Munich - Try using vegetable leaves and the hulls of fruits instead of plates and bowls to give your next party an organic touch.

The firm leaves of a savoy cabbage can replace a small bowl, said an article in a German women's magazine published in Munich. The leaves separate easily from the stalk and are an ideal substitute for antipasto plates.

Hollowed out lemon and lime rinds make pretty salt and pepper shakers. They also give the salt and pepper the scent of citrus. And a watermelon rind can be carefully cut into the shape of a basket and hollowed out, making an ideal container for a fruit salad.

The natural dishes are not only eye-catching on the buffet, they also have a very practical advantage: They can either be eaten or thrown into the composter, saving a lot of time and effort when cleaning up. (dpa)