We, as parents, may go through empty nest syndrome. The first, generally, occurs when a child goes off to college or moves out of the parents’ home. The second can occur after planning and paying for a child’s wedding. Cheer up the mother and father of the bride or groom with an ‘After the Wedding Party.’ Since something blue is encouraged as a wedding tradition, I recommend shades of cheery yellow.

Pineapples represent friendship and are most versatile when serving cuisine. One beautiful presentation is to serve each person’s salad in a carved pineapple half. The pineapple half can be filled with mango chicken salad or a fruit salad. Another delightful presentation is to bake the pineapple halves with pineapple cake. ( It is important to cover the stalk with foil while baking.) An additional option for a friendship support is to offer Pineapple Friendship Dip.

Pineapple Friendship Dip
Hull out a pineapple half, leaving the stalk.
In a bowl, mix 16 oz. of soft cream cheese, 3 Tablespoons of chopped French chives and one 8 -oz. can of crushed pineapple (drained). Add 1 cup chopped bell pepper, 2 tablespoons minced onion and celery salt to taste. Mix and chill thoroughly.
Fill the pineapple half with the dip. Symmetrically cover the dip with a layer of toasted almond slices.
Serve chilled with plantain and baked chips.