Seasonality and food compatibility for coffee offer two more reasons why customers might be tempted to order coffee. Whether they're dessert drinks, morning pick-me-ups, or coffee selections matched to your food menu, a little creativity can go a long way. Check out these seasonal coffee-based specialties.

Pairing Coffee With Food

A general guideline for pairing coffee with food is to make sure that the coffee flavor complements rather than overpowers the food.

Mild foods are best with mild coffees, while rich foods pair well with intense coffees.

Breakfast: South American coffees, which are generally more subtle coffees, are a good coplement to mild-flavored breakfast foods.

Traditional comfort foods: The nutty and cinnamon-like notes of mild coffees like Kona or Caribbean coffees complement snacks, doughnuts, cookies and desserts.

FULL FLAVORED: Nutty Caramel Latte combines Monin Hazelnut Syrup and Monin Caramel Sauce.

Photo: Monin Gourmet Flavorings

Rich desserts: The bold flavors of desserts pair well with the intense flavors of African coffees.

Citrusy dishes: Crisp-flavored Central American coffees are a good complement for these bright, flavorful foods.

Savory, buttery or salty dishes: Indonesian coffees with their full-bodied flavor pair well with these foods.

FEBRUARY SWEEPSTAKES

During February, the month of love, Coffee-Mate® has launched its “28 Days of Coffee-Mate Sweepstakes.” Running from February 1 through 28, this Feel the Love 2010 promotion offers foodservice operators a chance to win $10,000 in cash for their operation, and more. Visit www.CMFeelTheLove.com for contest rules and details.