Set The Table

Very Large Serving Platters: The Perfect Way to Serve Your Guests

If you’ve ever been in charge of a party, meal, or anything else that requires serving food to a large group of people, you know it’s tough. For one thing, you have to make sure everyone gets enough to eat—and that means you need to be able to whip out as many plates as possible at once.

But not just any plate will do! You need something that can hold all those different foods and keep them organized. And that’s where these large serving platters come in handy! Read on for facts and details about large serving platters.

What Makes a Good Serving Platter?

When it comes to serving food, there’s no denying that a good platter can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking for something to serve your family dinner or a new platter that will wow your friends at your next social gathering.

There are a few things you should know before you shop around. Here are some things to consider.

Size/Shape

A good large serving platter should be big enough to hold a lot of food but small enough that it doesn’t take up too much real estate on your table.

The same goes for shapes: circles are better for small portions of food like desserts, while squares are better for larger quantities of side dishes or entrees. In general, choose a serving platter that fits the type of food you’ll be putting on it!

Material

The best serving platter will be made from thick, high-quality material that can hold up to the weight of whatever it’s carrying. The last thing you want is a flimsy dish that will buckle under pressure and dump your carefully prepared meal onto the floor!

Look for heavy-duty materials like glass and ceramic—they’ll stand up to the test of time better than plastic or paper.

Weight/Durability

When choosing a serving platter, think about how much weight it can hold and how long it’s likely to last. If you plan on using your serving platter daily, look for something durable and strong enough to stand up against frequent use.

Price

How much are you willing to spend on a new serving platter? Does this fit within your budget? As with most things in life, there’s a wide range of prices out there when it comes to serving platters.

You don’t have to break the bank on your first purchase, but if you’re looking for something that will last more than just a few uses, consider investing in something pricier (but still affordable). Then, you can use it repeatedly without having to buy another one anytime soon.

Color

When choosing between multiple options, color can be an essential consideration. For example, a dark-colored serving platter can help add contrast against lighter foods like cheese or fresh fruit, while a white or light-colored tray will allow foods with vibrant colors like tomatoes or strawberries to pop!

What Are the Different Types of Platters?

Here’s a rundown of some of the most common types of platters:

Glass Serving Platter

Glass serving platters are great for displaying food at a buffet or with a casserole dish. They are durable and easy to clean as long as you don’t drop them on the floor. Glass platters are made of tempered or untempered glass.

Knowing which kind you have before putting anything hot or wet on them is essential because they may shatter under certain conditions.

Ceramic Serving Platter

Ceramic serving platters are another popular choice because of their durability and versatility. You can also use them to serve both hot and cold foods alike—make sure it’s oven-safe before putting anything in there!

Ceramic platters often come in bright colors and neutral tones, so they’ll fit into most kitchens seamlessly.

Wood Serving Platters

Wood is one of the most popular materials for serving platters, but it’s not as easy to clean as other options. Wood is porous, meaning any liquid that spills on it will soak into the surface and leave stains behind.

However, you’ll find that wood serving platters come in many different styles and designs—some even have handles so you can carry them easily.

Stainless Steel Platters

Stainless steel is an excellent choice for large serving platters because it’s easy to clean and won’t warp or crack if you expose it to high heat during cooking or storage.

It also won’t retain odors from previous use, making it an ideal surface for serving foods like cheese or crudités where aroma matters. However, stainless steel is often more expensive than some other materials.

Plastic Platters

Plastic platters are an excellent option for those planning to serve a large group of people. They are easy to clean and inexpensive.

Also, plastic serving platters are lightweight, making them easier to move around. The main drawback to plastic serving platters is that you cannot use them in the oven or microwave. In addition, they may break if dropped onto a hard surface.

Top 5 Large Serving Platters

The following are our choices for the five best large serving platters that will work well for your events, parties, or other serving needs.

DOWAN Large Serving Platter

This option is the perfect serving platter for your next dinner party. It’s made of porcelain, so it’s durable and will last a long time. In addition, it has a leak-proof design that keeps your food fresh and delicious, and it’s also safe to use in the microwave, dishwasher, and oven!

This large serving platter has a silky touching feeling that makes it feel like you’re holding a piece of art in your hands—not just a platter. Its stylish oval shape makes it easy to serve on any table or countertop.

Pros

It’s easy to clean
It’s heat resistant
It’s durable

Cons

Easy to shatter if exposed to a lot of heat

i BKGOO Foodservice White Plastic Platter

Whether you’re looking for a new serving tray or want to add some variety to your kitchen, this white plastic tray from i BKGOO will do the trick. It has a lightweight design and is stackable for easy storage.

It is also durable, stain and scratch-resistant, and features an elegant white color that will pair well with any decor. The melamine construction makes it a safe bet for even the most finicky of eaters – no worries about dropping or scratching these beauties.

