Professional plating ideas to help you cook up a feast for the eyes – and the stomach

We eat with our eyes first – and food almost always tastes better when it looks good, chef Nealy Fischer says. Check out her tips to transform your dishes into gourmet meals
The art of cooking involves more than just making good tasting food. We eat with our eyes first and, to me, food almost always tastes better when it looks good. Don’t you agree?
Sure, you won’t always have extra time to focus on the overall look of your food. Especially if you have just finished a long day at work and you’re cooking only for yourself.
However, when planning a dinner party or cooking up a feast for family and friends, these pro plating tips can help transform your dish into a gourmet-looking meal.
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