Cold plate facts for kids

A cold plate is a yummy meal that comes from Newfoundland, a province in Canada. People often eat it for lunch or dinner. It's super popular at big parties like weddings and community events!

Two cold plates.

One cool thing about cold plates is that you can make most of it ahead of time. This makes them perfect for large gatherings. They are also often sold at community fundraisers in Newfoundland to help raise money for local causes.

What is a Cold Plate?

A cold plate is a special kind of meal served cold, as its name suggests! It's not just one food item, but a mix of different tasty things all on one plate. Think of it like a mini buffet, but served to you.

Where Did Cold Plates Come From?

Cold plates started in the countryside of Newfoundland, Canada. This area is known for its unique food traditions. Over time, the cold plate became a favorite dish for many people there.

What's on a Cold Plate?

A typical cold plate has a mix of different foods. It's a balanced meal with meats, salads, and a roll. Here’s what you might find:

• Meats: You usually get a serving of sliced turkey, ham, and roast beef.
• Pasta Salad: A creamy pasta salad is a common side.
• Potato Salads: There are often different kinds of mashed potato salads, like:
  • Beet salad (made with beets, which are purple vegetables)
  • Mustard salad (with a hint of mustard flavor)
  • Vegetable salad (a mix of veggies)

Making many cold plates for a big community event in Newfoundland, Canada.

• Fresh Greens: A bit of fresh lettuce and sliced tomato often add a crisp touch.
• Dressing: A special kind of turkey stuffing, made with a herb called Newfoundland Savory, is often served as a dressing.
• Cranberry Sauce: Sometimes, a little cranberry sauce is added for a sweet and tart flavor.
• Dinner Roll: A soft, fresh-baked white bread roll is usually included.
• Jelly Salad: This is a sweet and jiggly salad, often made with Jell-O.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy salad made from shredded cabbage and carrots, mixed with a creamy dressing.

Why Are Cold Plates So Popular?

Cold plates are loved for a few reasons:

• Easy to Prepare: You can make most of the parts of a cold plate ahead of time. This saves a lot of work when you need to feed many people.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Because they are easy to prepare in advance, cold plates are great for big events like weddings, family reunions, or community parties.
• Community Support: Selling cold plates is a popular way for communities in Newfoundland to raise money for schools, churches, or other local projects. It’s a tasty way to help out!