...details that make a difference

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Part 1: Mix Shapes, Colors and Textures

The most basic element of food presentation starts with color. Food is naturally beautiful. I love going to the grocery store and seeing all the different varieties of products that are available. Walking into the produce section for me is like an painter looking at their pallet of colors. My canvas just happens to be a white dinner plate.


Have you ever really looked at your foods? Do you ever notice the variety of patterns and textures that show up? The way that lettuce opens up is just like that of a flower. The seeds in a pomegranate are like little red jewels bursting with flavor. The perfect circle of little black seeds that surround the white center of a bright green kiwi is art. The next time you are at the store take a moment and really look at the foods nature has created for us. Think about combining foods with different shapes, colors and textures on the same plate. Try cutting fruits and vegetables into strips, rings, triangles, and cubes or use a diagonal cut. Add a splash of color, contrasting texture, and flavor by sprinkling a few toasted sesame seeds, almonds or crispy bacon over cooked vegetables. If your plate will contain multiple elements, use an odd number rather than an even number; three stuffed cherry tomatoes will always present better then four. For ultimate color enhancement when cooking vegetables use techniques like steaming, stir-frying, and grilling to keep colors bright and textures firm this will also assist in retaining the most nutrients. 

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