Savor the Season: Embracing Plant-Forward Menus for Summer Events in Southern California
At TGIS Catering, we believe food isn’t just fuel—it’s a statement. A mood-setter. A source of joy and togetherness. And during the vibrant summer season in Southern California, nothing captures the essence of celebration quite like fresh, seasonal, plant-forward cuisine.
As catering trends shift toward more sustainable and health-conscious choices, we’re proud to be at the forefront of a movement that’s as flavorful as it is forward-thinking.
Whether you’re planning a sun-drenched garden wedding, an outdoor corporate retreat, or an upscale rooftop soirée, our plant-forward menus bring bold flavor, visual beauty, and seasonal abundance to every plate.
What Does Plant-Forward Mean to Us?
The term "plant-forward" is often misunderstood. At TGIS Catering, we define it as a culinary approach that puts plants—vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and herbs—at the center of the plate, without excluding high-quality animal products entirely.
Unlike strictly vegan or vegetarian menus, a plant-forward spread offers flexibility and balance. It allows us to craft dishes that appeal to every guest, from dedicated plant-based eaters to meat lovers looking for lighter, nutrient-rich options in the warmer months.
This philosophy is more than a trend—it’s a reflection of our commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Summer in Southern California: A Chef’s Dream
There’s no better time to celebrate the plant-forward lifestyle than summer in Southern California, when local farms and markets are overflowing with fresh produce.
Our chefs hand-select ingredients that are:
In season for optimal taste and nutrition
Locally sourced to reduce transportation and support California growers
Vibrant and colorful, enhancing the visual appeal of every dish
From heirloom tomatoes and juicy stone fruit to garden-fresh basil and vibrant leafy greens, summer gives us a canvas to create bright, seasonal menus that impress at first glance and first bite.
Where Plant-Forward Shines: Ideal Event Types
Our plant-forward menus are incredibly versatile, and they shine at a wide range of events, including:
Weddings – From elegant plated dinners to casual grazing tables, our seasonal vegetarian entrees, salads, and passed bites wow guests of all dietary preferences.
Corporate Events – Light, energizing, and mindful meals help attendees stay sharp during long meetings and outdoor networking events.
Social Gatherings & Milestone Celebrations – Birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions—we create flavorful spreads that encourage sharing and spark conversation.
Brand Activations & Launches – Plant-forward catering aligns with modern brand values and photographs beautifully for social media engagement.
Signature Dishes We Love This Season
Here’s a taste of the plant-forward favorites our clients are raving about this summer:
Grilled Vegetable Skewers with Romesco Sauce
A colorful medley of seasonal veggies marinated in garlic-herb oil, grilled to perfection, and served with a vibrant red pepper and almond romesco.
Charred Little Gem Lettuce with Lemon-Tahini Drizzle
A twist on the traditional Caesar, featuring flame-kissed little gem leaves, pickled shallots, crispy chickpeas, and a creamy citrus-tahini dressing.
Farro & Roasted Beet Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Nutty farro tossed with roasted beets, arugula, toasted pistachios, and bright citrus segments—finished with our house-made vinaigrette.
Portobello "Steaks" with Chimichurri
Savory grilled mushrooms topped with zesty chimichurri, served alongside roasted sweet potatoes and grilled broccolini.
Seasonal Fruit Tartlets
Buttery, crisp tart shells filled with vanilla bean pastry cream and crowned with the season’s best berries and stone fruit.
These dishes are just the beginning—we work closely with clients to customize menus based on guest preferences, dietary needs, and overall event vision.
Why Plant-Forward Is the Sustainable Choice
Our plant-forward commitment isn’t just about food—it’s also about the future.
Sourcing and preparing more plant-based ingredients helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water use, and energy consumption. It also aligns with the priorities of many of our corporate and eco-conscious clients who want their events to make an impact in more ways than one.
We’re proud to offer plant-forward options that look good, taste great, and do right by the planet—without compromising on flavor or presentation.
Experience Meets Innovation
With over 30 years of experience serving Southern California’s most memorable events, TGIS Catering has built a reputation for excellence, adaptability, and elevated presentation.
Our chefs are constantly pushing the boundaries of what plant-forward can be—innovating with textures, global flavors, and eye-catching design.
Whether you’re planning a three-course seated dinner or a festival-style tasting experience, our culinary team will work hand-in-hand with you to ensure every detail reflects your taste, goals, and guest experience.
Let’s Make Your Summer Event Deliciously Memorable
Planning a summer gathering in Los Angeles, Orange County, or beyond?
Let us bring the flavor.
We invite you to explore our plant-forward catering options and experience the joy of seasonal, sustainable food that brings people together.