Taste sensations
With more passengers wanting healthier food options when they fly, salads are having a moment. But it’s not just enough to deliver on functionality anymore – the taste and flavour needs to pack a punch too. Consumers want excitement, with global flavours and ingredients that will help them feel better during their journey. Salads that can be served hot or cold could be a popular choice in the future if they deliver on taste and provide enough sustenance for passengers to feel fulfilled.
Healthy choices
The benefits of an inflight salad can’t be ignored. Not everyone wants to eat the more processed, reheated meals that are typically served onboard. Light, digestible salads are more beneficial for passengers who are seated for long periods.
Many salad staples have a high water content, which helps to keep passengers hydrated. Fresh vegetables and fruit support overall health and wellbeing and are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Being low in calories salads can also help passengers avoid feeling sluggish during a flight.
Key ingredients
Foods like beetroot, grilled peppers and cucumber are great for hydration. Quinoa, lentils and edamame provide vitamins and are rich in protein, aiding energy levels. Miso, hummus and cabbage support gut health, which can be interrupted by travel. For reducing swelling or discomfort, Sriracha, mustard and soy have anti-inflammatory properties.
Chickpeas, beans and pesto are rich in nutrients to support immune systems, which can be weakened by stress and exposure to recycled cabin air. A balanced mix of ingredients provides protein, fibre and healthy fats, helping passengers feel more energised. Ensuring ingredients are fresh at the time of assembly, and are able to withstand the challenges of transit and storage, is also key to a salad’s appeal.
Dress to impress
A dressing can make or break a salad. Never overdo it – dressings should be kept light, punchy and flavourful to really deliver. Additions such as mustard, cider vinegar, yoghurt and chicory root syrup can contribute positively to gut health.
Top trends
Salads packed with protein, gut-friendly ingredients and immune-boosting superfoods are taking off. Bold colours, fresh textures and visually-striking ingredients make salads more appealing while ensuring they stay fresh and appetising at altitude.
Fusing a creative mix of culinary influences brings unexpected yet harmonious flavour pairings. Inspired by world cuisines, salads can now showcase bold spices, regional dressings and authentic ingredients that cater to diverse passenger palates.
