There is something about abandoning the formalities of the dining room and taking it outdoors that just makes food taste better. Utensils are optional, so are tables and chairs. Suddenly, what matters most isn't a pressed linen tablecloth or shiny glassware, but a beautiful view, the fresh air and the shade of a tree.
One of the joys of a picnic is that there are no hard rules. I especially love picnics on a Sunday sunny afternoon. A reward at the end of a long week of slaving away to meet deadlines, a romantic relaxed date between lovers, or a break at the end of a long hike. There are so many good reasons to take it outside. And from a practical standing point, cleaning up isn't much of an issue. No dusting the house before the guests arrive or washing of a mile-high pile of dishes hours after they depart.
Perhaps the hardest things about a picnic is deciding what food to carry. Heavy meals are out because you have to think about what will hold up for a couple of hours out of the fridge and does not need to be heated.
Although the casual element of a picnic often reduces your meal options, there are plenty of ways to create a picnic that is more memorable than a meal at the dinning table.
Here are some of my favorite things to park for a picnic;
A homemade sandwich or salad is best for such an occasion.
An assortment of fruits e.g strawberries, blueberries, apples, bananas e.t.c.
A refreshing drink. Food may be the centerpiece of a good picnic, but don't neglect the beverage choice. Although winter picnics call for a thermos of hot tea or cocoa, most picnicking is done when the summer sun is out. On a hot Sunday afternoon, a good refreshing drink can be highlight of the menu.
A book or magazine for your perusal. Especially when alone. A good playlist will also go all way in setting the mood. You can even add some flowers. Although the whole point of a picnic is to keep it simple, there’s nothing wrong with adding a little something to set the mood.
If there are no facilities in the area, bring moist towelettes or antibacterial gel. Add paper towels as well.
Picnic linen/blanket.
And last but not least, don't forget the water. If you can, keep a cooler full of bottled water and ice cubes. You want to stay hydrated under the sun.
Once you are prepared, it’s time to get it ready to go. A good selection of airtight plastic containers is essential to have on hand. Not only do they keep things fresh, they keep more delicate items like vegetables and fruit from getting crushed. Tiny containers are perfect for storing salad dressings until it’s time to dress the salad. As for the sandwiches, plastic wrap is fine.
Have fun!
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