Chances are that you’ve attended an event at some point that utilized the services of caterers. Platters lined with colorful displays of food are one of the aspects people come to expect at gatherings. However, if you stop and think for a moment, have you ever avoided a particular platted display because of the way it looks? Believe it or not, food presentation plays a crucial role not only in appeal but in maintaining the integrity of the flavor as well.
Defined, food presentation is the art of modifying, processing, arranging, or decorating food to enhance its aesthetic appeal as well as preserve the integrity of its flavor. Any experienced caterer knows how to present, pair, and plate your food selection to serve your guests in style.
Presentation
When it comes to food, looks matter. In fact, a skilled chef will sometimes spend just as much time on the display as they do the ingredient list. One of the biggest mistakes that people make with presentation involves properly displaying color. By nature, we tend to clump together like elements. However, when it concerns presentation, you’ll not only want to incorporate several colors, but you’ll also want to mix them up! Now don’t get us wrong, we don’t mean tossing down food and hoping it looks good. A carefully prepared dish will strategically place each piece of food.
Pairing
Now that you’re counter is filled with a variety of color, it’s time to pair foods. Placing foods that complement one another is crucial to preserving the integrity of the flavor. For example, if you present fish on a platter with cheese, your cheese will absorb the fish flavor. Likewise, onions are another common element that should be treated with care.
Rule of thumb when caterers pair large amounts of food is that like likes like. Yes, you read that correctly. Vegetables like vegetables, meats like meats, and so on.
Plating
If you’re opting for a full-service plated meal. There’s thought that goes into plating as well. Typically there are five elements that when mastered, will provide you with the perfect presentation:
- Highlighting the main ingredient
- Keeping it simple
- Plate clockwise
- Serve an odd amount of food categories
- Balance your plate in color as well as nutritional value
If you have an upcoming event, sifting through caterers can be an overwhelming task. However, the team at Celebrations Catering is here to help. With over 25 years of experience, our team will provide your guests with an appealing display of food that will have them asking for seconds. Contact us today and see why our team is the one team you’ve been searching for (888) 401-3663.
