Cold Cut Platter
A quintessential American classic, this Cold Cut Platter is the ultimate solution for effortless entertaining or a satisfying family lunch. It features a curated selection of premium deli meats, artisanal cheeses, crisp vegetables, and tangy condiments, all beautifully arranged and ready to be layered onto hearty rye bread for a personalized sandwich experience.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the fresh vegetables.
- b.Carefully separate the leaves of the butter lettuce. Wash them under cold running water and pat them completely dry with a paper towel or use a salad spinner. Set aside.
- c.Wash the tomatoes and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- d.Peel the red onion and slice it into very thin rings.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Arrange the meats and cheeses on the platter.
- b.Select a large platter, wooden board, or serving tray.
- c.For a visually appealing presentation, fold each slice of deli meat. You can fold them in half and then in half again to create triangles, or gently roll them into tubes.
- d.Arrange the folded turkey, ham, and roast beef in distinct sections on the board, creating gentle piles.
- e.Fan out the slices of provolone and cheddar cheese, overlapping them slightly, and place them next to the meats.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add the vegetables and condiments.
- b.Artfully tuck the dried lettuce leaves into the gaps between the meats and cheeses.
- c.Arrange the sliced tomatoes and red onion rings in overlapping patterns on the board.
- d.Spoon the mayonnaise and dijon mustard into two separate small bowls or ramekins. Place them directly on the platter.
- e.Place the dill pickle slices in another small bowl and add it to the arrangement.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve the platter.
- b.Arrange the slices of rye bread in a basket or on a separate plate next to the main platter.
- c.Serve immediately, allowing guests to build their own sandwiches to their preference.
- d.For best results, keep the platter chilled until the moment of serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, allow the cheeses to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
- 2Create visual interest by using a variety of colors and textures. Consider adding olives, pepperoncini, or cornichons to the platter.
- 3Offer a 'mustard bar' with dijon, whole grain, and spicy brown mustard for more flavor options.
- 4To prevent the bread from getting soggy, serve it in a separate basket rather than directly on the platter with the other ingredients.
- 5If preparing ahead, you can chop the vegetables and arrange the condiments in bowls. Assemble the meats and cheeses just before serving to keep them fresh.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meats
Incorporate other cured meats like salami, prosciutto, pastrami, or soppressata for a more Italian-inspired platter.
CheesesCheeses
Swap or add other cheeses such as Swiss, Muenster, Havarti, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
BreadsBreads
Serve with a variety of breads like sourdough slices, pumpernickel, ciabatta rolls, or mini croissants.
Spreads & VeggiesSpreads & Veggies
Enhance the platter with additional spreads like hummus, olive tapenade, or a creamy horseradish sauce. Add vegetables like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or cucumber slices.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The combination of various deli meats and cheeses provides a significant amount of high-quality protein, which is crucial for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
Rich in B Vitamins
Deli meats like turkey, ham, and roast beef are good sources of essential B vitamins, particularly B12 and Niacin. These vitamins play a key role in energy metabolism and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Fully Customizable Meal
This platter format allows each person to build their meal according to their dietary needs and preferences. You can easily control portion sizes and balance the meal by adding plenty of fresh, nutrient-dense vegetables.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving, including two slices of bread and a moderate amount of meats, cheeses, and condiments, contains approximately 650-800 calories. The final count can vary significantly based on the specific sandwich you build.