When it comes to food, few names are as iconic as Julia Child and Gordon Ramsay. Julia, with her timeless wisdom and love for simple, wholesome cooking, and Gordon, with his fiery passion and modern culinary flair, represent two generations of chefs who have shaped the way we think about food. As we explore the food trends set to transform family meals in 2025, it’s worth asking: What would these two superstars of the culinary world have to say? From Julia’s emphasis on fresh ingredients to Gordon’s no-nonsense approach to cooking, their insights offer a unique lens through which to view these emerging trends. Let’s dive in and see how their philosophies align with the future of family dining.
As we step into 2025, the way families eat continues to evolve, driven by innovation, sustainability, a growing desire for convenience and the cost of eggs. From tech-driven grocery shopping to plant-based family dinners, food trends this year are not just about what’s on the plate. In 2025 trends will be about making mealtime more affordable, easier, healthier, and more enjoyable for everyone.
As Julia Child once said, “Cooking is like love; it should be entered into with abandon or not at all.” This sentiment rings true in 2025, as families embrace new ways to connect over food while navigating busy schedules and tight budgets. Let’s explore five food trends that are set to transform family meals this year.
1. The Rise of “Ugly Produce”
In 2025, imperfect fruits and vegetables are no longer seen as second-rate. Thanks to companies like Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market, “ugly produce” is making its way into family kitchens, offering affordable and sustainable options for health-conscious households.
This trend is a game-changer for families looking to stretch their grocery budgets. According to a recent study, nearly 40% of food produced in the U.S. goes to waste, much of it due to cosmetic imperfections. By embracing “ugly produce,” families can save money while reducing their environmental footprint.
Practical Tip: Look for subscription boxes or local grocery stores that offer discounted imperfect produce. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the idea that beauty isn’t everything—especially when it comes to food.
The “ugly produce” movement isn’t just a passing fad—it’s a response to a growing awareness of food waste and sustainability. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 1.3 billion tons of food are wasted globally each year, much of it due to cosmetic imperfections. By choosing imperfect fruits and vegetables, families can play a small but meaningful role in reducing this waste.
Retailers and subscription services have made it easier than ever to access “ugly produce.” For example, Imperfect Foods reports that their customers save an average of 30% on grocery bills by opting for imperfect items. This trend is particularly appealing to families, who often face the dual challenges of tight budgets and the need to provide nutritious meals.
Practical Tip: Get creative with “ugly produce” by turning slightly bruised apples into applesauce, overripe bananas into banana bread, or misshapen carrots into a hearty soup. These small changes can make a big difference in your grocery budget and your environmental impact.
2. Meal Kits for Picky Eaters
Meal kits have been a staple for busy families for years, but 2025 is seeing a surge in kits designed specifically for picky eaters. Brands are now offering customizable options that cater to kids’ preferences while sneaking in nutritious ingredients.
These kits take the guesswork out of meal planning, saving parents time and reducing the stress of dinner battles. As Gordon Ramsay once quipped, “Cooking is about passion, so it may look slightly temperamental in a way that it’s too assertive to the naked eye.” With meal kits, families can channel that passion into creating meals that everyone will love.
Practical Tip: Start with a kit that offers familiar flavors, then gradually introduce new ingredients to expand your child’s palate.
The “ugly produce” movement isn’t just a passing fad—it’s a response to a growing awareness of food waste and sustainability. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 1.3 billion tons of food are wasted globally each year, much of it due to cosmetic imperfections. By choosing imperfect fruits and vegetables, families can play a small but meaningful role in reducing this waste.
Retailers and subscription services have made it easier than ever to access “ugly produce.” For example, Imperfect Foods reports that their customers save an average of 30% on grocery bills by opting for imperfect items. This trend is particularly appealing to families, who often face the dual challenges of tight budgets and the need to provide nutritious meals.
Practical Tip: Get creative with “ugly produce” by turning slightly bruised apples into applesauce, overripe bananas into banana bread, or misshapen carrots into a hearty soup. These small changes can make a big difference in your grocery budget and your environmental impact.
3. Freezer-Friendly Make-Ahead Meals
With busy schedules becoming the norm, families are turning to freezer-friendly meals that can be prepped in advance. Think casseroles, soups, and even breakfast burritos that can be pulled out and reheated in minutes.
