A hosting hack you'll use all year
- Shannon Nelson
- Dec 22, 2025
- 1 min read
When hosting any gathering from holiday parties to summer get-togethers keeping appetizers fresh can be a challenge. A simple hosting hack: place ice in a shallow tray, baking dish, or bowl underneath your serving platter. It keeps food cool without any special equipment.
Why this works
Keeps food fresh longer: Perfect for dips, cheese, shrimp, and other items that shouldn’t sit at room temperature.
Easy & budget-friendly: Use what you already have and just add ice.
Flexible for any setup: Works with serving trays, bowls, and platters of all sizes.
Still looks pretty: Tuck the ice dish underneath or conceal it with a towel or decorative tray.
This easy ice-under-tray trick is a year-round hosting hack that lets you focus on enjoying your guests while your appetizers stay fresh and party-ready.
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