Achieve Picnic Perfection

Maybe it’s just me, but take any meal outside and it instantly becomes more vibrant, engaging and delicious. Picnics can take all shapes — a quick but peaceful break from work by a lake, a romantic sunset dinner for two complete with delicious wine or a fun afternoon family affair. My toddler and I go hiking almost every day. Our favorite hikes are those that end in a flavorful spread on a blanket with our favorite foods, which usually ends up being a mix of delicious homemade dishes and convenient, tasty items I pick up at the store so we can pack in a flash and hit the trails.

Picnics are a great equalizer — you don’t have to be a great cook (or even cook at all, for that matter), to have a wonderful picnic meal.

Tips for picnic success is in the bag (or basket)

Insulated containers and cold packs will be your friend on hot days. Delight children by freezing juice boxes the night before so they stay cold. And filling an extra thermos with ice water never hurts either.
Pack a lightweight cutting board and paring knife or pocket knife for last minute prep. And don’t forget utensils!
Pack it in and pack it out. Don’t forget to bring a receptacle for trash, recycling and compost so you can leave your picnic site as lovely for the next visitors.
A sun hat, sunscreen, hand sanitizer and bug repellent are must-haves.
Fun for later — don’t forget a ball, Frisbee, kite or bubbles to continue the merriment after mealtime.

Picnic items worth picking up

I love to cook, but keeping up with a toddler means I don’t always get to have everything homemade and do all the things we both love. Here are some items I’m happy to pick up when I’m shopping at Whole Foods Market to keep the taste and quality up to my standards, while also freeing up my time:

Freshly baked baguette
Hard cheese (they hold up better out of the fridge). What’s in my picnic basket this year? Parmigiano Reggiano. It’s the best, and it’s wonderful on its own or paired with just about anything.
Sliced meats
Fresh fruit (Francique mangoes and Gold Nugget tangerines for sure!) and cut veggies
Chicken salad and pimento cheese are my favorites on either a croissant or whole grain bread

And for when it’s a happy hour or dinner picnic with my husband, I like to add:

Presto Sparkling Cuvée. Canned wine is on-trend right now and is lightweight and convenient for outdoor drinking adventures.
Theo Chocolate bars. I’m digging the Almond Coconut 65% Dark Chocolate one! I love that they’re fair trade and organic.
Screw top rosé wine such as Conde Valdemar Rosé and Globerati Rosé.