NEW YORK - A foodservice partnership is bringing us a unique take on the New Year. Fast-casual chain Just Salad has announced its limited-edition "Dirt Candy" vegan salad, created by James Beard-nominated Chef Amanda Cohen, in honor of Veganuary. 

"Embarking on this Veganuary journey with Just Salad is a thrilling fusion of culinary passions and a shared food ethos," said Chef Cohen. "Our collaboration stems from a mutual dedication to redefining dining experiences through plant-based innovation and sustainable practices. I'm excited to offer their customers a new vegan recipe that incorporates some of my favorite flavors and ingredients." 

Now available in-store, online, and in-app across all Just Salad locations nationwide through the end of this month, the exclusive dish launches as part of the chain’s new chef-designed winter menu.

As a press release explained, the salad adds two limited-time-only toppings—sweet Pepperoncini and buttery Castelvetrano Olives—to Just Salad's ingredient offerings.

• Dirt Candy: Extra Crisp Romaine + Arugula, Organic Sesame Tofu, Sliced Cucumber, Shaved Broccoli, Tajin^® Spiced Pumpkin Seeds, Sliced Pepperoncini, Castelvetrano Olives
• Creamy Vegan Ranch: Veganaise, Nutritional Yeast, Minced Garlic, Lemon Juice, White Vinegar, Salt, Chopped Parsley, Water

"It was an honor to partner with Chef Cohen, a pioneer in the vegetable-forward movement who continues to be a creative force in the culinary industry," said Jhonny Castro, Culinary Director at Just Salad. "We're proud to offer our guests a Michelin-star experience through the partnership that embodies our passion for flavorful, plant-forward food and commitment to quality ingredients."

Rolling out alongside the "Dirt Candy" Salad, Just Salad's new winter menu includes five seasonally-inspired recipes to delight consumers, including:

• Mediterranean Bowl
• Maple Crispy Chicken
• Winter Harvest
• Avo Crunch Bowl
• Seasonal Soup Special: Broccoli Cheddar

To read more about this salad-centric alliance, click here. And for more industry news, stay here on ANUK. 

Just Salad