The Colors of Cooking: Bright & Bold Dishes

Food isn’t just about taste but the full sensory experience. A dish’s vibrant colors can be just as enticing as its flavors. This collection of recipes celebrates bold, beautiful ingredients coming together to create a visually stunning and delicious meal. From the deep purples of kalamata olives to the golden hues of sautéed shrimp, every dish on our menu was a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Orange and Kalamata Olive Salad

This salad is a striking combination of sweet and savory. It pairs juicy oranges with briny Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean-inspired dish that awakens the senses. The brightness of the citrus balances the richness of the olives, while a simple drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs ties everything together. Light yet flavorful, it’s the perfect way to start a meal.

Orange and Kalamata Olive Salad

4 oranges, peeled and cut into 1” chunks

1/3 c. scallions

1/3 c. red onion, cut julienne style

½ c. Kalamata olives, cut in half lengthwise

¼ c. olive oil

Salt and white pepper to taste

1. In a large bowl, gently toss the orange sections, scallions (reserving some for garnish), olives, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.

Yield six servings

Nutrition: Calories:129 Fat11.5g; Saturated Fat1.4g; Carbohydrate12.1g; Sugar 8.5; Fiber 2.2g; Protein 1.2g

Redskin Potato Salad

This classic dish gets a colorful upgrade with redskin potatoes that add both texture and a pop of vibrant color. Tossed with a tangy dressing and fresh herbs, this potato salad is a comforting and hearty side that complements any main course. It’s a familiar favorite with just enough freshness to keep things interesting.

Red Skin Potatoes with Sun Dried Tomatoes

Ingredients

1 pound red skin potatoes

½ c. sun-dried tomatoes in oil

½ c. sliced red onion

1 c. feta cheese crumbled

½ c. pitted Kalamata olives

1 c. cucumber

½ tsp oregano

Dressing

¼ c. olive oil

3 T freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

1. Rinse the potatoes and slice them into ¼” round pieces, leaving the skin on.
2. Add to a medium saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, checking often so as not to overcook; about 20 minutes.
3. Drain in a colander.
4. While the potatoes are cooking, chop sundried tomatoes into pieces. 
5. Peel the cucumbers, remove the seeds, and chop them.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk again until set.
7. Put the potatoes, olives, cucumbers, and onion in a bowl. Pour the mixture over the potatoes and gently toss together. The potatoes should be intact.
8. Add the feta and kalamata olives on top, and sprinkle with oregano.

Nutrition: Calories 187; Fat 10.9g; Saturated fat 3g; Carbohydrates 19.3g; Fiber 2.2g; Sugar 2.5g; Protein 4.3g

Creole Shrimp

A bold, spicy finish to our colorful meal, Creole shrimp is packed with warm spices, bright vegetables, and succulent seafood. The rich red sauce, seasoned with a perfect blend of herbs and heat, coats each shrimp, making the dish as flavorful as it is vibrant. Served over rice or on its own, it’s a showstopper that brings everything together.

Conclusion

Cooking with color isn’t just about presentation—it’s about celebrating the diversity of flavors nature provides. This selection of recipes is all about bringing together bright, bold ingredients in ways that excite both the eyes and the taste buds. Whether it’s the sweetness of citrus, the richness of olives, or the heat of Creole spices, every dish offers something special. Here’s to cooking with color and making every meal a feast for the senses!

Cheers to staying on the Path to Wellness!