Bright, Bold, and Born for Summer

Innovative Small Plates with Seasonal Ingredients

With warmer weather on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to brighten things up in the kitchen and on the plate. Summer menus are all about bright flavors, colorful presentations, and ingredients that feel refreshing and full of life. With Fresh Origins® microgreens, edible flowers, and specialty items, chefs can create beautiful, vibrant small plates that bring seasonal energy to every bite. From tangy herbs to crisp greens and floral finishes, these summer-ready favorites are designed to elevate every course.

Perfect Picks for Mother’s Day Brunch:

For thoughtful bites that deliver summer flavor and flair, explore this selection of Fresh Origins® ingredients. Whether you’re building a seasonal tasting menu or crafting showstopping appetizers, these are the essentials you’ll want in your rotation:

Micro Intensity Mix™

Bold, colorful, and full of contrast, Micro Intensity Mix is a flavor-packed blend of microgreens that instantly elevates presentation and taste. With peppery, citrusy, and herbaceous notes, it’s a natural fit for fresh and chilled crudos, ceviche, and tartare. Find more information about Micro Intensity Mix™ here.

Pair With: Sweet and spicy ahi tuna tartare, citrus-dressed scallops, and lobster rolls.

Micro Intensity Mix™ with Oregon Dungeness Crab, Blood Orange Tostada, and Guacamole
Chef Ricardo Antunez of Pura Vida - Portland, Oregon

Micro Citrus Mix™

Zesty and aromatic, Micro Citrus Mix™ brings a bright, clean finish to summer dishes. Its unique citrus notes from Micro Sorrel, Micro Tangerine Lace™, Micro Basil Lemon™, and more make it ideal for cold dishes where freshness matters most. Add to summer salads, fruit-forward plates, or delicate seafood. Find more information about Micro Citrus Mix™ here.

Pair With: Chilled crab salad, grapefruit and burrata, and watermelon ceviche.

Micro Sorrel

With a natural lemon tang and smooth oval leaves, Micro Sorrel adds acidity and depth without overpowering a dish or drink. Use it to contrast creamy elements or complement garden vegetables. Find more information about Micro Sorrel here.

Pair With: Whipped goat cheese spread with crudité, fresh gazpacho, roasted beet salads

Vibrant Ingredients for Seasonal Plates

Small plates may be bite-sized, but with the right ingredients, they pack a huge punch. By incorporating vibrant microgreens and edible blooms from Fresh Origins®, chefs can capture the essence of summer in every dish. These thoughtful additions turn simple preparations into colorful, crave-worthy creations that keep diners coming back for more.

Cucumber Flower

Nothing says summer like cucumber. These charming blossoms offer a light cucumber essence and a fun pop of color, making them a top choice for warm-weather plates and cocktails alike. Find more information about Cucumber Flower here.

Pair With: Aguachile, heirloom tomato salad, and gin-based cocktails.

Edible Flowers Cucumber Flower with Shawarma Spiced Heirloom Tomato, Charred White Peach, Plum, Peanut Crumble, Queso Fresco, and Tomato-Cilantro Water
Chef Karlo Evaristo

Micro Marigold™

These golden blooms bring vibrant color and subtle citrusy spice to summer plates. With cheerful yellow and orange petals, Micro Marigold is an ideal finishing touch for grilled or chilled appetizers. Find more information about Micro Marigold™ here.

Pair With: Grilled shrimp skewers, fresh corn salad, grilled eggplant dip

Petite® Hearts on Fire™

With eye-catching red veining and a deliciously tart citrus flavor, Petite® Hearts on Fire™ adds drama and depth. It works beautifully in earthy, summery dishes and makes a statement on any small plate. Find more information about Petite® Hearts on Fire™ here.

Pea Shoots Gold

Sweet, delicate, and nutty, Pea Shoots Gold offers visual brightness and a light, fresh flavor that screams summer. Their sunny hue brings a joyful vibe to summer rolls, tartines, or skewers. Find more information about Pea Shoots Gold here.

Pair With: Fresh spring rolls, beef tartare, and lemon asparagus tartines.