Full-course dinner

A detailed overview of a full-course dinner

A full-course dinner is a meal that consists of multiple dishes or courses. In its simplest form, it can include three or four courses, but it can also extend to a more elaborate meal with up to twelve or more courses. Each course is served sequentially, and the meal is often accompanied by appropriate wine pairings.

Structure of a Full-Course Dinner

A full-course dinner is traditionally structured to provide a balanced and varied dining experience. The courses are designed to complement each other in terms of flavor, texture, and presentation.

Appetizer

The meal typically begins with an appetizer, which is a small dish served before the main courses. Appetizers are meant to stimulate the appetite and can include items such as soup, salad, or small portions of seafood.

Soup

Following the appetizer, a soup course is often served. This can range from a light consommé to a hearty bisque. The soup course is designed to warm the palate and prepare it for the subsequent courses.

Fish

In many traditional full-course dinners, a fish course follows the soup. This course features a light fish dish, often prepared with delicate sauces and garnishes.

Main Course

The main course is the centerpiece of the meal and typically features a substantial protein such as beef, chicken, or lamb. It is accompanied by vegetables and starches like potatoes or rice.

Salad

A salad course is often served after the main course. This course is intended to cleanse the palate and can include a variety of fresh greens, vegetables, and dressings.

Cheese

In some traditions, a cheese course follows the salad. This course offers a selection of cheeses, often accompanied by crackers or bread.

Dessert

The dessert course is a sweet conclusion to the meal. It can range from simple fruit dishes to elaborate pastries and cakes.

File:Semifreddo all'ananas e cocco con fragole.jpg

Semifreddo dessert with strawberries

Coffee and Digestif

The meal often concludes with coffee and a digestif, such as brandy or liqueur, to aid digestion.

Etiquette and Presentation

The presentation and etiquette of a full-course dinner are as important as the food itself. Each course is served on its own plate, and the table is set with appropriate cutlery and glassware.

File:13 course table setting American overhead view.jpg

13-course table setting overhead view

Table Setting

The table setting for a full-course dinner is elaborate, with multiple forks, knives, and spoons arranged in the order of use. Glassware is also arranged to accommodate different types of wine and other beverages.

12-course table setting

Cultural Variations

Full-course dinners vary significantly across cultures. In French cuisine, for example, the meal may include a separate course for sorbet to cleanse the palate. In Italian cuisine, the meal might feature a pasta course.

Related Pages

• Cuisine
• Gastronomy
• Wine pairing
• Table manners