When should dessert be served with food?

Dessert is typically served after the main course of a meal, not with it. This is because:

* Palate cleansing: Serving dessert after the main course allows your palate to be cleansed of the previous flavors, allowing you to appreciate the sweetness and unique flavors of the dessert.

* Digestive process: The digestive process is different for sweet and savory foods. Eating dessert alongside the main course can disrupt this process.

* Traditional practice: This is the standard practice in most cultures and culinary traditions.

However, there are some exceptions and considerations:

* Cultural variations: Some cultures may serve dessert alongside the main course, such as in parts of Latin America or the Middle East.

* Personal preference: Ultimately, it's up to you and your guests' preferences. If you prefer to have dessert with your meal, that's perfectly fine.

* Course structure: If you're having a multi-course meal, you might serve a small dessert course in between savory courses, but this is less common.

If you're unsure about the best way to serve dessert, it's always safe to err on the side of tradition and serve it after the main course.