Cold Cuts Platter Presentation: Rolled or Fanned? Exploring the Best Option and Covid-19 Impact

When it comes to serving cold cuts at a large gathering, the presentation can make a significant difference. The two most common methods are rolling and fanning the slices on the platter. But which one is the best option? And how has the Covid-19 pandemic affected this choice? Let’s delve into these questions and explore the answers.

The Art of Cold Cuts Presentation

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal event, the presentation of your cold cuts platter can set the tone for the meal. Rolled and fanned presentations each have their unique appeal and practical benefits.

Rolled Presentation

Rolling each slice of meat or cheese creates a neat, organized look on the platter. This method is particularly effective when you have a variety of different cold cuts, as it allows each type to stand out. Rolled cold cuts are also easier to pick up with a fork or toothpick, making them a convenient choice for stand-up receptions or parties where guests may be moving around.

Fanned Presentation

Fanning the slices out in a semi-circle or full circle creates an attractive, abundant look. This method is ideal for showcasing the quality and variety of your cold cuts, especially when you have a large platter to fill. However, fanned cold cuts can be a bit more challenging to pick up, particularly if they are thinly sliced.

Covid-19 Impact on Cold Cuts Presentation

The Covid-19 pandemic has brought about a heightened awareness of hygiene and food safety. This has implications for how we serve and present food, including cold cuts.

Individual Servings

One of the main concerns with serving cold cuts at a large gathering during the pandemic is the risk of cross-contamination. To minimize this risk, consider serving individual portions instead of a communal platter. You could roll or fan the cold cuts on small plates or in bento boxes for each guest.

Use of Utensils

Encourage guests to use utensils rather than their hands to pick up the cold cuts. This can be facilitated by providing small forks or toothpicks. If you’re using the fanned presentation, consider slicing the cold cuts a bit thicker to make them easier to pick up with utensils.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to roll or fan your cold cuts largely depends on the type of event, the variety of your cold cuts, and your personal preference. However, in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s important to prioritize safety and hygiene. This might mean adapting your presentation to include individual servings and promoting the use of utensils.