Plates? Check. Utensils? Check. Big blanket? Check. Now that
you’ve got all the basics covered, it’s time to figure
out what you’re going to serve at your next grassy get-together.
The typical picnic spread includes an assortment of oldies but
goodies: cheese and fruit, deviled eggs, pasta salad, fried chicken
and biscuits, and cookies for dessert. These reliable, classic
dishes are great for throwing together a picnic in a pinch, but
think of what you could do given a little time and imagination.
Instead of canned tuna sandwiches, prepare a luxurious lobster
salad or poached chicken with homemade mayonnaise. Forego the
bottled Italian dressing and whip up a vinaigrette with truffle
oil. Toss the brownie mix and make fresh desserts with sweet summer
berries and ripe peaches. Before you know it, your next al fresco
feast will be a fine dining affair to remember.