This trend isn’t just about convenience; it’s also a smart way to stretch your grocery budget. By cooking in bulk and freezing portions, families can reduce food waste and avoid the temptation of pricey takeout.
Practical Tip: Dedicate a Sunday afternoon to meal prep. Involve the whole family to make it a fun and productive activity.
Freezer-friendly meals are a lifesaver for busy families, and 2025 is seeing a surge in creative recipes designed specifically for the freezer. From breakfast burritos to veggie-packed lasagnas, these meals can be prepped in advance and stored for weeks, making them perfect for hectic weeknights.
According to a survey by the American Frozen Food Institute, 85% of households rely on frozen foods to save time and reduce food waste. By cooking in bulk and freezing portions, families can enjoy homemade meals without the daily hassle of cooking from scratch.
Practical Tip: Invest in high-quality freezer-safe containers and label them with the date and contents. This will help you stay organized and ensure your meals stay fresh.
4. Plant-Based Family Dinners
Plant-based eating is no longer just for vegans. In 2025, more families are incorporating meatless meals into their weekly routines, whether for health, environmental, or budgetary reasons.
From lentil Bolognese to black bean tacos, these dishes are proving that plant-based eating can be both kid-friendly and delicious. As Julia Child famously said, “You don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces—just good food from fresh ingredients.”
Practical Tip: Start with one meatless meal per week and gradually increase as your family gets used to the idea.
Plant-based eating is gaining traction among families, driven by concerns about health, the environment, and rising meat prices. A report by the Good Food Institute found that 60% of U.S. households purchased plant-based foods in 2024, with families leading the charge.
Dishes like lentil Bolognese, black bean tacos, and chickpea curry are proving that plant-based meals can be both delicious and kid-friendly. Many families are also experimenting with meat substitutes like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, which offer the taste and texture of meat without the environmental impact.
Practical Tip: Start with familiar dishes and swap out the meat for plant-based alternatives. For example, try using lentils instead of ground beef in your spaghetti sauce or tofu instead of chicken in your stir-fry.
5. Tech-Driven Grocery Shopping
The way families shop for groceries is changing, thanks to apps and services that make it easier than ever to stick to a budget. From digital coupons to AI-powered meal planners, technology is helping families save time and money.
For example, apps like Mealime and Whisk allow users to plan meals, generate shopping lists, and even order groceries with just a few taps. As one tech-savvy parent shared, “I used to spend hours planning meals and clipping coupons. Now, I can do it all in 10 minutes on my phone.”
Practical Tip: Explore apps that integrate meal planning, grocery lists, and budgeting tools to streamline your shopping process.
Plant-based eating is gaining traction among families, driven by concerns about health, the environment, and rising meat prices. A report by the Good Food Institute found that 60% of U.S. households purchased plant-based foods in 2024, with families leading the charge.
Dishes like lentil Bolognese, black bean tacos, and chickpea curry are proving that plant-based meals can be both delicious and kid-friendly. Many families are also experimenting with meat substitutes like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, which offer the taste and texture of meat without the environmental impact.
Practical Tip: Start with familiar dishes and swap out the meat for plant-based alternatives. For example, try using lentils instead of ground beef in your spaghetti sauce or tofu instead of chicken in your stir-fry.
2025 is all about making family meals easier, healthier, and more affordable.
Whether you’re embracing “ugly produce,” trying a plant-based recipe, or experimenting with meal kits, there’s something for every family to explore. As we look ahead, it’s clear that the way families eat is changing in exciting and meaningful ways. These trends all offer practical solutions for busy households while promoting sustainability and health.
As we navigate the challenges and joys of feeding a family, let’s remember Julia Child’s timeless advice: “No one is born a great cook; one learns by doing.” So, why not start today? Try one of these trends and see how it transforms your family’s mealtime routine. Or better yet, as Gordon Ramsay once said, “Good food is very often, even most often, simple food.” By incorporating these trends into your family’s routine, you can simplify mealtime, save money, and create lasting memories around the dinner table. So, why not give one of these trends a try? Your family—and your wallet—will thank you.