Pros

Melamine is lightweight and easy to carry around
It’s easy to clean
Great for outdoor activities serving

Cons

It’s not microwave-safe

Large Serving Platter Set – DELLING

Anyone who wants to create a beautiful culinary masterpiece will appreciate the DELLING Large Serving Platters (Set of 3).

This set includes 3 round platters in different sizes: 16-inches, 14-inches, and 12-inches. They are made of high-fire ceramic, which ensures long-lasting durability.

Other features include a sturdy, non-slip base and raised sides for safe transportation. They are also dishwasher and microwave safe, so you can clean them easily after use. These platters are also perfect for serving pasta, sliced meats, seafood dishes like sushi or pancakes, and sandwiches and pizzas.

Pros

It’s versatile- you can use it as a serving dish, platter, or tray.
Aesthetically pleasing

Cons

May easily break from high heat exposure

Le Creuset Stoneware Oval Serving Platter

When serving food on such a large scale, presentation is everything. Le Creuset’s Stoneware Oval Serving Platter is stylish, sturdy, and reliable. The Serving Platter is made from hard-wearing stoneware, which is a great material as it is both heat and shock-resistant.

This platter is safe to put in the oven, freezer, or microwave, so you can heat them without worrying about cracking or melting. In addition, the consistent tones add great design detail to any kitchen setting.

Pros

They are safe to use in the dishwasher
It Has handles, so it is easy to carry around

Cons

A bit pricey

LAUCHUH Extra Large Porcelain Serving Platter Perfect for Display

The LAUCHUH Serving Tray with Handle Extra Large Porcelain Serving Platter is a must-have for those looking to upgrade their serving platters.

This gorgeous piece will solve all your problems with large servings. It has a generous platter size, raised edges, and an extended handle for easy carrying.

This tray is made from high-quality porcelain, making it oven safe and dishwasher safe. It is also perfect for outdoor or indoor entertaining and everyday use. Plus, its simple yet eye-catching design won’t disrupt the decor of your dining area.

Pros

It is easy to clean
It is versatile
It’s very convenient since it has handles
Large

Cons

The curved edges may reduce the space on the tray
A bit heavy

Wrapping Up

Large Serving Platters are a necessity for any dinner party. They also work well for your meal prep needs to feed your family or a large crowd.

With such fantastic variety in shapes and sizes, you can use these plates to serve anything from appetizers and side items to main courses and desserts.

They also add an elegant touch to the party. There are many platters to choose from, such as oval-shaped, square-shaped, rectangle-shaped, etc.

If you are going for a budget, check out the types from different shops, the quality and price, and the material. It is important to have all the factors in mind.

Slate and Wood Serving Board With Bowls

Set The Table

Serving boards give you space to prepare a delicious snack layout for parties, dinners, or picnics. While the boards might look like basic wood cutting boards, you need to consider what you’re serving to find the right board for your needs. Slate and wood serving boards have plenty of space to showcase a variety of cheese, meat, crackers, nuts, fruit, and more.

If you want to serve items like olives or cherry tomatoes without worrying that they’ll roll away or moisten the other food, you can put them in a bowl. Using serving boards with bowls also helps facilitate passing around the goods so everyone can snag what they want.

Top 6 Slate and Wood Serving Boards With Bowls Reviewed

These six slate and wood serving boards with bowls offer something for everyone. You’ll find different sizes and styles so you can have space for all your favorite snacks.

1. Picnic at Ascot Bamboo Charcuterie Platter

This wood serving board with bowls is beautiful in its simplicity. You get a solid bamboo board with a golden-stain finish. The board itself is 13 inches wide by 13 inches long. It stands about two inches above the table thanks to rubber feet that stabilize it.

The three ceramic serving bowls are perfect for olives, pickles, nuts, jams, or other condiments. There’s no limit to what you can serve in these bowls because they include bamboo spoons. Your guests will have no problem scooping out just enough of the snack.

Pros

Bowls are inset to stay in place while serving
Board looks upscale for fancy dinners
It’s light enough to transport for picnics
The set includes matching bamboo spoons

Cons

Board isn’t durable enough to double as a cutting board
Spoons are shallower than typical teaspoons

2. Large Slate Cheese Board and Knife Set with Bowls

Sometimes it’s more impressive to let your snacks speak for themselves. Your food assortment is sure to pop on this dark serving board. The slate slab is thick and sturdy and can double as a cutting board. Bumper feet prevent the stone from scratching your table or countertops.

The board is 16 inches long and 12 inches wide, so you have plenty of room for cheese, meat, crackers, and fruit. Three square ceramic bowls can hold nuts, round snacks, dips, and condiments.

This set is ideal for starting out with charcuterie because it includes four stainless steel serving utensils. You get a thin knife, a chisel knife, a heart knife, and a serving fork. It also comes with stone chalk so you can label each item.

