For many years, I have made appetizer and fruit trays for our guests during the holidays. The smell of food cooking always makes everyone hungry long before the dinner is ready. Fruit and vegetable appetizers are the perfect way to take the edge off hunger without completely ruining the meal.
The only problem with cut fruit and vegetables is the short counter life. Both fruit and vegetables start to "age" as soon as they are removed from the refrigerator. Once they have set out for a short while, there is absolutely nothing appetizing about looking at them, much less eating them. This year I tried something new. I purchased several iced buffet serving trays and they were fabulous!
I actually left the cut fruits and vegetables out for hours. At the end of the day, they were just as ripe and delicious 10 hours after I first set them out. I did have to change the ice several times during the day, but that was easy. I was also able to save the leftovers to eat later.
Buffet on Ice Serving Trays with Lids
Because I wasn't sure whether I wanted the iced trays with or without lids, I purchased one of each. After using them both, I now have a clear preference for which one works best for our family. I actually liked the lidded appetizer on ice tray the best. Since the appetizers were set out for all day "grazing" instead of a short duration luncheon style buffet, it was wonderful to have the food covered.
Prodyne AB-5-L Appetizers-On-Ice with Lids
- Revolving Tray - Lazy Susan Style
- Pretty Scalloped Edge
- 3 Lidded Sections
- Lids have Handles
- Removable lidded Dip Dish included
- Clear
- Lightweight
- 16 3/6" wide
- 5" deep
&
As you can see in the photo, you fill the bottom tray with a layer of ice, set the tray section over the ice, then cover with the lids. When the ice melts, you remove the lidded sections, pour off the water and add a new layer of ice.
Buffet on Ice Serving Trays without Lids
Clear 2pc Appetizer Server with Ice TrayThis is the second iced buffet serving tray I purchased and used. It does not have lids, it does not turn, and it does not have the vent holes like the tray above. The sections have solid bottoms. This is a two piece design where the entire top tray lifts away from the lower tray of ice.
However, there are no lids and no removable dip dish. This style would be an excellent choice for a luncheon or buffet dinner where an open server would be preferred.
This is a perfectly acceptable appetizers on ice buffet serving tray and I will certainly use it again. But, my first choice would be the pretty scalloped tray with the lids and separate dip dish above.
Both serving trays would need to be hand-washed.
For More Great Product Reviews,
Visit ReviewThisProductReviews.com
Visit ReviewThisProductReviews.com
Appetizers on Ice Buffet Serving Trays Review Written by:
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
FOLLOW US ON:
What a perfect serving tray for having appetizers set out and available to holiday guests. I didn't realize these trays were available. Very helpful review, Sylvestermouse. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI could have used one Christmas Eve as my brother, sister-in-law and I did an 'appetizer only' afternoon and evening of visiting and playing cards. Our entire meal consisted of several different kinds of appetizers and we enjoyed snacking our way through the evening. Now I know how handy this appetizers on ice serving tray will be for the next time.
So happy that you tried out a couple of different buffet serving trays for us, Cynthia! The first one is more appealing to me because of the lids. I can't tell you how many times I've wished I had one of these then just never got around to making the purchase. Appreciate the very helpful reviews!
ReplyDeleteI did not know that these were even available but I could sure use one when the kids come home for the holidays! I think I would prefer the first one with the lids. I also like the idea that each section is separate, would make for easier storing with less space used in the fridge for any leftovers. Thank you so much for this review!
ReplyDeleteThat is an excellent point and observation Bev! You are absolutely right. The sections are much easier to store in the refrigerator.
DeleteOh Miss Cynthia, I do think you have hit upon an idea that I could really use. I love setting food out for people to nibble on and now I don't have to worry about food spoilage. That is a great idea and thank you for sharing it with me.
ReplyDeleteI can think of many occasions in the past this would have been perfect for. I don't entertain much anymore myself, but this would make a great gift for someone who does.
ReplyDeleteI love these trays. The very few times I have entertained, I have sometimes tried to place the containers into another container of ice. And those end up floating or tipping over. These are a great solution.
ReplyDeleteI have to admit that I am a firm believer in keeping the guests starving until the meal so they will be so hungry they love everything! But I do have appetizer only parties and these buffet serving trays would be perfect for those!
ReplyDelete