The levels of processing (LOP) framework, extensively studied with verbal materials, suggests that deeper semantic encoding enhances memory compared to shallow perceptual encoding. While prior research has explored this effect using nameable images, little is known about LOP effects on basic visual features like color. We investigated LOP effects on color recall in visual associative memory. In a first laboratory-based study (N=187), we examined memory for object–color and fractal–color associations using recognition and cued recall paradigms. Results revealed robust LOP effects. In a second online study (N=307), we replicated and extended the cued recall paradigm for object–color associations with a size judgment condition to minimize potential confounding factors like self-reference and task relevance. Memory performance was consistently superior under deep encoding conditions (e.g., real-life size judgments) compared to shallow encoding (e.g., perceptual size judgments). Together, these findings demonstrate the impact of LOP beyond verbal materials to basic visual features and highlight the importance of elaborative processes in visual associative memory.