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A Picnic Dinner in the Park

A Picnic Dinner Menu

By Donna Pilato, About.com

Many of these recipes can be made a day ahead of your picnic dinner outing. Even the crab cakes can be mixed, shaped and refrigerated the day before. Just cook them right before leaving for the picnic and transport them in a warmer that will keep them hot until ready to serve.

Pack your food carefully to avoid leaks. If you layer the food in the reverse order in which courses will be eaten, dishes will not need to be disturbed until you are ready for them.

A Picnic Dinner Menu

The PAMA-TIKI Cocktail - Bring along a thermos filled with this unique, refreshing, summer cocktail. Don't forget the ice!

South of the Border White Bean Dip - Spicy food is enjoyed in hot climates as a way for the locals to cool down from the heat. Try this recipe on a balmy summer night and test this theory for yourself. Serve with toasted pita wedges.

Traditional Crab Cakes '21' Club - Make sure you pack these carefully since this recipe doesn't use much filler to hold the crabmeat together. They're well worth the extra care.

Sweet Cucumber and Mandarin Orange Salad Recipe - A cooling and colorful accompaniment.

Warm Potato Salad with Caramelized Onions - This is a lighter version of German potato salad.

Mocha Cheesecake - Cheesecake travels well and offers a decadent finish to a flavorful, summer meal.

Assorted beverages such as water, soft drinks, iced tea, beer and wine.

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