There are some rules of thumb for food presentation on a platter. One of the top rules is to use the appropriate platter size for the food you’re serving. Don’t choose a platter so small the food overhangs the lip or rim, and don’t use one so large that it looks like some of the food is already gone.; Build height on a platter, especially when serving a large quantity of smaller items. Add color with garnishes, fruits, and vegetables. A sprinkling of parsley around a roast turkey goes a long way.