Pros

Slate board has bumper feet to prevent scratches
Includes four stainless steel serving utensils
Three small bowls hold round items and dips
Includes stone chalk to label each snack

Cons

Bowls aren’t inset, so they can slide off the tray
It’s not microwavable or dishwasher safe

3. Shanik Acacia Wood Serving Board With Bowls

The dark acacia wood of the Shanik serving board elevates your charcuterie from a snack assortment to an elegant dining experience. The board itself is 15 inches long and 13 inches wide. It’s made of stained wood, with inset spaces for three bowls and a slate cutting surface.

The slate portion easily lifts out of the acacia wood to store three serving utensils in the board itself. The ceramic bowls are rectangular and fit in cutouts at the top of the board. There are also inset sections for crackers or bread. The board’s design makes it easy to carry from the kitchen to the table without losing any snacks.

Pros

Inset areas keep bowls and crackers from sliding around
Serving utensils store neatly inside the board
The slate section lifts out for easy cleaning
Comes with a velvet bag to store it safely

Cons

Wood section scuffs and scratches easily
The slate portion doesn’t fit snugly and might wobble

4. SMIRLY Bamboo Cheese Board Set

The SMIRLY serving board with bowls includes everything you’d need to serve your guests a delicious assortment of foods. Instead of overfilling one panel, there’s an additional round fruit tray with five spacious sections.

Two ceramic bowls fit into the larger tray’s corners. The tray is 17 inches long and 13 inches wide. The top of the board has three square insets to keep items like nuts, grapes, or olives from rolling away.

The set also includes four serving knives that fit into a magnetic holder. If you cut everything ahead of time, you can leave off the holder to have more space on the board. But if you want to include knives for convenience, they stand up perfectly along the edge of the tray.

Pros

Includes insets for nuts and bowls for liquid and dips
Comes with a matching fruit tray
The magnetic holder keeps serving utensils in place
Includes four serving knives and six sampler forks

Cons

Bowls and insets aren’t very deep
Utensils aren’t strong enough for hard meats and cheeses

5. Shanik Square Acacia Charcuterie Set

The previous Shanik offering on this list is an excellent option for beginners, but if you want to include countless snacks, dips, and condiments, you need to upgrade to their square charcuterie set. This board has hidden drawers that expand to offer more space, utensils, and ceramic dishes.

The board is 14 by 14 inches square at its most compact size. Two hidden drawers pull out to store cutting utensils and extra ceramic plates. Four corner-shaped ceramic bowls sit on the board’s edges. The entire border of the board is inset, so nothing will roll away during transport.

Pros

Two hidden drawers include more dishes and utensils
Remove the drawers to have three serving boards in one
Unique shaped ceramic bowls make this board look fancy
Have the option to keep it compact or spread everything out

Cons

Board loses durability over time
Wood warps with washing, making it hard to remove drawers

6. ChefSofi Round Charcuterie Board Set

For people wanting something a little different, this round charcuterie board set stands out. It’s 13 inches in diameter, giving you plenty of room for a snack assortment. There are two layers to the board, so you can store four serving utensils underneath the cutting section.

Four ceramic bowls sit around the board’s edge to maximize the space. There’s also an inset along the other side of the board to prevent nuts, crackers, and other small items from rolling away. The center section is sturdy enough to use as a cutting board.

Pros

The compact cutting board has room for utensil storage
The round design is unique and attractive
Four bowls provide plenty of space for liquids, dips, and condiments
Comes with four serving knives and forks

Cons

Knives might warp when used with hard cheese or cured meat
Not much larger than a dinner plate, so best for small gatherings

Things To Consider Before Buying Serving Boards With Bowls

After seeing six great options for charcuterie sets, you might be unsure what’s best for you. Consider these major factors before you buy a slate or wood serving board with bowls.

Size

The size of the serving board depends on what you plan to serve. If you’re having a small gathering, you don’t need a large, bulky board. But you don’t want to buy a compact board and end up piling your snacks on top of each other. Some of the best options on this list are those with hidden drawers and removable sections so you can spread out your food offerings.

Material

Plastic cutting boards were once more popular than wood, but you can’t beat the look of a wooden serving board. When there’s a slate inset included, you elevate a charcuterie board into a work of art. It’s also nice to use stone chalk to label items on a slate board.

Ceramic bowls are the most common accessory you’ll see with slate or wood serving boards. They’re durable, simple, and fit in with their neutral color. You can pop them in the dishwasher for easy cleanup after your party.

Care Instructions

People often think wood isn’t as hygienic as ceramic or glass, but it’s fine as long as you clean it properly. Don’t soak it in water, as that makes the wood split. You can hand wash it with hot soapy water and dry it immediately.

Slate has a textured surface that can harbor bacteria. Many slate cutting boards come with a food-safe sealant already applied. As with wooden items, hand wash slate with warm soapy water and dry it with a kitchen towel. Slate boards with no backing or rubber feet are usually dishwasher safe but double-check with the manufacturer first.

