Food Presentation by Matt Armendariz

When you cook at home, you do not have a team of sous-chefs to help you plate an elaborate dish. Therefore, I am always on a hunt for these small details that add a Wow factor. The latest work of Matt Armendariz goes in that direction.

See how cutting a square tart at angles makes all the difference. It could be used on a pizza or a fruit tart. Or you can cut your fennel with a tiny bit of stems and elegantly lay down a fennel and red grapefruit salad on a plate.

Take advantage of freshly harvested vegetables to serve light appetizers. Scoop the seeds and drain your cucumber slices for at least 30 minutes if they replace the traditional crostini. When you scoop the seeds, be careful to leave a thin layer at the bottom of the cucumber slices.

+ photos: Matt Armendariz