Come Play In The Kitchen!

When I think of summer, aside from the classic gatherings centered around barbecue, I think of picnics! Whether that means packing a romantic picnic for two to enjoy on a lake, putting together a cooler filled with picnic fare for a beach day, or simply throwing some PB&J sandwiches together with some snacks to take to the park, picnics can be so refreshing!

The History of Picnics

The concept of eating outdoors dates back to medieval times. Aristocrats would often partake in outdoor feasts during hunting expeditions. These events were grand and involved elaborate spreads of food.

The term “picnic” is believed to have originated from the French word “pique-nique,” which referred to a social event where attendees brought their own wine. In the early 18th century, the word was used in France to describe a gathering where everyone contributed a portion of the food. The idea quickly spread to England, where it became associated with more casual outdoor meals.

By the 19th century, picnics had become popular in England and the United States. They were often elaborate affairs, complete with servants to transport and serve the food. This period also saw the rise of public parks, which provided ideal locations for picnics. The Victorian era, in particular, romanticized picnics as wholesome, family-oriented activities.

Picnics became more accessible to the general public in the 20th century. Advances in transportation and the availability of portable food items made it easier for people to enjoy meals outdoors. The post-World War II era saw a significant rise in the popularity of picnics as leisure activities, often associated with family outings and community gatherings.

Today, picnics are enjoyed worldwide and have evolved to include various cultural influences. They range from simple, impromptu meals to elaborate gatherings with themed decorations and gourmet food.

Top 10 Picnic Foods

1. **Sandwiches**

– Versatile and easy to transport, sandwiches are a staple of any picnic. Favorites include classic ham and cheese, turkey and avocado, and vegetarian options with hummus and veggies.

2. **Fried Chicken**

– A delicious and satisfying option that can be enjoyed hot or cold. It’s a picnic favorite for its convenience and flavor.

3. **Fruit Salad**

– Refreshing and healthy, fruit salad is perfect for picnics. Common choices include melons, berries, grapes, and citrus fruits.

4. **Cheese & Crackers**

– A simple yet elegant option. Pairing various cheeses with crackers offers a delightful snack that’s easy to share.

5. **Potato Salad**

– This creamy, savory dish is a picnic classic. Variations include mustard-based, mayonnaise-based, and herb-infused recipes.

6. **Pasta Salad**

– Another versatile dish, pasta salad can be made with a variety of ingredients like olives, feta, tomatoes, and vinaigrette.

7. **Deviled Eggs**

– These bite-sized treats are flavorful and portable, making them ideal for outdoor dining.

8. **Vegetables & Dip**

– A healthy and crunchy option, vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers paired with hummus or ranch dip are always a hit.

9. **Cookies**

– Easy to pack and universally loved, cookies are a great sweet treat to end a picnic. Popular choices include chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, and sugar cookies.

10. **Lemonade**

– No picnic is complete without a refreshing drink. Homemade lemonade, with its balance of sweet and tart, is perfect for a sunny day.

These foods are not only delicious but also easy to prepare and transport, making them perfect for any picnic setting.

Fruit Salad with Minted Simple Syrup

For the syrup, heat 1 c water and 1 c sugar in a pan to boiling and stir so the sugar dissolves. Add 1/3-1/2 c mint leaves, torn, and let the mixture steep at least 30 minutes. Strain and store in the fridge up to a week.

For the fruit salad, I like to use 8 oz cocktail glasses. Divide fruit of choice between the glasses, spoon over 1-1/2 Tbsp of the simple syrup and garnish with mint leaves.

You can use a combination of flavors for your simple syrup too. Other syrups that are delicious include florals (from unsprayed edible flowers only) such as lilac or lavender, other herb syrups such as basil or thyme, or citrus using zest such as lemon, lime or grapefruit. Make sure any herbs or flowers are not sprayed, and if you’re using citrus be sure to wash the peels before zesting.