Conclusion

Having the right slate or wood serving boards with bowls can elevate any gathering. You have space to provide a snack assortment to your guests. The bowls keep liquids from the dry items and prevent round food from rolling away. The boards also add an element of style to your party. Buy one today to keep all your snacks within arm’s reach.

How To Organize Serving Platters

Set The Table

Organizing the kitchen is never an easy task, especially serving platters. Think about the serving dishes you usually pull out when friends and family are around. How about the pans and pots you use to prepare food? Add these to the muffin tins, baking sheets, and cutting boards you frequently use.

All these kitchen utensils can create a messy environment if they are not organized. Worry not; this critique will guide you on organizing serving platters. You can use the ideas you gain here to store other utensils, too!

Buy the Right Platters for Serving Food

Before you even think about organizing platters for serving food, you should buy suitable platters from the stores. While buying single platters might seem to be a great way to cut costs, buying platters in sets is always recommended.

A set of platters come in specific shapes and sizes. Typically, the platters are placed inside each other. It can help you save on space in the kitchen. The set of platters can also give your kitchen a nice facial uplift. Serving food using these plates creates the right mood to enjoy tasty meals prepared in your kitchen.

Be Creative With Vertical Spaces

Traditionally, most people are used to organizing platters by stacking them. This isn’t a bad way of arranging plates for serving food, but it’s not the best option. It’s time to bring some creativity into your kitchen by making good use of the vertical spaces.

Find some pieces of plywood and use them to make vertical dividers in your kitchen cupboards. You can then use the spaces created to organize your platters. You will notice that you will be using less space to store the platters. Plus, you will find it easy to store the platters or put them away.

Organize With Tension Rods

Using the vertical spaces in your kitchen cupboards also comes in handy here. You can organize platters using tension rods. Using these rods can even help to safely remove some of the serving dishes you haven’t used in a while.

Typically, stacking platters makes it difficult to reach serving dishes at the bottom of the pile. Vertical storage using tension rods helps to eliminate this.

Use Racks

Racks are a must-have in your kitchen. They simplify the whole process of organizing your dishes. Plus, they help a lot in drying hand-washed utensils. You only need to use a water-absorbing placement below the rack, and you’re good to go.

Racks also give your kitchen a beautiful aesthetic, especially if you choose specific designs that match the look of your kitchen and utensils.

Heavy Stuff to the Bottom Cabinet

It’s always a struggle to reach for the heavy platters stored on top shelves. This is especially true for ceramic platters. It takes a lot of effort to get them out and use them for serving food. Most people end up using other dishes to avoid all the hassle.

To avoid this, organize heavy platters at the bottom cabinets. You don’t have to struggle to get them when visitors are around. What’s more, you avoid the potential breakage of these platters.

Hang the Platters

Ever thought of hanging your platters? Designer platters usually come with specific handles– use these to hang them! You can use these handles to hang them vertically and make good use of your spaces. The trick here is to use a curtain rod with hooks.

Position the curtain rod somewhere next to the sink for easy washing and hanging. The rod also should be within your reach when serving food. It makes it easy to grab and use. So, remember to shop for designer utensils that have these hooks when you’re looking!

Take Advantage of Hooks

If your kitchen has enough shelves, you might find extra storage space using hooks. You can hook these storage hooks anywhere on your kitchen shelves. They provide an innovative way of storing your platters for easy retrieval.

Protect Your Platters From Scratches

The last thing you need in your expensive dinnerware is to have them scratched just because of improper storage. If you are stacking your plates, consider giving some extra padding. Use disposable paper plates or sheet foam to provide an extra layer when organizing your platters.

This helps to prevent the platters from coming into contact with each other. Any form of layering works here; you don’t have to go for anything expensive.

Organize and Decorate

Organizing serving platters isn’t just about putting things where they need to be. It’s more than just decluttering. You need to be creative here and keep things organized while at the same time decorating your kitchen.

For instance, instead of using the usual baskets to store platters, you can use well-designed cane baskets. You will enjoy spending more time preparing hearty meals in a well-organized environment. So, it’s worth leveraging your creativity here.

Install Pegboards

Pegboards are the in-thing these days. You can always use the empty kitchen wall spaces to store platters. Ensure you install the peg boards around places where you can easily access them. For instance, install them next to the sink or close to the dining table, if you have one in your kitchen area.

Declutter and Stay Organized

An integral aspect of being organized requires decluttering some of your serving platters. Tidying up your kitchen environment helps to de-stress. Preparing meals in a disorderly space can easily make you feel overwhelmed!

Therefore, you need to get rid of some of the platters you no longer use. Over time, there is a good chance that you’ve collected tons of kitchenware. Get rid of some, as this helps create space for new things you might require.

Organizing serving platters doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Once you establish a specific storage system, the rest is simply maintenance. Keeping your kitchen organized creates a welcoming environment where you can cook and share conversations with your friends and family.

