Menus, when written in general format, should consist of names of dishes in which order?
A. Dessert

B. Salad

C. Side dish

D. Main dish

E. Starter / Soup
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is A

When menus are written in the general format, the order of dishes follows the natural flow of a meal, designed to optimize taste, digestion, and overall dining experience:
1. Starter/Soup (E): The meal begins with a light starter or soup. This course is meant to stimulate the appetite without overwhelming the palate. It prepares the digestive system by gently awakening taste buds and encouraging saliva production. Starters are usually simple and small in portion.
2. Main Dish (D): After the starter, the main dish is served. This is the most substantial part of the meal and often the highlight. It provides the primary source of nutrition, including proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. The main dish can vary widely but is typically more filling and flavorful than previous courses.
3. Side Dish (C): Side dishes accompany the main dish to provide balance, contrast, and additional nutrition. These may include vegetables, grains, or other complementary foods that enhance the overall flavor and texture of the meal. They help in diversifying the meal and ensuring a balanced diet.
4. Salad (B): Salad is often served after the main course, acting as a palate cleanser. The fresh, crisp textures and tangy flavors of salad can refresh the mouth and aid digestion. Serving salad at this stage lightens the meal and prepares diners for the final course.
5. Dessert (A): The meal concludes with dessert, typically a sweet dish. Desserts provide a satisfying end to the dining experience, leaving a pleasant impression. They can range from simple fruits or pastries to elaborate cakes or puddings. Desserts also signal the end of the meal and are often paired with coffee or tea.
Information Booster
The sequence of dishes is not arbitrary but is grounded in culinary science and tradition:
· Starting light helps avoid overwhelming the senses.
· Progressing to richer, heavier dishes aligns with hunger levels.
· Including palate cleansers like salad maintains flavor clarity.
· Ending with sweets satisfies cravings and psychologically signals meal completion.