West Ottawa... Food For Thought

February 2022 - Food Service News

Valentine's Day Promotions || Thursday, February 10th

Red Food Lunch Takeover

When you get school lunch on February 10th you might notice something a little different. The elementary & middle schools will be serving a red themed entrée, red fruits, red veggies, and a red treat to celebrate Valentine's Day! The High Schools will be celebrating with delicious red inspired fruits & veggies on the salad bars.

High School's Cupid Floats

Visit the snack bar at South or the WO Zone at North to purchase a Cupid Float for only $2.25 during lunch time! This float is festively created with 7UP, froyo, a licorice straw, and whip cream.


We are so excited to serve you!

Valentine Candy Jar Give Away

Every student who eats a school lunch on Thursday, February 10th will be entered in a drawing to win a jar full of candy hearts!

National Cook a Sweet Potato Day || Tuesday, February 22nd

Sweet Potato Fries

In honor of national cook a sweet potato day sweet potato fries will be served at all schools with lunch on Tuesday, February 22nd.


Did you know sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin A & vitamin C? They also offer a greater burst of energy compared to other vegetables because they are higher in carbohydrates which is your bodies preferred energy source!

Try Day Friday || Friday, February 25th

Fresh Parsnips

Are you excited to try something new?! Parsnips will be served at all schools on Friday, February 25th.


Parsnips are part of the carrot family. They are grown in Michigan and are harvested in the fall. Parsnips can be stored in a cold and humid area for up to 6 months. They provide potassium, vitamin C, and folate which are all nutrients needed for healthy bodies. Look below for a fun new recipe to make in your kitchen with parsnips!

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Roasted Parsnip Fries

Try a new recipe at home with your students!


Ingredients

  • 3 lbs parsnips
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425F.
  2. Cut parsnips into evenly sized matchsticks.
  3. Place in a large bowl and toss with the olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Evenly distribute the parsnips on a baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they have a little room on the sides to brown and caramelize.
  5. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, until the parsnips are starting to turn golden brown on the edges. Use a spatula to stir parsnips to redistribute, then roast for another 10-15 minutes or until tender and golden.
  6. Serve warm and enjoy!


Note: For a sweeter flavor substitute 2 tbsp of garlic powder for maple syrup, cinnamon, or allspice.

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Did you know that West Ottawa Food Service does catering?

Our kitchen manager, Noelle, has a culinary degree and can help you with all your catering needs! Email Noelle at whitlatchn@westottawa.net or call her office at 616-786-2102.