Which serving utensil is used for serving items without liquid?

The correct choice identifies a slotted spoon as the utensil used for serving items without liquid. A slotted spoon is designed with holes or slots that allow liquids to drain away, making it ideal for serving solid items, such as vegetables or pasta that might be accompanied by some residual moisture but not sitting in a large quantity of liquid. This feature helps in portioning solid foods effectively while minimizing excess liquid in each serving.

In contrast, the other options serve different purposes. A serving fork is typically used for lifting and serving larger cuts of meat or salads but does not have the drainage capability of the slotted spoon. A ladle is specifically designed for serving liquids such as soups or stews, making it unsuitable for solid items without liquid. Lastly, a spatula is primarily used for flipping or lifting items from a cooking surface, and while it can serve solid foods, it does not offer the same control over liquid drainage as a slotted spoon does.