As spring unfolds and the days become longer, our bodies naturally begin to crave lighter, fresher, and more vibrant foods that provide energy and vitality. Seafood, with its lean protein, heart-healthy fats, and nutrient-rich profile, stands out as one of the ultimate feel-good foods. That’s why American Dining Creations, in collaboration with Kelly’s Choice, is excited to highlight our fresh seafood offerings in our cafes this season, designed to nourish both body and mind.
The Science Behind Seafood’s Feel-Good Power
Seafood is a powerhouse of nutrition, providing key nutrients that support overall well-being. Shrimp, for example, is rich in high-quality protein while remaining low in calories and saturated fat. A 3-ounce serving delivers about 20 grams of protein, helping to maintain muscle mass and stabilize blood sugar.
Beyond protein, Seafood like shrimp provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are critical for heart, brain, and joint health. Omega-3s have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve cognitive function.² In addition, shrimp offers important minerals such as selenium, which plays a role in immune function and thyroid regulation.
It’s no wonder cultures with seafood-centric diets, like those surrounding the Mediterranean and Pacific Rim, are often linked to better longevity and overall health.
Seasonal Freshness Meets Global Inspiration
This spring, guests can experience the best seasonal, globally inspired seafood dishes in our cafes. These dishes capture the lighter flavors we crave this time of year. One standout is the Ginger Soy Shrimp Cakes with Arugula Salad, a dish that blends coastal freshness with bold, balanced flavor.
This offering features Gulf shrimp infused with ginger, soy, scallions, and miso, lightly crusted with sesame-panko breadcrumbs, and seared to golden perfection. The shrimp cakes are paired with a peppery arugula salad tossed in a house-made wasabi vinaigrette, adding just the right pop of brightness and spice.
The dish celebrates seasonal ingredients and embodies ADC and Kelly’s Choice’s shared mission. We remain committed to offering delicious, health-forward meals that make it easy for people to nourish themselves even on the busiest days.
More Than Just a Meal—A Springtime Mindset
Introducing seasonal seafood dishes into the cafeteria experience is about more than just what’s on the plate. It’s about encouraging a springtime refresh—an invitation to eat foods that energize, uplift, and fit naturally into a wellness-focused lifestyle.
Seafood dishes like the Ginger Soy Shrimp Cakes reflect a broader movement toward menus that are:
- Rich in nutrient density, not empty calories
- Globally inspired, offering exciting flavor profiles
- Aligned with the seasons, promoting fresher, lighter eating patterns
These seafood offerings, part of the spring innovation menu, are available for a limited time, reinforcing the importance of enjoying seasonal foods at their peak.
This spring, let seafood be your feel-good fuel—and discover how fresh, vibrant flavors can set the tone for a season of renewal.
References
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, FoodData Central. Shrimp, raw. Published April 1, 2019. Accessed April 25, 2025. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/152205/nutrients
- Mozaffarian D, Wu JH. Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease: effects on risk factors, molecular pathways, and clinical events. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2011;58(20):2047-2067. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2011.06.063
- Mashhadi NS, Ghiasvand R, Askari G, Hariri M, Darvishi L, Mofid MR. Anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of ginger in health and physical activity: review of current evidence. Int J Prev Med. 2013;4(Suppl 1):S36-S42.