Traditionally an appetizer is a small dish or food that is eaten prior to the main course. When selecting recipes for this category, contestants should consider foods that are lower in fat, sodium, and calories so as to not ruin one’s appetite. Examples are hummus, kale chips, zesty guacamole, bruschetta, or spinach stuffed mushrooms.

The main dish is usually the heaviest, heartiest, and most substantial dish in a meal. In a meal consisting of several courses, the main dish is served during the main course and is the featured dish of the meal. The key ingredient is usually meat or another protein food, but they may contain other foods. Examples are veggie stir fry, zucchini boats, shrimp tacos, Italian spinach meatballs or beef kabobs.

Side dishes are foods that are usually served along with a main dish or as accompaniments to the main course. Suggested dishes may include salads, cooked vegetables, cooked fruit, pasta, or rice dishes, and/or combination vegetable dishes.

Healthy can still mean delicious when it comes to desserts. Dishes in this category should be served at the end of the meal or for special occasions. Contestants should modify traditional recipes with health substitutions and consider MyPlate and Dietary Guidelines when selecting recipes for this category. Examples are grilled strawberries, roasted pineapple with Greek Yogurt, Sauteed bananas, or baked apples with oatmeal and yogurt.