Picnics can be a delightful way to spend an afternoon. Whether it’s a getaway in a secluded location with a spectacular view, or a picnic in the park with a concert or other attractions, spring, summer, and even warm fall weather provide perfect opportunities for dining outside. For some, packing a picnic can seem like a daunting task. When faced with this large, empty basket, you suddenly have no idea what to put in it that won’t immediately be ruined. In reality, packing a picnic lunch can be a snap, with something for everyone, from the most avid gourmands, to the staunchest lovers of your basic PB&J. Here are five great ideas for packing the perfect picnic.
Bring Your Basics
If you’re packing a picnic for kids, their food choices tend to be on the more basic side. String cheese, apple slices, and sandwiches are all great basics to have on hand, but you can also take a few minutes to pack a clever and creative lunch for them. Use cookie cutters to cut their sandwiches into fun shapes and make fun animal shapes out of other foods. Try one of these ideas for pinwheel sandwiches. While you may not have the time or skill to get this creative, you can take some inspiration from these amazing fruit art ideas.
Meats and Cheese
A selection of meats and fine cheeses is the perfect meal for any picnic basket. If your meat is not already pre-sliced, be sure and include a small cutting board or go extra fancy with this on-the-go Ascot cutting board with clever tools for all your serving needs. You can either serve the meats and cheeses with crackers or with fresh baked breads straight from Klosterman Baking Company.
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Salads
Salads are a delightful summertime meal and are great for picnics. You can opt for traditional lettuce salads, fruit salads, or even meat salads such as tuna or chicken salad. Whip up a batch ahead of time, put it in a glass or plastic traveling container and use an insulated carrier. Pair your salad with fresh baked rolls or baguettes for a delicious meal you can take anywhere.
Fried Chicken
Fried Chicken is a basic picnic staple in the South. Try a recipe for gourmet fried chicken and pair it with traditional potato salad, macaroni salad, or try something a little more adventurous like a squash and pasta mixture salad.
Going on a picnic is a great outing for the whole family. Even your lunch hour at work can become a fun picnic at the park with these recipes and ideas.
