Incentives for eating at home increase by the day – for some of us, it might be directly proportional to the increase in food prices! Thankfully, when you start with unbeatable flavors, you can really only improve from there. Part of the joy of a chef prepared meal relies on presentation. Research actually shows that we tend to believe food is tastier when it’s presented artfully. How better to bring a little art to the table than to start with some inspiration? These simple tips will help you get the most out of your home chef-ing experience.  

  1. GATHER – LOCALLY GROWN AND ARTISANAL FLAVORS 
    Produce at the Dallas Farmers Market is grown in Texas or 400-miles of Dallas, meaning that the selection is always fresh and seasonal! Produce that is harvested at the peak of ripeness will be sweeter and more flavorful. For example, carrots and beets are able to fully develop their sugars leaving them vibrant, crisp, and sweet! The freshness doesn’t stop there – ranchers, bakers, and artisan chefs take the utmost care to bring products directly to market with unbeatable flavors. Need tips to prepare products? Just ask! Each producer can give you a run-down of the nuances of their goods.
  2. GROOVE – THE SLICE & DICE
    A little finesse goes a long way with presentation! There’s no end to the magic you can create with a good mandolin and a steady hand. Ribbons of carrots or delicate beet tarts are totally attainable for even an amateur chef with the right tools. So pull out those spiralizers from the back of the cabinet and turn some zucchinis into noodles like nature intended! Don’t forget to sharpen your knives (and maybe watch a few How-To videos) then you’ll be well on your way to grooving through a beautiful meal prep. 
  3. GARNISH – A LITTLE EYE CANDY 
    Raise your hand if you’ve ever been personally victimized by a bland salad. That’s what we thought. Never underestimate what a pop of color or flavor can do to make an enticing dish. If you’ve made it through a trip to the Dallas Farmers Market and your reusable bag doesn’t include microgreens or some spicy arugula, then you haven’t REALLY shopped The Shed! Tacos, toasts, salads, omelets, sirloins, or seitan – they all taste better and look better with a little garnish on top. Pop a little color on that dish and suddenly you’ll be taking reservations for dinner at your house!