Daily Dish the Fork Lift blog
Food Styling Tips from Our Pros
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Whether you’re plating one of our chef-prepared Holiday Meals or your own family feast, transfer the foods to your favorite dishes to complete the elegant eating experience. Break out the fine china, light the candles and use these simple styling tricks from our own talented team to make your holiday meal as gorgeous as can be.
Whether you’re plating one of our chef-prepared Holiday Meals or your own family feast, transfer the foods to your favorite dishes to complete the elegant eating experience. Break out the fine china, light the candles and use these simple styling tricks from our own talented team to make your holiday meal as gorgeous as can be.
Which Dish? You can’t go wrong with classic white! Use colors and shapes to create variety that will make the food pop, and choose platters that will make the food look bountiful without having to force too much onto a small platter.
Meat: For best results, let meat rest for 10 minutes after heating. Cut across the grain to create 1⁄2–3⁄4-inch slices. Slice completely on a cutting board, then slide your knife underneath and lift onto the platter in one or two sections. Spread slices out in a layered effect, or au cheval (shingled), then embellish as desired with some of the accompanying sides or fresh herbs.
Herbed Carrots: Plate in a shallow bowl or plate, then use tongs to place in the same or alternating directions.
Mashed Potatoes: Spoon into a bowl and use the back of a spoon to swirl the top to desired texture. For extra flair, add chopped chives or parsley and a pat of butter.
Sauces & Gravy: Pour into a gravy boat or attractive bowl with a spoon.
Rolls: Place a cloth napkin or dish towel in the bowl or basket before the bread. Bonus: If the rolls are heated, you can close the cloth to keep them warm.
One-Plate Wonder: Choose a proportional amount of each food, and keep each item in its separate area. Top with sauce or gravy when you’re ready to shoot, then use a damp paper towel or dish cloth to wipe up any drips. Shoot from above to show the whole plate. Don’t forget to tag #nuggetmarkets!
A Few Extra Pro Tips:
- Always have a bit of greenery like fresh herbs on hand to finish the look. When it comes to garnishes, think about colors and textures to create diversity.
- Style the least time-sensitive foods (likes carrots or Brussels sprouts) first and the most time-sensitive foods (like gravy) last.
- Have fun with it and remember that it’s also okay to just sit down and enjoy the meal!
Happy holidays!
