Skip the Paper Plates, These 'Indestructible' Dishes Are Perfect for Outdoor Entertaining

Longer days and warmer nights mean more opportunities to dine al fresco. Although paper plates are convenient and perfectly adequate for the outdoor table, they aren't always the most elegant choice. Instead, opt for melamine dinnerware, a category of remarkably stylish and sturdy dishes that look and feel more like "real" plates.

Melamine resin is incredibly durable; not only is it chip- and scratch-resistant, but it won't shatter into sharp pieces if dropped or broken. It's also lightweight, yet feels substantial enough to hold the weight of heavier meats or a pile of saucy pasta without buckling. Best of all, melamine can look just like stoneware or china, but is usually a fraction of the cost.

There are literally hundreds of design options for melamine dishes, but look no further than Amazon Basics' 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set. Both chic and affordable, it's available in over 25 colors and shapes, from simple solids to more intricate designs. Plus, it has more than 2,000 perfect ratings from users, so you know it's bound to impress.

To buy: Amazon Basics 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set, $36 at amazon.com

This set includes service for four—a 10.5-inch dinner plate, a 9-inch salad plate, and a 7.5-inch bowl. Fans of a classic silhouette can choose from a rainbow of crackle glazes (like this gorgeous blue), while other solid glaze options come with a rustic edge. For more detailed designs, you can go for a floral motif or these Tuscan-inspired dishes that "look like much more expensive Italian dishes," according to one shopper.

Reviewers call these dishes "indestructible," even when tested in the slippery hands of small children. And though this set is primarily designed for outdoor use, they can certainly be used indoors just like regular earthenware or china. The lightweight build of these dishes make them a great choice for anyone who finds traditional stoneware too heavy. While shoppers noted that they aren't suitable for use in the microwave, they are top rack dishwasher-safe, and can also be easily washed by hand (which can also help preserve the life of the finish).

Want to get your hands on this stylish set for your next backyard event? Scroll down to check out a few of the designs, or head over to Amazon to add the Amazon Basics 12-Piece Melamine Dinner Set to your cart.