My husband and I just returned from Barcelona, Spain where we sampled our share of Tapas Restaurants. Tapas refer to a type of Spanish cuisine used more broadly to describe a style of dining known as small plates. Anything can come on a small plate. You can order several different tapas and share them. Mini appetizers if you will. It’s a great way to try a variety of flavorful dishes in creating your dining experience.
During my time in the world of Tapas, I learned a few great lessons that put a twist into my daily eating routine:
Twist #1: Use small plates. Use no larger than a 9-inch plate, like a salad plate. Studies show that food psychology works. So whether it is a dinner plate or a salad plate, your eyes tell you it is a plate full of food!
Twist #2: Rate Your Plate. Your proportions on ANY size plate should be 50% non-starchy vegetable, 25% starch or grain, and 25% protein. With mixed dishes like casseroles, soups and stews, think of the ingredients separately to see if the proportions are correct. All you may need to do is add a fresh salad. Avoid seconds at any meal. Save what remains for another meal and you have maximized your time in the kitchen.
Twist #3: Get colorful! Your plate should be a rainbow of color. Use fresh herbs and spices to kick up the flavors. Remember we eat visually with our eyes first. If your plate looks boring and all one color it will not be very appealing to the eyes or to the palate.
The result? A beautiful plate with balanced portions of healthy, fresh, and tasty food, just waiting to dance on your taste buds!
So if it’s time to lose a few pounds or make healthier food choices, try a smaller plate this year and you’ll SEE the difference.
Remember: Small Plates = Smart Plates!
Tags: Small Plate, Tapas