While we still prioritize nutritionally sound meals, private program menus aren’t subject to USDA nutritional guidelines. We aren’t required to use whole-grain-rich pasta or bread or serve multiple vegetable subgroups (😊no beans required!) on these menus. They still include fruits and vegetables daily, with a variety throughout the week to prevent boredom. Private menus also aren’t calorie-bombs, but they aren’t restricted in their weekly calories, sodium and fat content.
Our team aims to create recipes that will appeal to a range of ages and tastes, first and foremost. Elementary to high school, kids almost universally like some entrees: pizza, chicken nuggets, walking tacos, orange chicken and hamburgers. When served on a private program menu, these meals might look a little different. The private program counterpart to the smoky cheeseburger on our public menus is a BBQ cheddar burger served with kettle chips or Cool Ranch Doritos rather than a side of CKC Good Food’s much-loved baked beans. Rather than a whole-grain-rich bun, the BBQ cheddar burger is served on a white bun. Our marinara meatballs are served with whole grain spaghetti on public menus and buttered parmesan noodles on private menus.
Unique to our private menu are entrees such as pulled pork burrito bowl, creamy chicken alfredo, fried chicken drumsticks and chili cheese dogs. Private programs can also choose to offer dessert and larger portion sizes (2 slices of pizza!), depending on their budgets.
Our team is currently developing and will soon test new recipes for next fall’s private menus. One idea under consideration is “Twin Faves Days,” when two favorite entrees will be served on one day. We know participation will be at its peak on those days!
If you have suggestions for additions to our private program menus, please let us know!