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How to Create a Seafood Platter

 

The Team

by The Team

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How to Create a Seafood Platter: The Ultimate Guide for Entertaining

Are you looking to impress your guests with a stunning, fresh seafood platter? Whether it’s for a special occasion, a casual gathering, or just a luxurious treat, creating a seafood platter can be easier than you think. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create a seafood platter that’s visually stunning, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

Why a Seafood Platter is the Perfect Entertaining Choice

Seafood platters are a showstopper at any event. They are:

  • Versatile: Perfect for brunch, lunch, dinner, or cocktail parties.

  • Customisable: Include your favourite prawns, oysters, scallops, and more.

  • Elegant: A visually appealing centerpiece that requires minimal preparation.

Plus, a well-prepared seafood platter is not only delicious but also a healthy choice, packed with protein, omega-3s, and essential nutrients.

Step 1: Choose Your Seafood Selection

The key to an impressive seafood platter is variety. Include a mix of flavours, textures, and colours. Here are some popular options:

  • Prawns: Sweet, juicy, and versatile. Serve boiled, grilled, or marinated.

  • Oysters: Raw or baked, they’re a classic crowd-pleaser.

  • Moreton Bay Bugs: Mild and tender, perfect for an elevated touch.

  • Smoked Salmon: Rich, delicate, and adds colour to your platter.

  • Caviar: A luxurious addition for a gourmet touch.

Tip: Include at least 3–5 types of seafood for a balanced platter.

Step 2: Prepare Your Seafood

  • Prawns: Peel and devein, leaving the tail on for presentation.

  • Oysters: Shuck fresh oysters carefully and keep them chilled.

  • Moreton Bay Bugs: Split in half, lightly brush with garlic butter.

  • Smoked Salmon: Slice thinly and fold elegantly on the platter.

  • Caviar: Serve in small bowls or on blinis for a luxurious bite.

Make sure your seafood is fresh and high-quality, ideally sourced from a trusted fishmonger.

Step 3: Select Your Platter and Presentation

Presentation is everything! Here’s how to assemble:

  • Use a large platter or wooden board.

  • Arrange seafood in sections or in a circular pattern.

  • Add ice or a bed of seaweed to keep shellfish cold.

  • Garnish with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and edible flowers for a pop of colour.

Tip: Vary heights and textures to create a visually stunning display.

Step 4: Add Accompaniments

Complement your seafood with simple sides and sauces:

  • Dips & Sauces: Aioli, cocktail sauce, mignonette, or lemon butter.

  • Bread & Crackers: Serve with crusty bread, baguette slices, or crackers.

  • Pickles & Veggies: Pickled cucumbers, radishes, or fresh herbs add freshness.

 

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Keep your seafood platter chilled until serving, and place it in the center of your table for a shareable, interactive experience. Encourage guests to start with oysters or prawns and enjoy the platter slowly while mingling.

Tips for a Show-Stopping Seafood Platter

  1. Balance colours and textures: Mix soft, firm, and crunchy elements.

  2. Include variety: Different shellfish, raw and cooked options.

  3. Keep it fresh: Serve seafood on ice or chilled.

  4. Go gourmet: Add luxury touches like caviar or lobster tails.

  5. Personalise: Incorporate seasonal or local seafood for extra flavour.

Creating a seafood platter doesn’t have to be intimidating. By choosing fresh seafood, preparing it carefully, and presenting it beautifully, you can serve an elegant and delicious platter that impresses every guest.

Whether it’s for a holiday gathering, special occasion, or a casual weekend treat, a seafood platter is the ultimate way to elevate any event.

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