K12 Bowls

Trendy, Speed-Scratch Bowls that Satisfy Students’ Quick-Serve Cravings

Students can be notoriously picky (you know that better than anyone else). But when it comes to quick-service restaurants, they can’t get enough.1 It’s at restaurants like these that bowl meals are big sellers. Bowls—typically a collection of proteins, grains or starches, and veggies—are popular today due to their novelty and notion of nutrition.

This is great news for your menu. Many K12 meals can easily translate to a bowl without relying on extra training or labor. You can even customize ingredients you have on hand to fit your menu, creating a meal that’s easy to make and exciting for your kids. Here are 5 ideas to get you started.

Bowls are a great way to incorporate other trends into your menu, like international flavors and comfort foods.

Kung Pao with Diced White Turkey

Starch

White rice or brown rice

Vegetables

Bell pepper, onion, green onion, carrots, and zucchini

Optional Toppings

  • Kung pao sauce or another Asian sauce
  • Sunflower seeds, pepitos, or peanuts

California Baja Bowl with Diced Turkey Breast

Starch

Cilantro noodles, brown rice, white rice, or quinoa

Vegetables

  • Spicy elote mix or roasted fresh/ canned corn mix
  • Fresh avocado or guacamole
  • Chimichurri tomatoes, salsa, pico de gallo, or fresh/ canned tomatoes

Optional Toppings

Cilantro, parsley, or another green leafy herb

Tip: It’s okay to omit an ingredient if you don’t have it on hand.

Turkey Burrito Bowl with Taco Seasoned Ground Turkey

Starch

White rice, brown rice, or quinoa

Vegetables

  • Guacamole or avocado
  • Pico de gallo, salsa, or fresh/ canned tomatoes

 

Optional Toppings

  • Crispy tortilla strips or chips
  • Shredded cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, or cheese sauce
  • Mexican crema drizzle, sour cream, or Greek yogurt

Potato Bowl with Chunked and Shredded Turkey and Gravy

Starch

Mashed potatoes, diced potatoes, or tater tots

Vegetables

Fresh/canned/ frozen corn

Optional Toppings

Shredded cheese blend

Bowls are an excellent option if precautions restrict you from operating a salad bar or made-to-order station.

Breakfast-For-Lunch Bowl with Breakfast Turkey

Starch

Diced potatoes or tater tots

Vegetables

  • Green peppers and onions
  • Avocado

Optional Toppings

  • Shredded cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, or cheese sauce
  • Tortilla chips
  • Salsa

1 Piper Sandler, Taking Stock with Teens Survey, Fall 2020 Results

Good luck building your bowls! And remember, if you need any help, reach out to your rep for ideas and tips.

Email Sign-Up

Recipes, offers, tips and more.

Sign-up in the form below to receive ongoing updates from Jennie-O Foodservice.