Sandwich Tray

Our son is not really a fan of casual dining on any holiday. So, he wasn't too thrilled at the thought of not having a really big, traditional, dinner, complete with ham and mashed potatoes. With his dad on board, though, he had to give in. It was easy fixen' and easy clean-up. Perfect in my book.

A crock pot full of Sloppy Joe's, and lots of assorted breads, completed our meal. And of course, there were trays and tins of Christmas cookies and fudge! Here are a few videos to help you get the hang of doing up your own tray of cold cuts, cheese, veggies, and dips.

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Laura Vitale "Laura in The Kitchen"

How To Make Antipasto

A Guide for Creating a Sandwich Tray

I'm sure you'll agree, creating a cold cut tray for a large family gathering can be both fun and rewarding. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a birthday party, or just a casual get-together, a well-prepared cold cut tray can be the star of your buffet table.

I'm including vegan options because we eat this way now. It not only caters to diverse dietary preferences but also ensures everyone feels included and satisfied. Here’s a detailed guide on how to create the perfect cold cut tray for entertaining your large family, along with some vegan-friendly options and their benefits.

Step 1: Selecting the Cold Cuts

Start by choosing a variety of high-quality cold cuts to offer a range of flavors and textures. Traditional choices include:

• Roast Beef: Thinly sliced and full of rich, savory flavor.
• Turkey Breast: A leaner option that pairs well with almost any condiment.
• Ham: Glazed or smoked ham adds a touch of sweetness and smokiness.
• Salami and Pepperoni: These cured meats provide a spicy kick.

For vegan options, consider the following plant-based alternatives:

• Vegan Deli Slices: Many brands offer plant-based versions of classic cold cuts like turkey, ham, and roast beef made from seitan, tofu, or pea protein. (Link opens in a new window)
• Marinated Tofu: Sliced tofu marinated in soy sauce, garlic, and spices can be a delicious and protein-rich addition.

Step 2: Adding Cheese

Cheese is a must-have on any cold cut tray. Offer a selection of cheeses with varying textures and flavors:

• Cheddar: A classic choice that pairs well with most cold cuts.
• Swiss: Known for its distinctive holes and nutty flavor.
• Provolone: A mild cheese that melts beautifully on sandwiches.
• Brie or Camembert: Soft cheeses that add a touch of elegance.

For vegan options:

• Vegan Cheese Slices: Many brands offer dairy-free cheese slices in flavors like cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack.
• Nut-Based Cheeses: Soft cheeses made from cashews or almonds can be a creamy and flavorful addition.

Step 3: Including Fresh Vegetables

Adding fresh vegetables not only enhances the visual appeal of your tray but also provides a refreshing contrast to the rich meats and cheeses. Some great options include:

• Tomato Slices: Juicy and vibrant.
• Cucumber Slices: Crisp and hydrating.
• Lettuce Leaves: Add a refreshing crunch.
• Bell Pepper Strips: Sweet and colorful.
• Pickles and Olives: For a tangy and savory bite.

Step 4: Offering Condiments

Provide an array of condiments to allow guests to customize their sandwiches:

• Mustard: Classic yellow, Dijon, and whole grain mustard.
• Mayonnaise: Regular, light, and vegan options.
• Hummus: A great vegan spread that adds creaminess and flavor.
• Relishes and Chutneys: For a sweet and tangy kick.

Step 5: Serving Breads and Crackers

A variety of breads and crackers ensures there’s something for everyone:

• Sliced Baguette: Crunchy and perfect for open-faced sandwiches.
• Whole Wheat Bread: A healthier option.
• Rye Bread: For a robust flavor.
• Gluten-Free Crackers: For those with dietary restrictions.

Vegan Options and Benefits

Including vegan options on your cold cut tray has several benefits:

• Inclusivity: Including these will ensure that all of your guests, regardless of dietary preferences, can enjoy the meal.
• Health Benefits: Plant-based options often contain less saturated fat and cholesterol, which is one of the reasons we eat this way.
• Environmental Impact: Vegan alternatives generally have a lower carbon footprint compared to meat and dairy products.

Presentation of Your Sandwich Tray

Here are a few tips to help you arrange and serve your tray so that it's visually appealing as well as delicious.

Use a Large Tray: Arrange

• Variety is Key: Use a mix of breads, such as whole grain, sourdough, and rolls. Offer different types of cold cuts, cheeses, and vegan options.
• Colorful Veggies: Incorporate a variety of sliced vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions. Add leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and arugula.
• Vegan Options: Include vegan deli slices, hummus, and marinated tofu or tempeh for variety.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley for added color and flavor.
• Condiment Section: Offer an array of condiments like mustard, vegan mayo, aioli, and pickles in small bowls.
• Separate Sections: Divide the tray into sections for different items to make it easy for guests to build their own sandwiches.
• Serve Fresh: Arrange the ingredients shortly before serving to keep everything fresh.

Final Flourish

• Add Fruits: Place bowls of fresh fruits like berries, grapes, and apple slices around the tray for a touch of sweetness.
• Labeling: Use small labels to identify different ingredients, especially vegan options, to make it easier for guests.
• Napkins and Utensils: Provide plenty of napkins, small plates, and utensils for easy serving and eating.
• Artistic Arrangement: Create a visually appealing arrangement by alternating colors and textures to make the tray look more enticing.
• Filling Gaps: Use lettuce leaves or fresh herbs to fill any gaps and give a more complete look to the tray.

By following these tips, you’ll have a beautiful and delicious sandwich tray that’s perfect for entertaining your large family. Enjoy your gathering!

Want to see our menu we used for our holiday sandwich get together? Would you like to know the types of breads we included?  A list of cheeses, cold cuts, and veggies we enjoyed? Well, we've added a whole page with our menu to inspire you to make your own - click here to see how we ate this Christmas 2010.

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