There’s more to preparing for a picnic than just tossing a few bottles of water, some sandwiches, fruit and treats into a picnic basket. If you’re going to do it, you might as well do it up right.
If you have no idea where to start, or simply want some new suggestions, we’ve got tips on everything from food prep to cleanup.
A Tisket, a Tasket…
Who says a picnic basket has to be a basket? While a wicker basket may be aesthetically pleasing, an alternative might be more practical. If you’re headed to the beach, a cooler — especially one with large wheels that can navigate in soft sand — might be a better choice. If you’re hiking to your picnic destination, an insulated backpack might be the way to go.
Packing Basics
Similar to packing a suitcase, you’ll find there’s both an art and a science to packing a picnic basket or container. It’s a scientific fact that hot air rises, so many food experts recommend packing chilled beverages or ice packs on top of your food to keep it cool.
However, if you don’t want to risk crushing your food, you may want to rethink that strategy. Some people prefer to pack the items they’ll use first at the top of the picnic basket. This avoids having to dig through layers of contents in order to find what you need.
Picnic Essentials
Chances are your picnic destination isn’t around the corner. That means you’ve got to pack everything you need, since you can’t just run home for something you forgot. It’s a good idea to make a checklist of the essentials:
● Paper plates, cups, napkins
● Plastic eating and serving utensils
● Reclosable plastic storage bags for leftovers
● Picnic blanket or large sheet
● Beverages (you’ll want to stay hydrated)
● Ice packs (better yet, freeze your drinks; they’ll stay cool, and so will your food)
● Food!
● Condiments
● Bug repellant, UV-filtering sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, Benadryl for allergies,
adhesive bandages
● Portable lights if you plan on staying past dusk
● Trash bags for cleanup
● Hand sanitizer and/or wipes
● Bottle opener if you’re serving wine
● Water bowl and food if you’re bringing your dog
● Matches, charcoal (if you’re planning on grilling)
Food for Thought
When it comes to picnic food, potato salad, cole slaw and macaroni salad are often the first things that come to mind. There’s nothing wrong with tradition, but why not add a few twists to your picnic menu?
● Instead of macaroni salad, try pasta salad topped with grated Il Villaggio® P.D.O Asiago D’Allevo Vecchio
● Instead of cole slaw, try an antipasto plate, filled with charcuterie, grilled veggies and a variety of cheeses, including Il Villaggio® P.D.O. Grana Padano
● Instead of fruit salad, try strawberries stuffed with sweet, creamy Il Villaggio® Mascarpone
● Instead of cheese and crackers, try cheese and cherry tomato skewers using Il Villaggio® Mozzarella di Bufala
● Instead of PB&J and trail mix, try no-bake protein balls
Finger foods are always popular, especially with children. Keep a plastic container of cut-up veggies on hand. Non-perishable foods, such as nuts, are also a good choice. Just be mindful of anyone with allergies.
Love those libations!
You’ll want to have beer or wine (or both) for the adults. Lighter beers and white wines are a good choice for picnics, even if you and your guests prefer bolder flavor profiles. Beer and wine should be served chilled, for a refreshing diversion from the heat.
Alcoholic beverages will dehydrate you, however, so be sure to alternate drinking bottles of beer/glasses of wine with equal amounts of water. And don’t drink on an empty stomach. If you’re ready to toss back a few before the food is served, just nibble on some cheeses, grapes and nuts. Here are a few suggestions of which cheese to pair with summer beers and wines:
Beer pairings:
Mascarpone with pilsners
Gorgonzola Piccante with an amber ale
Grana Padano with citrus-y wheat beers
Parmigiano Reggiano with lagers
Wine pairings:
Mascarpone with chardonnay
Mozzarella with sauvignon blanc
Gorgonzola Dolce with sparkling wine
Parmigiano Reggiano with cabernet sauvignon
What If…
The one thing you can’t control is the weather. You can pack a tarpaulin in case the ground is wet. Or look for a covered pavilion to provide shelter if a downpour is imminent.
Try not to let the elements ruin your perfect picnic. If the weather looks ominous before you head out, opt for Picnic Plan B. Simply spread out your picnic blanket on the den floor and proceed to have an indoor picnic!
