5 meal appeal factors are…

TextureHow a food is PREPARED affects the way it feels when you chew it. Give me some examples.

To add crunch, serve carrots raw rather than cooked. Toast Italian bread slices to serve with a creamy tomato soup

+

How can this texture be improved?

Before

After

Shape and Size

A carrot can be cut into sticks, Diced, or circles.

Tomatoes sliced vertically form wedges. Tomatoes sliced horizontally show a wagon wheel pattern.

A whole ear of corn has a different impact from a scoop of corn kernels.

ADD variety, keep same serving amount, and create different effects from a single food.

How can this shape & size be improved?

Before

After

Food’s temperature affects it’s taste and texture, as well as its safety.

Temperature

Cold Cheese = Shredded or SlicedHot Cheese = Melted and Stringy

Cold Ice Cream = solidWarm Ice Cream = liquid

vs. Same ingredients right?

Think of one example in your group

+ = yummy

+ = delicious

Also remember that the outside temperature affects what food people enjoy. Ice cream stores,

after all, are busier in July than in January

ColorSelect food in a variety of colors. Colorful fruits and vegetables brighten a meal. If the foods you are serving aren’t naturally colorful, find ways to brighten them.

How can this color be improved?

Before

After

Flavor

Food flavors should harmonize. Foods in the same meal should keep the taste buds interested, not overwhelmed.

Appetizer + Meal + Strawberry Desert = Lack of Flavor

How could this flavor be improved?

Before

After

What meal appeal factor does this plate lack in?

Texture

What meal appeal factor do these plates lack in?

Shape and Size

What meal appeal factor does this plate lack in?

Color

What meal appeal factor does this meal lack in?

Flavor

Menu Planning Principles

VarietyBalanceNutritionFlexibility

Meal Planning Steps1. Choose the main dish.

2. Select the staple food.

Ex. Potatoes , rice, noodles, or stuffing.

3. Select one or two vegetables or sides.4. Choose a salad and a bread.

5. Select the dessert and appetizer.

Weekly Meal Planning

Planning for the week:– Allows you to make sure you are meeting

your nutrition needs– Makes grocery shopping easier– Is more economical– Helps in making meals interesting; actually

consider our factors– Avoid in food waste

Plating Techniques

Using SaucesPlate PaintingVariety of ShapesVariety of TemperaturesComplimenting FlavorsGarnishingHeightCrunch Component

Bon Appétit!