main courses
Meal's primary dishes
Main courses are the central, most substantial dishes in a meal, typically served after appetizers and before dessert.
The main course usually features protein—meat, fish, or a vegetarian centerpiece—accompanied by sides: The main course was grilled salmon with roasted vegetables.
In restaurant terminology, entrée and main course are often interchangeable in American English.
Aromatic South Asian dish
- tagineEarthenware pot and stew
- paellaSaffron rice with shellfish
- risottoCreamy Italian grain dish
- ramenJapanese noodle soup
pho · bibimbap · biryani · jollof rice · rendang · mole · schnitzel · goulash
Principal dinner course
- platterLarge flat serving dish
- platingSurface metal application
- portionDivided share given
- servingMeasured food portion
menu · restaurant · bistro · eatery · diner · buffet · banquet · feast
Slow-cooked oven dish
- stewSlow-simmered meat dish
- pot roastSlow-braised beef entrée
- lasagnaBaked layered pasta dish
- shepherd's pieMeat baked under potatoes
meatloaf · chili · mac and cheese · roast chicken · pot pie · brisket · pulled pork · homestyle
Science of fine dining
- haute cuisineElevated culinary artistry
- degustationCareful tasting of foods
- tasting menuCurated sequence of small courses
- MichelinFrench tire manufacturer
epicurean · sous-vide · foie gras · truffle · caviar · artisanal · fusion · sommelier
curry
Aromatic South Asian dish
ramen · pho · bibimbap · biryani · jollof rice · rendang · mole · schnitzel · goulash · pierogi
entrée
Principal dinner course
serving · menu · restaurant · bistro · eatery · diner · buffet · banquet · feast · supper
casserole
Slow-cooked oven dish
shepherd's pie · meatloaf · chili · mac and cheese · roast chicken · pot pie · brisket · pulled pork · homestyle · hearty
gastronomy
Science of fine dining
- haute cuisineElevated culinary artistry
- degustationCareful tasting of foods
- tasting menuCurated sequence of small courses
Michelin · epicurean · sous-vide · foie gras · truffle · caviar · artisanal · fusion · sommelier · amuse-bouche
main coursesappetizers
Pre-meal small dishes
starters · hors d'oeuvres · desserts · side dishes · sides
main coursesaccompaniments
Things that go with
side dishes · sides · snacks · nibbles · finger food