Use the ideas discussed herein to simplify the process for you. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel – do what the experts do!

8 Large Serving Platters for Catering

Set The Table

You’ll be serving many people when you’re catering, which means you’ll need a serving platter that fits the job. Whether you’re hosting a party or your restaurant is providing the main dish for an event, serving platters should be at the top of your list.

However, before you run out and buy one, it’s essential to consider a few things. A serving platter for one occasion may not be suitable for another.

For example, a hot dish will be easier to transport on a plate with handles, while food presented with a sauce will do better on a deeper plate. There is also style to consider.

Who knew choosing a suitable serving platter came with so many deliberations?

Fortunately, there are plenty of options that will help you pull off your event without a hitch. Here are eight large catering platters:

1. Our Table™ Simply White Rim 18-Inch Rectangular Serving Platter

Available at Bed Bath and Beyond, Our Table offers an entire line of cookware and serving accouterments, including catering platters.

Our Table’s Serving Platter is the first on this list, thanks to its simple style and uncomplicated nature.

Simple but elegant, this platter will go with almost any dish set you already have. However, you can also order dishes to match.

At 18 inches in length, this porcelain serving platter is the perfect size for serving hors d’oeuvres. A subtly elevated rim makes this dish ideal for saucier dishes.

The only drawbacks to this platter are its slightly smaller size and the fact that it’s hand-wash only.

Pros

Simple but beautiful
Versatile
Subtle rim

Cons

No handles
Not quite as large as other serving platters
Hand wash only

2. Oval Platter with Handles from Crate&Barrel

This gorgeous Oval Platter with Handles from Crate&Barrel will be a hit at your event. Its simple design and white finish will make it an attractive addition to any table.

At 21.5 inches wide, there isn’t much you won’t be able to fit on this platter. Made of porcelain and with a depth of about 1.75 inches, it’s sturdy and versatile, opening the door for any creative culinary chef-d’œu·you can dream up.

The handles are incredibly convenient for transporting any food safely from one room to the next. They are also helpful because this large platter can be a bit heavy once you fill it.

Dishwasher, oven (up to 350 degrees), and microwave safe make this serving platter top-notch.

Pros

Handles
Depth
Versatility
Dishwasher, oven, and microwave safe

Cons

Heavy

3. Open Kitchen by Williams Sonoma Large Rectangular Handled Platter

This Rectangular Platter by Williams Sonoma has all of the best qualities of an excellent serving tray. Its classic design will go with any dishes you already have, and it’s convenient for serving large meals.

Although this serving tray measures only 18 inches long, it is 3 inches deep, making it a front runner for casseroles, stews, and pasta. Its convenient handles will also help ensure you don’t lose anything along the way.

Made of glazed stoneware, this platter is dishwasher and microwave safe. It’s ideal for catering to large gatherings, during which you need to reheat food quickly.

Although this dish is likely to fit into any set, it is part of a collection. You can purchase its matching companions for a visually pleasing arrangement.

Pros

Deep
Handles
Dishwasher and microwave safe

Cons

Not oven tested
Smaller than other platters

4. Gabriella Rectangular Serving Platter

The Gabrielle Rectangular Serving Platter from Pottery Barn will make a beautiful addition to your table without being so ostentatious as to steal the show. This crafted glazed stoneware serving platter is perfect for appetizers, entrees, and desserts.

At 18 inches wide and 2 inches deep, you’ll have no trouble offering up the main dish on this platter. The simple and elegant design makes it easy to fit on a table and serve.

Dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe, this large catering platter is a highly convenient way to present food to your guests. Clean-up is a breeze, and you’ll have no trouble keeping the food warm.

Because this dish doesn’t have handles, it is best set on the table and admired, rather than transporting food from one room to the next.

Pros

Deep enough for most foods
Dishwasher microwave and oven safe

Cons

No handles

1. SMULA Serving Tray

When you need a serving tray for casual occasions, the SMULA Serving Tray from IKEA is a great option. Its attractively opaque design and gently curved sides may not be as iconic as stoneware, but it certainly brings a lot to the table (literally and figuratively).

These affordable trays are versatile and easy to serve, from baked treats to full lunch plates. Measuring 20 inches wide, these budget-friendly and practical serving trays won’t let you down when it comes to the surface area.

Because this platter is made with lightweight materials, you won’t have any trouble transporting it. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. They are sturdy enough to be reusable and attractive enough to sit on a beautifully arranged table.

A quality product with an excellent price tag– What more could you want?

Pros

Lightweight
Affordable
Versatile

Cons

No handles
Impractical for formal events or heavy dishes

2. Dream Lifestyle Dinner Plates

Dream Lifestyle Oval Serving Platters can be found at Walmart, making them an affordable and practical option. These stainless steel platters come in various colors, so you can mix and match with your current set or create a whole new look for informal occasions.

