Pack It Up: It's Picnic Time!

There's nothing like al fresco dining. Italian for "outside, at a fresh temperature," taking a meal outside just implies a fun, casual approach to eating. 

I have absolutely no idea what is happening here...
but I want to be there.

When the time and the place is right, my favorite outdoor meal is a picnic. What I love about a picnic is that it's all about the planning and not about the effort. If you want to make incredible homemade treats for your picnic, you certainly may. Or, if you want to simply organize and enjoy the fruits of your non-labor, outsource that s***.

GREAT PICKS FOR PICNIC FARE

• Assorted cheeses, cured meats, crackers
• Olives, pickles and nuts
• Grape leaves, hummus and other Mediterranean nibbles from the deli
• Pre-made pasta salad, cous cous or potato salad
• Tuna or chicken salad (add a little curry to give these a new 'zip')
• Ingredients for guests to make their own sandwiches: assorted cold cuts, cheeses, breads, lettuce, tomato and a few mustards, mayos and other sandwich spreads
• Pick up a frozen pound cake from the grocery; allow it to thaw. Bring whipped cream, hazelnut spread (like Nutella), chocolate syrup and fresh berries for toppings.

Our recent Napa Valley picnic. I learned that the more wine
you drink, the more fabulous you think the picnic is.

PICNIC PACKING TIPS

1. As with any outdoor meal, be aware of temperatures. For chilled foods, make them ahead and store them in an ice-packed cooler. On ice, these foods can safely last for 4 - 6 hours (if not longer) without being compromised. 
2. In lieu of ice, use frozen ice packs. They won't make a soggy mess out of your picnic cooler. If you do use ice, place each of your food containers in a seal-able plastic bag, like a quart or gallon-size plastic zipper bag. This will ensure they stay dry.
3. Don't forget the essentials: plates, cups, napkins and cutlery. Bringing the real stuff elevates the experience but disposable is acceptable, too. It's also nice to bring platters or bowls for serving. (I mean, if you didn't cook any of it, at least you can make it look pretty by arranging it on a plate, right?) Cutting boards are excellent for slicing and displaying foods. Make sure you also bring a sharp knife, wrapped in a dishtowel for safety.
4. Finally, bring a blanket and a trash bag for your garbage. With these 2 items, you don't need tables or trash cans to determine where you lay out your spread.

The great thing about a picnic is that it can be as extravagant or as easy as you like. Whether it's bologna sandwiches or bolognese pasta, enjoy dining in the great outdoors at least once this season!