Different Types of Plates And When To Use Them

While plates are the First Lady of any kitchen, instigating any kitchen project, “plating” your dishes is a serious job. So far that it holds the power to make or break the approach of your dish. You might have opened this blog particularly to learn about plates or just to get a general understanding about platting, either way, we are here to help you out.

But Is Having a Variety Of Plates a Necessity?

We believe everyone can benefit from learning about the rules of dining irrespective of who they are. The usage of plates is one of the first lessons you encounter when learning about it. Think of plates as frames, each portrait needs its own. The same goes for plates. Any sauces, curry, or fries would look appetizing only when the colors of the plate vouch for it. You cannot pair white sauce pasta with a white ceramic plate. Similarly, you cannot serve nachos on a rice plate. 

So now that we have cleared why you need to clear your pantry for some new plates, let's discuss your options. 

Appetizer Plates:

What are they?
Appetizer plates are petite platforms designed to showcase tantalizing starters and hors d'oeuvres.

How to use them?
They go very well in cocktail parties and gatherings for bite-sized snacks or munchies. They maintain tidiness and because of their shape, they make the snacks appear in larger amounts despite being just the right size.

Bread and Butter Plates:

What are they? 
These dainty plates are designated for individual servings of bread or rolls, accompanied by a dollop of butter.

How to use them? 
You can use them in formal dinners, or put them in daily use. They are also widely used in bakeries. They add a touch of sophistication while ensuring that each guest enjoys their share of the breadbasket without overcrowding their main plate.

Charger Plates:

What are they? 
Charger plates, though not for direct serving, serve as decorative bases beneath dinner plates, enhancing the visual appeal of the table setting.

How to use them? 

Layer them beneath the main dinner plate to create depth and elegance. They enhance the presentation of your meal and protect table linens, making them essential for gatherings and special occasions.

Soup Plates:

What are they? 
Deeper than traditional plates, soup plates are tailored for serving liquid-based dishes such as soups, stews, and bisques.

How to use them? 
They are used for an array of dishes. Soups, broths, and stews are just to name a few. Their depth provides ample room for ladles and spoons, prioritizing comfort in slurping down the dish easily without a mess.

Salad Plates/Bowls:

What are they? 
Smaller than dinner plates, salad plates or bowls are designed for individual portions of fresh salads or appetizers.

How to use them? 
Use different color plates for various types of salads and appetizers on these plates to stimulate the palate before the main course. Their modest size promotes portion control while accentuating the colors and textures of the dish.

Pasta Plates:

What are they?
Shallow and wide, pasta plates are tailored for generous servings of pasta and sauce, allowing for effortless twirling and enjoyment.

How to use them? 
Use them to serve saucy pastas, pizzas, tortillas, and more. Their ample surface area accommodates toppings and garnishes, adding to the visual appeal of the dish.

Rice Plates:

What are they? 
Featuring a shallow design with a slight indent, rice plates are ideal for presenting rice-based dishes like fried rice, pilaf, or risotto.

How to use them? 
These plates allow you to bring hefty rice dish quantities in one go. Their ergonomic design ensures ease of serving and consumption, making them a staple for any cuisine.

Luncheon Plates:

What are they? 
Smaller than dinner plates, luncheon plates are perfect for serving light meals or brunch fare.

How to use them? 
Set a casual yet refined table with luncheon plates, offering comfort and elegance for midday meals. They strike the perfect balance between form and function, making them suitable for everyday use or informal gatherings.

Dinner Plates:

What are they? 
The quintessential dinnerware, dinner plates are versatile enough to accommodate a variety of main courses, from hearty roasts to delicate entrees.

How to use them? 
Select dinner plates that complement your table setting and the theme of your meal. They serve as the focal point of the dining experience, providing a canvas for culinary creativity and expression.

Dessert Plates:

What are they? 
Smaller in size than dinner plates, dessert plates are reserved for serving sweet indulgences such as cakes, pastries, and fruit.

How to use them? 
Conclude your meal on a sweet note by presenting desserts on these plates. Their petite size encourages moderation while allowing guests to savor the decadence of the final course.

By diversifying your plate collection, you not only enhance the functionality of your dining experience but also elevate the artistry and ambiance of your meals. Each plate type serves a distinct purpose, contributing to the harmony of flavors, textures, and presentation at your table. So, the next time you set the stage for a culinary adventure, consider the role that each plate plays in crafting an unforgettable dining experience.