In recent times, interest in vegan and vegetarian cuisine has been on the up and up. Although the reasons are manifold, one thing is for sure: this is no passing craze. Making sure your restaurant menu includes enticing vegan and vegetarian options is no longer a niche concern: it’s a must. Pasta and gnocchi are versatile ingredients that are easily customizable for restaurants looking to add some extra appeal to their meat-free options. Join Olivieri® Foodservice as we explore the ways in which you can revamp your menu to cater to this new trend in food culture.
Why Is Veganism and Vegetarianism Growing in Popularity?
A survey carried out in 2020 outlined that 4.6% of Canadians identified as vegan or vegetarian, which equates to 1.8 million people. In addition, a large number of Canadians are opting for flexitarian diets, which promote only moderate and occasional consumption of meat and fish. Here are some of the reasons for this shift:
- Health benefits: Many people choose plant-based diets to improve overall health and energy levels.
- Environmental concerns: Cutting down on animal products helps reduce carbon emissions and conserve resources.
- Greater accessibility: More plant-based options are now available in shops and restaurants than ever before.
- Evolution of the cuisine: Vegan and vegetarian culture has blossomed in recent years, with a wide variety of vegan dishes becoming popular with non-vegans as well as vegans, as this Skillet Gnocchi Vegan Buddha Bowl amply demonstrates.
Make the Most of Your Veggie Options
You may be wondering: how can restaurants adapt to this trend? Here are some basic principles that will pave the way for a more diverse and appealing menu that results in repeat custom. Think about it: whether it’s a wedding or a team bonding social event, one of the first things organizers seek to find out is whether there are people attending with specific dietary preferences. By adhering to these basic principles, your restaurant operation will be a viable option.
Move Beyond Basic Substitutions
Many menus fall into the trap of offering only simple meat replacements or small side dishes for plant-based diners. Instead, focus on developing complete, satisfying meals built around plant-based ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, black beans, tofu, and tempeh. When meat-free dishes feel intentional rather than an afterthought, guests are more likely to order them — regardless of dietary preference.
Elevate Flavour with Creativity
Plant-based dishes should shine with bold flavours and diverse textures. Spices, fresh herbs, citrus, and house-made sauces can transform simple ingredients into standout menu items. When flavour is the star, diners won’t miss the meat: this Vegetarian Roasted Zucchini Lasagna Recipe is proof of that!
Make Menu Labelling Clear
Clear communication matters to guests navigating dietary restrictions. Mark vegan (VG) and vegetarian (V) items directly on your menu so diners can immediately find suitable choices. Staff should also be trained to answer ingredient questions accurately and confidently, especially around hidden animal products like dairy, eggs, honey, or fish sauce. Transparency builds trust and prevents confusion, making for a more comfortable dining experience.
Use Smart Ingredient Planning
Plant-based staples such as beans, grains, root vegetables, and seasonal produce are cost-effective and flexible ingredients. Building dishes around locally sourced Canadian vegetables not only supports regional growers but also ties into sustainability values many diners share. Seasonal rotations allow you to experiment with new flavours while keeping menus fresh and exciting without increasing food costs.
Offer Easy Customization
Flexibility goes a long way when catering to mixed dietary groups. Pasta is the perfect ingredient for creating customizable menus, granting your patrons the freedom to design their own dishes according to their preferences.
Promote Your Plant-Based Choices
Too often, vegan and vegetarian additions to menus feel like an afterthought. Show some pride in your veggie options. Use your website, social media, and printed materials to highlight your meat-free offerings. Instead of framing dishes around what’s missing, describe them in ways that emphasize flavour, freshness, and creativity. Appealing descriptions and mouthwatering photos encourage diners who might not normally order vegan or vegetarian dishes to give them a try.
Keeping Up with the Latest Dining Trends in Canada
In an ever-changing world, keeping your finger on the pulse is essential for the success of any business, and this is particularly relevant for the culinary arts. The term ‘foody’ is no longer a niche concept. Canadian diners are informed and epicurious patrons who expect more from their dining experience. Luckily, with Olivieri® Foodservice by your side, your business will never be short of vegetarian-friendly pasta and sauce options to adapt to these changes. Visit our products section for details.