There is something undeniably enchanting about gathering with loved ones amid nature’s embrace, armed with wicker baskets and gingham blankets, ready to revel in the sunshine and warm weather. From a jumble of salads to sliced watermelon dripping with sweet juice, the art of the picnic is a stalwart American tradition. Here are a few tips to make the most of this year’s summer picnic season.
Choose the Right Location
In the 19th century, picnicking at gravesites was popular. This was especially true for Memorial Day, known as Decoration Day in the aftermath of the Civil War, when family members tended the graves of lost loved ones. While a cemetery may not be your first choice for a picnic, there are some other tips to keep in mind.Look for a location that offers a picturesque setting with natural beauty, such as a park with lush greenery, a beach with stunning views, or a field studded with wildflowers. Aim for flat-lying ground with plenty of grass and lots of shade.
Remember the Essentials
Start with a washable blanket to provide a clean and comfortable seating area. Ice packs are helpful for keeping perishable food fresh and cold in a cooler. Bring along cups, plates, and utensils for serving and enjoying food and beverages. Napkins come in handy for wiping hands and surfaces, while trash bags help keep the picnic area tidy and make cleanup effortless. You’ll likely need more than you think, so pack extra.Choose a Picnic-Savvy Menu
The trick to any good picnic is food that keeps well, doesn’t need heating, and is equally delicious served cold or at room temperature. Finger foods such as cold fried chicken, sandwiches, or devilled eggs are classic choices.Chopped vegetable and fruit salads work better than salads made from leafy greens. Lettuce and other tender greens can easily wilt on hot summer days, but hearty cauliflower, cucumber, and bell peppers tend to better withstand the heat. Salads dressed in vinaigrette are a better choice than those packed with mayonnaise, as the acidity of vinaigrettes acts as a better preservative than heat-sensitive, egg-based sauces such as mayonnaise.
The Smartest Way to Pack
When packing your cooler, it’s easy to toss everything together and head out the door as fast as you can—a recipe for leaking drinks, smashed sandwiches, or worse. Instead, pack your cooler with intention.Start by washing out your cooler, and then line the bottom with a kitchen towel to sop up any leaks. Next, layer ice packs on the bottom of the cooler, and then place the most temperature-sensitive food items, such as those containing meat, eggs, or milk, on top of the ice packs. If you'll be traveling for more than an hour or two, place a second layer of ice packs over the most perishable items. Less perishable items, such as whole fruit, pickles, or vegetable salads dressed with vinaigrette, can sit at the top of the cooler. Finally, add one more kitchen towel for an added layer of insulation and to use for a handy cleanup once your picnic is done.
