Trainer to explain the elements of attractive and appealing food, including:
Shape
Food can be creatively scattered or in elegant compact servings
Repetition is an effective technique either such as laying several (odd numbers are best, 3 or 5 etc.) side by side with different sauces or garnishes on each one
Biscuit and pastry cutters and moulds are great tools for creating shapes
Height
Height can be created by stacking the protein over starches or placing leafy salads on top of proteins
Plastic and metal moulds can be used to shape dishes in towers.
Texture
Varied textures will create more interest
Colour
You can use vibrant coloured ingredients as contrast
Using tones of the same colour can be effective also
Garnish
A garnish should only enhance the look of the dish, not overshadow it.
Make sure that garnishes complement the ingredients and flavours of the dish
Class Activity – General Discussion
Trainer to provide pictures/photos or internet sites displaying food presentation.
Trainees to comment on the different presentations
Discuss appropriateness of each style.