Have you ever noticed how food tastes even better outdoors? Picnics are an easy way to enjoy the great outdoors while sharing some relaxing quality time with family and friends. Next time you head out to your favorite Corpus Christi park, use these tips and suggestions to take your picnic from good to great.
Set The Table
Of course when it comes to picnics, food is the main event. That doesn't mean you should ignore the ambiance, however.
- Choose your spot carefully. Don't select one in direct sunlight at high noon, and be aware of shady areas that can be too chilly during winter months.
- A blanket won't protect you from dampness. Use a shower curtain or plastic tarp to layer underneath. If you'll be using a picnic table, don't forget the tablecloth.
- Don't want to sit on the ground? Folding camp chairs are a perfect solution.
- Provide plenty of options for physical and mental entertainment. Pack a baseball and gloves, football and Frisbee along with a deck of cards and travel-size games like Yahtzee and Scrabble.
Food, Glorious Food
You can't go wrong with burgers, potato salad and other classics. Why not try some of these inventive suggestions to change it up a bit?
- Want some healthier options? Include some veggie sandwiches on whole-grain bread with the chicken salad and turkey. Oven-fried chicken has a crispy crust without the grease and calories of the traditional preparation.
- Cut meats and veggies into bite-sized portions and place on a skewer for easy transport and dining.
- Mason jars are ideal holders for layered salads. Start with the dressing on the bottom to keep the salad from turning soggy.
- Muffin tins provide a convenient way to serve items like deviled eggs. They also serve as an ingenious condiment tray or practical drink holder.
- Add some flair with global cuisine. Bahn mi sandwiches or chicken cole slaw with ramen noodles and orange-soy sauce dressing bring great Asian flavors. Snack on pita chips with an avocado-feta salsa straight from the Mediterranean.
- Pack lots of fresh fruit. It's a natural way to satisfy a sweet tooth and it aids in replenishing fluids.
- If you don't have the time or inclination to cook, many grocery and specialty food stores have a variety of delicious, ready-to-eat foods for carry-out. Go ahead, we won't tell!
Fun Picnic Themes
You don't have to wait for a special occasion to plan a picnic around one of these festive themes.
- A luau makes a natural theme for an outdoor event. Dress in Hawaiian shirts and pack tropical-inspired food and beverages.
- If you're hosting a crowd, have each guest bring their favorite food for an eclectic menu.
- Have a south-of-the-border fiesta with chips and salsa, guacamole, taco bar and piñata.
- Ooh la la! A Parisian picnic with French wine and cheeses, baguettes and fresh fruit makes a romantic event for two.
Do you like to go old-school with picnics or try new ideas? Give us your thoughts in the comments!
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