From Good to Great with Finishing Touches

Once you’ve mastered the basics and can create delicious dishes intuitively, the next step is to elevate your cooking with thoughtful finishing touches. Small additions and tweaks are made just before serving a dish.

They usually include a drizzle of oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of zest, or a contrasting texture.

The basics

• A drizzle of oil or sauce

  • A drizzle of olive oil can add richness or a fruity aroma to salads, soups, and grilled vegetables. Our favorite is Graza, use code OKAYPERFECT for 10% off.

  • A drizzle of balsamic glaze can enhance the flavors of roasted meats, vegetables, and even desserts.

• Citrus zest and Juice

  • Grated citrus zest adds a burst of freshness to seafood, salads, and desserts. A squeeze of lemon or lime juice can brighten and balance the flavors of rich or creamy dishes.

• Salts and spices

  • A sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a crunchy texture and enhances the overall flavor of roasted vegetables, steaks, and chocolate desserts.

  • A dash of finishing spices like smoked paprika, sumac, or za’atar can add depth and a unique twist to your dish.

Don’t forget about texture! 

• Crunchy Elements

  • Consider using almonds, pine nuts, sesame seeds, or pumpkin seeds. Toasted is even better.

  • Crispy shallots, fried garlic, or croutons can add a great crunch to soups, salads, and casseroles.

    • Check this succotash class, or this one on green bean casserole to get a better understanding of adding crunch!

• Creamy Additions

  • Dollop of yogurt, crème fraîche or a crumble of feta, can add a creamy texture and/or bold flavor to salads, pizzas, and roasted vegetables.

• Herbs and Greens

  • A heavy pinch of parsley, cilantro, basil, or microgreens can add a burst of color and a burst of fresh, peppery flavor.

You eat with your mouth AND your eyes!

• Edible Flowers

  • Nasturtiums, pansies, and violets can add a vibrant pop of color and a subtle floral note to your dishes.

• Plate Presentation

  • Take a minute to think through how to arrange your food on the plate. Use contrasting colors and shapes to create a visually appealing presentation.

  • Always remember to wipe the edges of the plate for a clean look.

For more great classes on taking your dish to the next level check out seared duck with Chef Stuart, curried meatball with Chef Zonya, and American-style hash with Chef Makenna.

Think about complements and contrast!

• Add a touch of sweetness to savory dishes or a hint of salt to sweet dishes to create a balanced, complex flavor profile.

• Balance rich, fatty dishes with a splash of acid, like vinegar or citrus juice, to cut through the richness and enhance the flavors.

• Serve a cold salad with a warm entrée or add a scoop of ice cream to a warm dessert for a delightful contrast in temperatures.

Examples for you to take into you kitchen!

• Making a roasted butternut squash soup? Finish it with a drizzle of herb oil, a dollop of crème fraîche, and a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds.

• Grilled salmon? How about a squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and a garnish of microgreens.

• Want to take chocolate mousse to the next level? Add a sprinkle of sea salt, a few fresh berries, and a dusting of cocoa powder.

Embrace the creativity and freedom that come with understanding these finishing touches, and watch as your cooking goes up a whole big level!