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Packing the perfect picnic basket |
Packing the perfect picnic basket
Hints for getting out there and enjoying spring
Winter is over, the sun is shining, the spring-cleaning list is beckoning, and you’re looking for a reason to ignore it.
We’re going on a picnic!
Great, so that’s decided. Now what? First of all, any group of two or more people eating anything in any outdoor setting is a picnic. It doesn’t have to be a highly calculated affair. Fresh bread, Sorrento® Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, and grapes between friends could be a blast.
But if you have a little more time, check the fridge and pick a theme [link to themes further down page] to kick up the fun factor. Got some fried chicken? Southern picnic. Clam chowder and beans? New England picnic. Sorrento® Fresh Mozzarella and salami? Italian picnic. Fish or hamburger and Sorrento® Mozzarella? Mexican picnic.
Just remember not to plan so much that you lose the spontaneity that makes a spring picnic fun.
Great places for a spring picnic
If you live near a botanical garden, now is the time to go. Lay out your blanket and take in nature’s renewal.
Springtime is also the perfect time to go to the zoo. The temperature is right for both comfort and moderating unpleasant odors.
National and State Parks have plenty of scenery, as well as trails, learning centers, and designated picnic spots.
Check the local paper for free festivals and concerts. They are a good way to add a live entertainment to your day.
And last but not least, the backyard. You’ll get just as much fresh air and sun, and those items you inevitably forget to bring are only a few steps away.
Speaking of what to bring, it’s good to remember the old picnicking adage: No less than you need, no more than you want. A wise approach, but a little vague, don’t you think? Fortunately, we’ve provided this dandy checklist of things you might want to have with you. Don’t try to bring them all unless you’re a long-haul trucker. Just pick and choose for the specific needs of your outing. By the way, inviting friends not only adds to the fun, it lets you reduce your responsibilities by delegating a few things on your list.
Picnic list
Necessities:
The Basket Don't use bags. They will get squished and torn, then fly away in the wind. Use any strong basket or cooler. Something that can double as a small table is best. For perishables, remember that the coldest part of a cooler is on the bottom. Pack meats and cheeses there.
Food and beverages A picnic is much less fun without them.
Ground cover The old vinyl-backed tablecloth you don’t use any more is perfect, but any large cloth will do.
Blanket You may need more than one if your picnic lasts until the cool spring evening arrives.
Eating utensils Forks, knives, spoons, plates, cups, bowls, etc.
Serving utensils Large spoons or forks for dishing up.
A sharp knife And a small cutting board or plastic cutting mat.
Corkscrew For those who imbibe.
Bottle opener For those who don’t.
Salt and pepper
Condiments
Paper towels or hand towels
Large trash bag For clean up.
If you plan on grilling:
Grill or hibachi
Charcoal
Fire starter or lighter fluid
Matches/lighter
Barbecue tongs, meat fork
Serving platters
Baking soda For fire safety.
Extras:
Hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Fun stuff A kite, baseball and gloves, Frisbee, croquet set, a deck of cards, crossword puzzles, sketch pad, books and magazines
Bandages
Insect repellent
Moist towelettes
Portable radio or CD player
Portable chairs
Camera For the memories.
Keep in mind, a spring picnic should be fun, not a source of stress. Use your imagination, but keep it simple. The most important thing is getting out there. Spring cleaning can wait.
Theme menus
Southern
Fried Chicken
Cornbread
Sweet Pickle Potato Salad
Red Velvet Cake
Sweet Tea
New England
Clam Chowder and Crackers
Boston Baked Beans
Crisp Apples
Sorrento® Sticksters® Cheddar Cheese Sticks
Lemonade
Italian
Caprese Salad or Antipasto w/
Sorrento® Fresh Mozzarella
Prosciutto and Butter on Crusty Bread
Fresh fruit
Chianti
Mexican
Chicken Tortillas w/
Shredded Sorrento® Mozzarella
Guacamole and Chips
Sangria |
