The Food ChannelÆ (foodchannel.com) recently released its top 10 side dish trends, the latest in its regular trend reports prepared in conjunction with CultureWaves, Mintel International and the International Food Futurists.
The side dish trends, sponsored by McCainÆ Harvest SplendorÆ Sweet Potato Selections, include: "Intentionally Seasonal," which indicates fresh-picked fruits and vegetables, in season, are all the rage; "Grow Your Own," referring to everything from backyard to community gardens; "A Toast to Roasted"--as the name implies, roasted is the new grilled and the new fried; and "You Say Potato," healthier and more interesting than traditional French fries, the new potato side dishes are most likely to mean sweet potatoes.