By Lisa Craig, RD, PhD, LD You don't have to be a celebrity chef to make your meals visually appealing. Presenting a pleasing plate is a bit like creating fine art; think of your plate as a blank canvas. Balance a palette of different colors, shapes, textures, and flavors — it's the key to effective food presentation!
Experts offer these guidelines:
Keep It Simple
Keep your food arrangements simple while providing as much contrasting color and texture as possible.
Add Color With Fruits and Vegetables
If you follow the U.S. government's recommendations for healthy eating (at least 2 cups each of fruit and vegetables every day), you'll have a variety of colors and textures on your plate. And remember that, in general, the deeper the color of the food, the richer its nutrients.
Experiment With Shapes
Pay attention to the shape of the main food on your plate. Cut accompanying foods into different forms to provide variety. For example, carrots can be cut in long strips or as small circles.
Beat "Bland" by Mixing and Matching
Use contrasting color or texture to make foods that look bland more interesting. Sprinkle seeds or nuts over cooked vegetables for visual interest, crunch, and flavor. Drizzle fruit puree over vanilla pudding or white cake. Top an omelet with salsa.
Make Servings Look Bigger With Small, Simple Plates
Plates that have a small food basin but a large rim make a serving appear up to 50% larger than it really is, helping to keep portion sizes "in check." For best results, use plates that are white or off-white and have limited patterns.
Above all, use your imagination and have fun! When a nutritious meal is presented in an appealing way, family and friends are more likely to enjoy their food and stick with a healthy eating regimen.