Chocolate Fondue

Choose fruit that's easy to hold as you dip slices into this luscious mixture. Apples, pears, strawberries and pineapple are ideal. Of course, the Mini Almond Cakes are perfect for this. Even though the menu is hands only, small skewers or toothpicks will make dipping easier and neater. The chocolate will stay soft enough for dipping for up to an hour; if it begins to set, microwave it at high for 15 to 20 seconds.

Tramezzini

These triangular sandwiches are eaten all over the Veneto region as an afternoon snack or as cicchetti (the Venetian version of tapas) with a glass of prosecco. The thin crustless sandwiches filled with colourful creamy fillings are made on a dense soft white bread; sliced potato bread is a good Canadian substitute. 

Beefy Taco Pie

If you like taco's you'll love this new and exciting way to serve them and the corn chips on top just adds a nice crunch. Kids love this meal for so many simple reasons.

Deep-Dish Apple and Pear Pie

Apples join forces with pears to create a rich, juicy pie, perfect for family dining or for potluck or buffet suppers. Use a cooking apple such as Ida Red, Northern Spy, Winesap or Gravenstein.

Poached Trout with Watercress Sauce

Ten-Minute Taco Salad with Canadian Marbled Cheddar Cheese

Three-Lily Dip and Vegetables

Three members of the lily family - onion, garlic and chives - become the basis of this creamy mild dip. Cooking tames and brings out their mild, sweet flavour. (From the "Pool Party Barbecue" menu in the August 2005 issue of Canadian Living Magazine.)

Smoked Salmon Pasta Salad

This easy tasty pasta salad is loaded with calcium. Omit the banana peppers if your child is not a fan of hot food.

Banana Greek Yogurt With Seed & Nut Topping

Beef Patties with Chimichurri Sauce

Serve with Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Tomato Salad.