palate cleanser
noun1
A serving of food or drink intended to remove food residue from the tongue, typically served between courses so that the diner can more accurately assess a new flavour.
- Pickled ginger is used as a palate cleanser between sushi pieces.
2
Broadly, Figuratively Anything that serves as a temporary break or variation from the norm.
- Working something like the Sloan case would get justice for a family and serve as a palate cleanser for me.2021, Tom Fowler, Right as Rain: