Le Creuset Stoneware Petite Casserole

I had been searching for the ideal vessel to hold kosher salt on my kitchen counter, and this petite casserole is sturdy enough to do the trick. I was disappointed that this item isn't made in France like other Le Creuset products -- it's from southeast Asia -- but it still captures the essential Le Creuset style and adds some welcome color against my dark granite countertops.

I've got just about every Le Creuset color in existence, so why not try out kiwi? It's an oddball color, I think, but this little casserole is soooo cute. I used my petite casseroles recently for serving French onion soup & it's an excellent individual serving size for this. Keeps the soup warm and I was able to put them all in the oven to broil momentarily for the Swiss cheese & slice of French bread on top. It's rather expensive for the size, though, so it gets knocked down one star for price.

I ordered this item with some trepidation as it was not well reviewed. My sense was the reviews were the result of initial color mis-shipments and it turns out that I received the blue item I ordered.

To be sure, it is barely larger than an ashtray but the design and color perfectly match other Le Creuset pieces. It would be good for custards or condiments or servings of fruit, vegatables, custard or pudding (yes, I know this is not conventional). Basically it is well priced for a quality product. It show both utility and decor. And earns its five stars.