At only about 11 1/2 inches wide, this serving platter is best for serving one small dish, appetizers, or cocktails.

These plates’ rolled edges and colorful appearance will look stunning on a themed table. They’re easy to clean, so you’ll find yourself reaching for this convenient option when formal dinnerware isn’t on the menu.

Pick up a few of these high-quality stainless steel platters today. Your guests will love them.

Pros

Affordable
Stainless steel
Lightweight

Cons

Small for a serving tray
No handles

3. Wood Signature Serving Tray by Threshold™

Look no further if you want a serving tray with a rustic design and farmhouse feel. This gorgeous Wood Signature Serving Tray by Threshold will look incredible on your table.

This wood serving tray is as stylish as it is functional. At 20 inches wide, you won’t have any trouble fitting all of your snacks, drinks, or large dishes on this platter.

Carved handles make this tray a breeze to carry from room to room. Plus, its raised edges will ensure all of your food stays in one place, and you won’t have to worry about spillover.

This tray is too beautiful to put in the dishwasher, however. It will need to be spot cleaned. Woodenware doesn’t do well submerged in water.

Pros

Stunning design
Handles
Raised edges

Cons

Spot or wipe clean

4. Fresco Bamboo Large Serving Tray

If you’re an individual or a restaurant looking for a conscientious platter option, the Fresco Bamboo Large Serving Tray is just for you.

Brought to you by Burke Decor, this serving tray is created with bamboo fiber, a highly sustainable resource. It’s also reusable and dishwasher safe, so you know this tray will go the distance and hopefully stay out of the landfill.

At 17 3/4 inches wide, this tray is large enough for any dish you plan to serve. It also has a slightly raised lip to contain any spells that may occur along the way.

Unfortunately, the material in this serving tray is not safe for microwave or oven use.

Pros

Sustainably resourced
Various colors
Large enough for large dishes

Cons

No handles
Not microwave or oven safe

5. Serveware, Dublin Rectangular Tray

If you’re looking for a serving tray that will really stand out, you’ll want to consider the Serveware, Dublin Rectangular Tray. Expertly cut glass makes this serving platter a thing of beauty.

Sold at Macy’s, this 16-inch wide platter is ideal for serving cocktails. If you’re looking for a matching set, consider purchasing other Dublin glassware. Just be prepared to share where you got the dish with your guests, as they are sure to comment on its stunning design.

Its ridged edges and handles make it convenient for carrying. It’s a good thing, too, because this tray can be pretty heavy. The extra work is worth it to see this elegant dinnerware on the table.

Select this serving platter if you want to show off your unique style.

Pros

Gorgeous
Handles
Large enough for carrying several drinks or dishes

Cons

Heavy

Choosing a Platter That’s Right for You

Serving a large party shouldn’t be a headache. Picking out a suitable serving tray for you or your restaurant should be a fun and exciting process. Once you’ve decided the needs of the event you are planning, it’s easy to narrow down which large serving platter will be best.

No matter what you decide, the most important thing about your platter is the food that goes on it. Once you’ve selected your dishes, all you need to do is load them up with your excellent fare.

Pick out one of these superb catering platters today, and enjoy your event!

How To Warm Plates Before Serving

Set The Table

If you have ever dined out at a restaurant, you may have noticed that the plates you have eaten off of have been warm or hot to the touch. You may have even received a warning from your waiter to be careful because the dish they were setting down on your table was burning hot. Why is it that restaurants heat their dishware? Is it something you should be doing at home? And most importantly, how do you warm plates before serving in your home kitchen?

This article will cover all of these questions and guide you in dialing in the temperatures of your dishes. Read on to learn everything you need to know to impress your family and guests with an easy, restaurant-quality technique!

Why Warm Plates?

Warming plates is not about cooking food; it is about maintaining food’s temperature while it travels from the kitchen to the table and from the plate to your mouth. A warm plate delays food cooling off, so you can take your time over your meal and savor every bite.

Heat transfers between your food and your plate through a process called conduction. The food loses heat because it is in direct contact with a colder dish, where it begins to conduct some of its heat to the plate.

Techniques for Heating Up Plates

In a restaurant kitchen, there will usually be a heated rack or window for plates and bowls to sit in that hold them at the perfect temperature while the chefs prepare each dish. Of course, industrial hot racks are not tools typically found in home kitchens or your local grocery store. So what other ways are out there to warm your plates?

In the Oven

Using an oven is one of the most common techniques to warm plates at home. It is even easier if you’re already baking or roasting your meal on the plate. With this method, you will want to turn your oven down to its lowest setting. For most home ovens, this falls between 150 and 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Stack the plates you would like to heat and move them to an oven rack for at least five minutes. This should take no longer than 15 minutes.

In the Microwave

Especially in the heat of summer, it’s understandable not to want to turn on the oven for any reason. Fortunately, this is where your microwave comes in handy. To heat a plate in the microwave, there are some extra precautions you have to take.

