As 2016 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the biggest food trends that have dominated the culinary scene throughout the year. From innovative ingredients to new cooking techniques, the food world has seen it all.

Let’s take a look at the top food trends of 2016.

1. Avocado Everything

This year, avocados took the world by storm, becoming a staple ingredient in almost every dish imaginable. From avocado toast to avocado ice cream, it seemed like there was no end to the avocado madness.

Avocado’s creamy texture and healthy fats made it a popular choice for health-conscious foodies.

2. Bowl Meals

Bowl meals, such as grain bowls and poke bowls, became a major trend in 2016. These customizable meals offered a variety of flavors and textures in one dish.

From quinoa to rice, and from fresh vegetables to protein-packed toppings, bowl meals satisfied both the taste buds and the appetite.

3. Fermented Foods

Fermented foods, such as kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha, gained popularity due to their rich flavor profiles and potential health benefits.

Fermentation was seen as a way to add depth and complexity to dishes, and many people embraced the trend by incorporating these foods into their daily diets.

4. Spiralized Vegetables

Spiralized vegetables became a hit among health-conscious individuals who were looking for pasta alternatives.

Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” became particularly popular, as they offered a low-carb, gluten-free option for those trying to cut back on refined grains.

5. Plant-based Proteins

In 2016, the demand for plant-based proteins skyrocketed. People were increasingly opting for options like tofu, tempeh, and seitan to satisfy their protein needs, rather than relying solely on animal products.

This shift was largely driven by environmental concerns and a desire for healthier, more sustainable diets.

6. Unconventional Ice Cream Flavors

Traditional flavors took a backseat in 2016 as ice cream shops started experimenting with more offbeat combinations. Unique flavors like charcoal, lavender, and matcha became go-to choices for adventurous ice cream lovers.

7. Alternative Grains

Gone are the days when wheat and rice dominated the grain scene. Alternative grains like quinoa, farro, and millet gained popularity in 2016 as more people looked for diverse and nutrient-rich alternatives to traditional staples.

8. Global Cuisine Mashups

2016 was the year of fusion cuisine. From Korean tacos to Indian-inspired pizzas, chefs got creative by combining flavors and techniques from different culinary traditions. These mashups resulted in exciting and unexpected taste experiences.

9. Cold-Pressed Juices

The cold-pressed juice trend continued to thrive in 2016. These nutrient-dense juices, made using a hydraulic press to extract the juice from fruits and vegetables, gained popularity for their health benefits and vibrant flavors.

10. Online Food Delivery

The rise of online food delivery apps revolutionized the way people enjoyed their meals in 2016.

With just a few taps on their smartphones, people could have restaurant-quality food delivered right to their doorstep, making dining in the new dining out.