Pick your plate

Your plate is the canvas and your food is the paint. Before you start creating gorgeous, edible art, take a moment to think about the shape, colour and size of your plate. It will have a direct impact on your meal.

Add a splash of colour

Balance brown foods such as chicken and meat with something colourful, such as greens or other brightly coloured veggies. If you’re planning chicken adobo with cauliflower rice, for example, serve it with broccoli and perhaps a few crispy and bright orange pumpkin slices.

Play with texture

Varying texture not only excites your taste buds, but it also pleases the eye!

Think about a plain pecan pâté vs a pâté served with crispy onions and a drizzle of reduced balsamic – or even a splash of oil on the plate. Adding a sauce and something crunchy on top makes for a far more interesting presentation.

Odd is interesting

While a lot of people tend to plate up an even number of bites, odd groupings of three, five, or even seven are more visually appealing. Something about the lack of balance peaks our interest.

Aim high

Height adds dimension and depth to a plate. So, after your main protein is placed, think about ways you can layer. Adding a mound of airy alfalfa sprouts, crispy onions or dehydrated carrots are just a few ideas!

Great garnishes

Picture a juicy salmon fillet resting on top of a round, thin layer of pesto.

Now, imagine a carefully placed sprig of cilantro decorating the plate. Doesn’t that make the dish pop?

Adding a simple yet appealing garnish is another great way to elevate your plate. But, when adding a garnish, make sure it has a purpose and the taste pairs well with your food.

Nealy Fischer, founder of The Flexible Chef food website, is the author of the forthcoming cookbook, Food You Want For The Life You Crave.

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