Make sure the dishes you want to heat up are microwave-safe. Some types of plastic can melt in a microwave oven. Even if the item is labeled “microwave-safe,” studies have shown that microwaving certain plastics can be dangerous in other ways.
Never put metal in a microwave. If you’ve ever done so accidentally, you’ll know that the metal can spark, or even catch on fire. Most plates these days do not contain metal, but be extra careful if you are using antiques.
Avoid microwaving bare plates and bowls. Running the microwave without any water inside it can cause breakage. Most plates naturally contain very little water; so it can be dangerous to microwave them alone.
When using a microwave to warm up dishes, place a small cup of water on top of the stack of plates. It may take up to five minutes, depending on the strength of your appliance, but will be a much safer process. While you figure out the ideal amount of time to microwave your plates, check their temperature in increments of 30 seconds to one minute.

With Hot Water

Not everyone has a microwave these days. If you fall into this category, a great alternative is to run your plates under some warm water. There is no need to boil water. The hottest water you can get from your sink will be more than sufficient.

If you have just one or two plates to warm up right before serving, it may be easiest to rinse them in hot tap water and dry them off before plating your meal. If you are warming up a larger number of plates and want to keep them warm for a more extended period, you can fill a large bowl or tub with hot water and soak the plates until you are ready to eat.

Common Pitfalls To Avoid

The previous section discussed two of the most common mistakes people make when warming plates–not paying attention to the material and running the microwave without any water.

We also want to warn you about the other frequent error of over-warming your dishes. If you are not paying attention and your plates become too hot, you and your dinner companions may run the risk of burning yourselves. When adequately warmed, you should be able to handle dishes comfortably with bare hands.

When Not To Warm Plates

The goal of serving food on a warm dish is to hold it at the desired temperature.

So by the same logic, times you would not want to warm your plates are if you’re eating cold or room temperature food. Serving something like a salad, for example, on a warm dish can make the leaves of lettuce wilt down and become soggy under the dressing.

Like other cooking aspects, use your best judgment to decide when to warm up your plates.

Final Thoughts

There are many ways to improve the quality of your meals at home, from purchasing higher-quality ingredients at the grocery store to signing up for cooking classes that will teach you hands-on culinary skills. Depending on your budget and time, just doing one or more of these techniques or skill-building can heighten your home cooking experience and your next dinner party.

Warming your plates up before serving is a simple and inexpensive way to elevate the hot meals you prepare at home. As long as you follow this article’s researched tips and instructions, this restaurant-quality temperature technique is fool-proof!

How To Serve Deviled Eggs Without an Egg Plate

Set The Table

Deviled eggs might just be the perfect party food. They’re easy to make, they can be tailored to fit nearly any dietary restriction, and they always seem to disappear quickly.

But for all their popularity, deviled eggs can be a bit of a pain to serve. Egg plates are bulky and tough to find, and balancing a tray of eggs on your lap is never fun.

What’s a deviled egg lover to do? Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to serve food like deviled eggs without an egg plate. Read on for some of our favorite ideas.

Alternative Ways To Serve Deviled Eggs

Egg plates are not the end-all and be-all of deviled egg serving options. While they are certainly made for easy egg transport, there are some other more creative ways you can keep your delicate eggs safe and in good shape until they are ready to be devoured. Let’s begin!

Muffin Tin

A muffin tin is a perfect size for deviled eggs and keeps them separate from one another. Just place a deviled egg in each muffin cup and you’re good to go. Wrap the top with some aluminum foil to serve as a lid and prevent any slippery eggs from falling out on the way.

To create a single-serve option that’s mess-free, slide some muffin or cupcake wrappers into the tins first, and each guest can grab a cup and enjoy their egg with no mess and no sticky hands!

Get Creative With Cups

Deviled eggs are the perfect size for all sorts of small cups and bowls. Shot glasses, ramekins, and small mason jars make great deviled egg serving vessels. Use hollowed-out mini pumpkins or grapefruits as unique containers for your eggs if you want to get fancy. The gourd idea is perfect for a Fall get-together, Halloween, or Thanksgiving meal.

Of course, if you want to keep things simple, plastic cups are always an option. Using clear cups? Consider lining the bottom with some colorful shredded paper or fabric to make a pretty base for your eggs.

Tiered Serving Tray

If you have a tiered serving food tray, you can use it to display your deviled eggs in all their glory.

Tiered trays are a great way to show off different flavors or toppings, and it also helps guests identify which eggs they want to try first.

If you don’t have a tiered serving food tray, you can always make your own by stacking different-sized plates on top of each other or even using upside-down bowls of different sizes.

Just be sure to use plates or bowls that are similar in shape, otherwise, your eggs might roll right off!

