How to Arrange a Nice Table of Appetizers

Appetizer presentation is almost as important as taste.

Appetizers should whet your guests' appetites while holding them over until the main course. A nice, well-planned arrangement makes the dishes look professional and enticing. Don't be afraid to experiment to get the most out of your table of appetizers.

Instructions

1. 

   Arranging chips by type makes them attractive, yet easily distinguishable.

   Place similar items close to one another without mixing them together. For example, separate chips by type or color on one tray. This looks aesthetically pleasing while clearly displaying the differences of each item. Do the same with any items designed for enjoyment together, such as crackers and cheese.

2. 

   Height adds visual tastiness to already tasty dishes.

   Orient appetizers to display height. For example, instead of laying potstickers on their sides, turn them on end or lean them against each other to make them look taller. This adds more depth to the dish and may let you put more on a single plate.

3. 

   Variety helps ensure there is something for everyone.

   Include appetizers for different tastes. For example, don't prepare every dish with meat in case some of your guests are vegetarian. Diversify the selection of foods, even within each type of food, such as adding grapes and berries to a plate of apple slices.

4. 

   Small plates make portions look larger.

   Use the right size plates, bowls and serving trays. If the appetizer doesn't fill the plate, use a smaller plate, which helps portions look bigger.

5. 

   The lettuce under these skewers can double as wraps.

   Use garnish that both looks and tastes good with each dish. For instance, lay cut slices of kiwi around a plate of strawberries to complement the red with the green and present two fruits that go well together.

6. 

   Without labels, guests may avoid dishes they don't recognize.

   Label the appetizers. Guests may not know what some dishes are; labeling them with names and ingredients lets guests easily determine if the dish is right for them.

Tips & Warnings

• Offer variety, but don't overdo it. Don't offer so many appetizers that guests won't be hungry for the main course. If you're serving only appetizers, plan for about nine pieces for each person.

References

• Start Cooking: Seven Ways to Present Food Like A Chef
• Taste of Home: Appetizers and Buffet Tips