When we contemplate a picnic we think about a meal that is packed up and toted to the great outdoors for serving and eating. The term also represents an event that is fun, lighthearted and simple. Just think about the often-used phrase "that was no picnic", which is used when something was difficult.But just because a picnic should be easy, it doesn't mean it can't also have some style.
Begin by putting away that old ragged blanket from your college dormitory that you always drag along on your picnic outings.For just one day forget about those peanut butter and jelly, and turkey club sandwiches, mom's potato salad recipe and brownies. You can pull those out next time. But this weekend,before you head off for your excursion to the beach, park, or mountains, invite your friends to join you for a picnic that has a little more panache than normal.
Important Reminders Before You Go
- Remember to pack your food with safety in mind. If something needs to be refrigerated at home, it needs to be kept cold on the road too. If an item is to be served hot, it should be kept hot until serving at your picnic. Use an insulated food tote or cooler to keep your food at the right temperature.
- Double check that all of your containers are covered tightly to avoid spills. For extra protection place storage containers or jars in heavy duty resealable plastic bags.
- You can pack your picnic essentials the day before your outing. These include:plates; flatware; glasses; a blanket; napkins; condiments; a trash bag; sunscreen; bug spray; possibly a corkscrew and bottle opener; a cutting board and knife if you're bringing a loaf of bread; a beach umbrella if there won't be shade at your picnic site.
- Check with local ordinances whether alcoholic beverages are permitted at your intended destination.
- For the sake of relaxation and enjoyment of the picnic by the hostess, all recipes (except for the finishing touches, as noted below) should be prepared in advance and transferred to an appropriate container for transport.
Setting the Stage
Update your picnic paraphernalia with more contemporary items. As much as the classic picnic image conjures up thoughts of French impressionist paintings with delicate floral motifs, today's gear for casual entertaining makes a bolder statement. Purchase a stylish tablecloth in a bold stripe or geometric design to serve as your backdrop. Add fun plastic or melamine dishes in contemporary colors. These days there are many more options for stylish, casual dinnerware than ever before. Acrylic glasses that are perfect for transport come in a range of stylish colors and shapes.
The Menu
Lemon Shandy - This old British lemonade recipe is not for the kids since it includes beer.
Ginger Carrot Soup - Soup and sandwich are always a great tradition, but this time bring along a refreshing, cold soup for a change of pace.
Marinated Steak and Portobello Mushroom Sandwich - A great do-ahead recipe, but don't assemble these sandwiches until you're ready to eat so that they don't turn soggy.
A loaf of crusty bread with a bowl of tapenade for topping.
Lime and Macadamia Tart - Pack the whipped cream in a separate, chilled container to dish out when the pie is served.
Assorted cold beverages.
Ice cubes that have been made with fresh or frozen raspberries inside.
