How to Properly Use Silverware and Dinnerware

Are you having a big formal dinner and need to know how to set the table? First thing you should know is there is no single way to correctly set a table. Most of us are familiar with casual and informal settings. The different settings allow us the flexibility to mix and match dinnerware patterns, flatware and glassware. However, you should know the proper rules just in case. This article will teach you how to properly use silverware and dinnerware.

Step 1

According to What’s Cooking America, there are many simple rules to setting your table. Your drink is placed on the right. Any food dish to the left is yours. At formal dinners, the food is served from the left and the dishes are to be removed from the right.

Beginning with the utensil (knife, fork, or spoon) that is farthest from your plate, work your way to the inside, using one utensil for each course. The salad fork is on your outermost left, followed by your dinner fork. The soup spoon is on your outermost right, followed by your beverage spoon, salad knife and dinner knife. Your dessert spoon and fork are above your plate or brought out with dessert. If you remember to work from the outside in, you'll be fine.

Step 2

Also, you must choose one of two eating approaches when using a fork and knife, American or European style.

American style - Knife in right hand, fork in left hand holding food.  After a few bite-sized pieces of food are cut, place knife on edge of plate with blades facing in. Eat food by switching fork to right hand (unless you are left handed).

European style - Knife in right hand, fork in left hand.  Eat food with fork still in left hand. The difference is that you don't switch hands-you eat with your fork in your left hand, with the prongs curving downward.

Step 3

Once used, your utensils, including the handles, should not touch the table again. Always rest forks, knives, and spoons on the side of your plate or in the bowl. For more formal dinners, from course to course, your tableware will be taken away and replaced as needed.

Step 4

To signal that your are done with the course, rest your fork, tines up, and knife blade in, with the handles resting at five o'clock an tips pointing to ten o'clock on your plate. Any unused silverware is simply left on the table.

Step 5

Remember, there is no single way to correctly set a table so set a table that is functional for your serving needs and pleasing to your eye.

Whats Cooking America

http://whatscookingamerica.net/Menu/DiningEtiquetteGuide.htm