Learn how to enhance the visual appeal of your culinary creations with simple yet effective techniques that promise to transform your dishes into works of art.

My culinary creations emphasize playing with colors and layers using only seasonal ingredients. I utilize diverse cooking techniques to create textures like smooth, crunchy, and tender, enhancing both taste and visual appeal. By showcasing the natural beauty of seasonal produce through thoughtful presentation, I aim to create an immersive dining experience. These techniques result in a colorful, well-garnished, and creatively plated masterpiece that delights both the eyes and the palate.

What do you do if your culinary creations lack visual appeal?

Visual appeal is a critical component of culinary arts, as it significantly influences a diner's anticipation and enjoyment of a meal. If you find that your culinary creations are not quite Instagram-worthy, don't fret. There are several techniques you can employ to enhance the aesthetic quality of your dishes. Whether you're a budding chef or a seasoned kitchen pro, understanding the importance of presentation and learning how to improve it can make a world of difference in your culinary pursuits.

1 Color Contrast

When your dish looks bland, playing with color contrast can turn it around. Think of your plate as a canvas; adding colorful ingredients like fresh herbs, vibrant vegetables, or even edible flowers can create a visually striking contrast. Not only does this technique catch the eye, but it also suggests a balanced and nutritious meal. Remember, eaters feast with their eyes first, so make your plates pop with a spectrum of colors that complement each other.

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Hana Dreiling

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Try using small sifters or a microblade zester to dust a component on the dish. After plating, try using a micro-blade zester to shave freeze dried fruit such as strawberry to dust it with a bright pop / color contrast.

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2 Plating Techniques

Mastering plating techniques is essential for presenting food that looks as good as it tastes. Start with a clean, appropriate-sized plate and consider the rule of thirds to create a balanced layout. Use tools like squeeze bottles for sauces and ring molds for stacking to achieve a professional look. Experiment with different placements, such as off-center or diagonal lines, to find what showcases your dish best. Precision and care in plating can elevate even the simplest meal.

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Moussa SYLLA
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My culinary creations emphasize playing with colors and layers using only seasonal ingredients. I utilize diverse cooking techniques to create textures like smooth, crunchy, and tender, enhancing both taste and visual appeal. By showcasing the natural beauty of seasonal produce through thoughtful presentation, I aim to create an immersive dining experience. These techniques result in a colorful, well-garnished, and creatively plated masterpiece that delights both the eyes and the palate.

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Prakash Niroula

Executive Chef at Compass Group USA: Morrison at Wesley Tehaleh
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Think about placement of the components on the plate. Consider having an ample height of the food which can be more visual & appealing. For example if you have nice seared meat or fish then have sauce on the bottom of the plate, let the seared meat or fish speak for itself; don’t cover the beauty. Always have pre planning before plating the dishes. Have a sketch, feel how it looks. How the color patterns are aligned to each other. Make a plate to be remembered.

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Hana Dreiling

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Plate with intentionality towards the "first-bite". So ask yourself, how does this plating effect both the presentation and how you interact with the first bite.

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3 Garnishing Wisely

Garnishes should be more than an afterthought; they can be the element that takes your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Use garnishes that complement the flavor profile of your meal and add texture. A sprig of fresh herbs, a sprinkle of seeds, or a drizzle of infused oil can make all the difference. Be mindful not to overcrowd the plate, as the garnish is there to enhance, not overpower.

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Hana Dreiling

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Garnishes can also affect the aroma of the dish. I like to garnish with flavors or herbs already incorporated or cooked in, keeping it intentional. Some herbs like coriander, can be incorporated in a dish both as a spice but also as a beautiful garnish from the coriander flowers.

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Prakash Niroula

Executive Chef at Compass Group USA: Morrison at Wesley Tehaleh
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It’s very important to have proper garnish on the dish. Couple pieces cherry tomatoes play an important role on top of nice blanched green broccoli florets. Sometimes a pinch of nice herbs on top of braised dish elevates it to the next. There are so many ways to make dishes looking fabulous by having a good garnishes but same time keep in mind that the garnish is complimenting the main dish & everything on the plate are well versed like a poem.

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4 Texture Balance

Texture is an often-underestimated aspect of food presentation. A visually appealing dish offers a balance of textures, creating an inviting sensory experience. Crisp vegetables, crunchy toppings, or creamy sauces can add depth to your creations. Pay attention to the mouthfeel each component brings and aim for a variety that stimulates the palate and the eyes alike.

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5 Creative Serving

Sometimes the vessel in which you serve your food can be as impactful as the food itself. Consider unconventional items like slate tiles, wooden boards, or even jars for a unique touch. The right choice can complement your culinary theme and add an extra layer of visual interest. However, ensure that your serving ware doesn't overshadow the food and that it aligns with the dish's character.

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Prakash Niroula

Executive Chef at Compass Group USA: Morrison at Wesley Tehaleh
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Make sure the serving vessel adds some color contrast too. If the dish is darker then consider using turquoise or lighter green color serving vessel. Think outside the box, food presentation can be elevated by using leaves as a background on the plate such as banana leaves, lemon leaves & edible flowers, shaved veg/ fruits etc can be used as enhancing components. But just make sure when using these ingredients your dish should be matched within & it should not be appearing wired.

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6 Lighting Matters

Last but not least, proper lighting can dramatically alter the appearance of your food. Natural light is generally best for highlighting the true colors and textures of your dishes. If you're taking photos, indirect sunlight can help avoid harsh shadows. When serving food, ambient lighting that's not too dim or overly bright sets the mood and showcases your efforts effectively.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if your culinary creations lack visual appeal?

1

2

3

4

5

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1 Color Contrast

2 Plating Techniques

3 Garnishing Wisely

4 Texture Balance

5 Creative Serving

6 Lighting Matters

7 Here’s what else to consider

Culinary Education

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What do you do if your culinary creations lack visual appeal?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Color Contrast

2 Plating Techniques

3 Garnishing Wisely

4 Texture Balance

5 Creative Serving

6 Lighting Matters

7 Here’s what else to consider

Culinary Education

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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