Egg Cartons

Egg cartons might seem a little strange, but hear us out. Egg cartons are the perfect size for deviled eggs, and they keep them nicely separated so they don’t get smushed together.

Place a deviled egg in each little egg cavity, and you’re good to go. You can even decorate the outside of the carton to fit your party’s theme or color scheme.

Ice Cube Trays

Ice cube trays are another great option for deviled egg transport. They’re small and lightweight, so they’re easy to carry, and they keep your eggs nicely separated. Plus, they’re affordable and easy to find.

Don’t have an ice cube tray? Find one at your local dollar store. You can even find themed or shaped ice trays to add an extra flair to your deviled egg presentation.

Aluminum Foil

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to transport deviled eggs, aluminum foil is always a good option. Place a few sheets of aluminum foil in the base of a disposable aluminum baking sheet. Bend and squish the aluminum to create small divots large enough to hold the eggs.

Once you’ve made all of your pockets for eggs, you can gently place them in and cover them with one final sheet of aluminum for safe travel. The aluminum method is great for potlucks or picnics because it’s easy to transport.

Plastic Wrap

Using plastic wrap is always a simple option. Place your deviled eggs on a plate or in a serving dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.

You can also use plastic wrap to create individual servings. Just place a deviled egg on a small piece of plastic wrap, and twist the ends to seal. Using plastic wrap is a great choice if you’re taking deviled eggs to go or serving food at an outdoor event.

Just realize that there are extremely high chances of making a mess. If you’re okay with losing a little bit of filling to the plastic wrap for the sake of ease, have at it!

Carry Separately, Assemble On-Site

Assembling once you get to your final destination is a great option if you’re traveling with deviled eggs and you want to make sure they arrive in one piece. Just carry the egg whites and yolk mixture separately and assemble them when you arrive at your destination.

Choosing this method will prevent the yolks from drying out or getting smashed, and it also makes transportation a lot easier.

Here’s what to do: place your boiled and sliced egg whites on a serving platter and wrap them with plastic or aluminum to secure. Then, mix your egg yolk-mayonnaise filling and spoon it into a plastic bag, keeping it all to one corner and keeping air out of the bag.

Once you arrive where you’ll be serving food, simply trim the corner off of the bag and pipe the filling into the eggs for a stunning presentation.

Using Filling as Adhesive

Use your filling to your advantage and make a little extra to serve as your adhesive! Just pipe the egg yolk-mayonnaise filling directly onto the bottom of the egg white halves, and place them gently into an airtight container.

The filling will act as an adhesive and keep the eggs in place during transport.

You can either fill the cavities of the eggs with the remaining filling or wait to do it until you’re about to serve.

Adding Roughage to the Plate

If you’re looking for a decorative way to keep your deviled eggs in place, add some greenery or other roughage to the plate. Adding greens not only adds a pop of color but also helps keep the eggs from sliding around.

You can use lettuce, spinach, cabbage, herbs, or flower petals (think higher-fiber greens with more texture to them). Make sure whatever you use is food-safe and won’t wilt or discolor. Veggies that are slick, like cucumbers or tomatoes, aren’t good options since they won’t grip the plate.

Different Ways to Enhance the Presentation of Your Deviled Eggs

Now that you know how to transport your deviled eggs without an egg plate, let’s talk about how to enhance their presentation. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Top With Caviar or Smoked Salmon

If you want to give your deviled eggs a luxurious makeover, top them with caviar or smoked salmon, which will add an elegant touch and impress your guests. Just be sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Use Creative Toppings

Get creative with your toppings! In addition to the caviar and smoked salmon, there are endless other options. You can top your deviled eggs with bacon, diced veggies, cheese, crumbled-up chips or crackers, herbs, nuts, or anything else that comes to mind. Just use your imagination and have fun with it.

Get Fancy With the Garnish

Think outside the box when it comes to garnishing your deviled eggs. Instead of the traditional paprika, try using other spices like chili powder, smoked paprika, or even cayenne pepper. You can also use fresh herbs, diced veggies, or crumbled bacon bits. Let your cravings guide you.

Turn Them Into Pastry Bites

To make things a little easier (and less messy) for your guests, turn your deviled eggs into bite-size pieces. Pipe the filling, plus finely diced egg white, into mini tart shells or phyllo cups and top with whatever garnish you like.

These delicious pastries are an excellent option when serving food to a large crowd or if finger foods are more your style. This recipe is essentially a deviled egg salad pastry cup, but it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

Recipe Variations To Try

Now that you know how to serve deviled eggs without an egg plate, get creative with the recipes. Here are a few variations to get you started.

There are endless possibilities for recipes. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Just have fun and enjoy the process.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a decorative way to display your deviled eggs or a less messy option for your guests, there’s a method that will work for you. You might have to get a little creative in the kitchen, but resourcefulness goes a long way in serving food like deviled eggs without an egg plate!

And once you take that first bite of your first deviled egg…it’s all worth it.