Indulge in traditional New Orleans dishes at the French Quarter Festival while also enjoying healthier options from the Eat Fit menu. Created by Ochsner Health, the menu offers nutritious choices for festival-goers, including lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. With an orange 'Eat Fit' sticker to identify these options and the free Eat Fit app providing nutritional facts, attendees can make food choices that align with their dietary needs. From shrimp and grits to jerk chicken, there's something for everyone to savor at this year's festival.
Indulge in a Flavorful Experience at the French Quarter Festival
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If you're planning to attend the upcoming French Quarter Festival from April 11-14, get ready to satisfy your taste buds with a wide array of traditional New Orleans dishes. From fried shrimp and catfish to stuffed crabs and hot sausage po-boys, there's something to please every craving. But what if you're looking for healthier options or lighter fare?
( Credit to: Nola )
Introducing the Eat Fit menu, a nutritious and delicious alternative developed by Molly Kimball, the director of nutrition for Ochsner Health. This menu offers festival-goers a selection of dishes that are not only lighter but also suitable for individuals with specific health conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol issues, or diabetes.
With the diverse culinary landscape of New Orleans, it's important to include healthy dining choices. Kenneth Spears, the food and beverage director for the festival, understands the significance of catering to a wider range of dietary preferences and health needs. The addition of the Eat Fit menu allows attendees to make food choices that align with their personal preferences and dietary needs.
Discover the Delicious and Nutritious Eat Fit Menu
( Credit to: Nola )
The Eat Fit menu at the French Quarter Festival consists of lean proteins, vegetables, plant-based fats, and whole grains while minimizing white carbs and added sugar. This menu offers a variety of healthier options that are just as tasty as the traditional fare.
( Credit to: Nola )
Fourteen vendors will be participating in the Eat Fit menu, offering their unique creations at various locations throughout the festival. These vendors have carefully crafted dishes that are not only lighter but also packed with flavor.
Here are some of the vendors and their mouthwatering Eat Fit menu items:
- Jax Lot: Ma Momma's House of Cornbread, Chicken, and Waffles - Three whole golden naked deep-fried whole wings served with hot sauce. Theaudric's Real Clever Cuisine: Matcha filé gumbo and Brussel Voorhesse.
- Jackson Square: Jacques-Imo's Cafe: Shrimp and grits; crab, artichoke, and citrus salad. Nori Guys: Spicy tuna handroll or bowl. Paco's Tacos: Rock Tacos with birria, onions, cilantro, and consommé; traditional corn tacos. Tujague’s Restaurant: Tujague's original shrimp remoulade. Plum Street Snoballs: Sugar-free raspberry and sugar-free pink Lemonade.
- Kohlmeyer Lawn: Fritai Nola: Grilled shrimp pikliz. Pho Bang: Tofu with a smidge of housemade sauce. Walker's Southern Style BBQ: Cochon de lait served over cabbage. Monday Restaurant: Whole snapper.
- Palm Lawn: 14 Parishes Jamaican Restaurant: Jerk chicken. Second location for Plum Street Snoballs; Sugar-free raspberry and sugar-free pink lemonade sno-balls. TJ Gourmet: Alligator sausage kabob with zydeco sauce.
With the orange "Eat Fit" sticker placed next to each menu item, festival-goers can easily identify the healthier options. Additionally, the free Eat Fit app will provide nutritional facts about the food items offered by the participating vendors, making it even easier to make informed choices.
Maintain Your Health and Enjoy the Festivities
While indulging in the French Quarter Festival, it's important to prioritize your health. Molly Kimball, the creator of the Eat Fit menu, offers some tips to maintain overall well-being while enjoying the festivities.
Start your day with a nutritious, light, and lean meal to sustain your energy throughout the day. By sharing favorite dishes with friends, you can enjoy the festival food while being mindful of your overall health. Don't forget to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in the New Orleans heat.
With the introduction of the Eat Fit menu, the French Quarter Festival aims to cater to a wider range of dietary preferences and health needs. Whether you're in the mood for traditional New Orleans fare or seeking healthier options, there's something for everyone to savor at this year's festival.