With summer fast approaching and with that the prospect of fine, dry warm days (hopefully!), the idea of sitting out in a park or down on the beach to eat with friends and family becomes more enticing. Picnics are a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors, good company, and great food and drink. They are a fabulous way to make the most of sunny summer days and all the best fresh produce. But gone are the days of soggy sandwiches and warm orange squash - picnics can now be a sophisticated affair if you want them to be, or a great showcase for your culinary skills. So, let’s take a look at some of the new picnic essentials that will liven up your next trip to the park.
First of all, you’ll need something to carry all your goodies. You could opt for a classic wicker picnic hamper or something more modern such as an insulated backpack. There’s plenty to choose from, but make sure that whatever you choose will suit your picnic needs. You’ll need plenty of space for food, so an insulated section to keep things cool is always handy as well as holders for plates, cutlery and other bits and bobs. Finding a lightweight picnic hamper will ensure that you’re not carrying too much weight before adding your treats. A pretty blanket, preferably with a waterproof backing, will also make sure you have somewhere comfy to sit.
Instead of taking heavy plates from the kitchen or environmentally unsustainable single-use paper or plastic plates and cutlery, opt for something that can be used time and again, such as BPA free plastic plates, and melamine (which is incredibly durable) or even bamboo crockery. Your guests will be appreciative of somewhere to place their snacks without their paper plates disintegrating while they chat! Also, consider taking some reusable cutlery for non-finger foods. If you don’t want to take the used plates home to wash, consider buying plates which are made from biodegradable materials which can then be put into a green waste bin or composter once rinsed clean. You’ll also need containers for the foods you have lovingly made; whatever you choose, make sure that they are leakproof to avoid any messy accidents on the way to the picnic. There is a great variety of smart leak-proof containers available made from everything from stainless steel, glass and bamboo as well as super-endurable silicone. Just make sure to buy a range of different sizes to keep everything in its place.
We all know that the food and drink are the stars of the show at any picnic, so it’s important to get them right. If you want to try an alternative to the traditional picnic sandwiches, why not rustle up some light and tasty salads, mini wraps with chicken and veggies, or small pastries like mini pork pies and quiches. These nibbles are small and light enough to be enjoyed alongside some engaging conversation, and make a fantastic accompaniment to rose wine, beers and cocktails.
Of course, you’ll need something to drink from too; instead of wine glasses or easily breakable things, choose picnic-friendly plastic tumblers – they won’t be easily knocked over and won’t weigh down your hamper either. There are some very stylish options available too, and you’ll find it hard to tell the difference between your picnic ‘glasses’ and your ones from home.
There are a few more practical items to consider taking too; an insect repellent will help to keep any uninvited guests away, while some sunscreen will make sure you can enjoy your picnic without getting a red face. When the food has been eaten and the last drinks are drunk and it’s time to pack away, always ensure you take everything with you and ‘leave no trace’. A roll of bin bags might not seem very glamorous, but it will guarantee that you have somewhere to put your rubbish and also makes for a handy poncho should the weather change quickly!
Resources:
- Bordeaux Wine - Notion
- Pauillac - GitBook
- Margaux - Hype.News
- Pomerol - Ameba Ownd
- Saint Emilion - ArtStation
- Prosecco - Matters