Simple and surprising cuisine

We often complicate things in the kitchen when preparing elaborate recipes, thinking that will make things tastier. But nothing is further from the truth! Good cooking is also something that requires simplicity, and of course good quality local products. There is no need to look for the most expensive lobster in the supermarket. If we combine our ingredients with a bit of originality, almost any food can be part of a sophisticated dish.

And, of course, good presentation is an essential part of the process. And don't forget, we also enjoy food visually. Let's look at some examples:

• Small glasses: There are various shapes made of different materials, but the important thing is that they are comfortable to use when serving and eating. The wider ones are suitable for use with a spoon and fork, the tall and thin ones for soups, creams and for small snacks in.

• Skewers or cocktail sticks: small appetisers can be placed on trays or serving dishes with cocktail sticks so that everyone can help themselves.

• Teaspoons: elegant and useful for tasting smaller-sized tapas.

• Waffle cones: Ideal for serving creamy cheese-based preparations or spreadable creams.

'Simplicity is the ultimate in sophistication' (Leonardo Da Vinci)

• Boards, preferably made of natural wood: they give a rustic, handmade touch to the dish. This is recommended for Iberian hams and cheeses.

• Cans: ideal for serving mussels, sardines, anchovies and even salads.

And in line with the idea of keeping things simple, we recommend using plain-looking dishes, avoiding prints or elaborate glassware. We can accompany this with some original centrepieces such as bowls of ice filled with fruit and flowers. As time passes the cubes melt, with the fruit and flowers eventually left floating in the water.