We are talking about my favourite subject today… FOOD!!!
What to pack for a picnic, the beach, days out with friends, family…
The beautiful summer days are here – we are having an AMAZING summer so far in So. California. It’s beautiful – not too hot and great for days out.
So I have a couple of food ideas for you to pack on your next outing. I get very bored with the usual cold cuts and potato salad (which are heavy and loaded with mayo) so I try to get creative when I arrange an outing with my friends.
Of course, we must start with one of our fantastic coolers. As you know we have a store full of coolers so choose the best one for the occasion (picnic, collapsible, rolling, backpack) and start packing.
I love Italian food. There is nothing like crusty Italian ciabatta bread with some yummy chesse and dips. You can pre-make a bruschetta topping. Cut up some fresh roma tomatoes, fresh garlic, basil and mix together. Put the olive oil (extra virgin, if you please) in a small container and drizzle on your tomato mixture before serving (if you do it when you prep, it’ll get soggy – unless you like soggy… )
You can also buy some olive tapenades or caponata to spread on your bread. And if you want really simple – your lovely Italian bread, a knife and Nutella! If it were me, I’d be fine with just a spoon and Nutella… sigh.
For the most part I do try and pack healthy. Maybe a Mexican themed day. Baked chips, guacamole, salsa and some bean dip. How about some pre-made cheese quesadilla’s (keep em warm with the hot packs). Easy and healthy. And if you want to indulge, bring along the Margaritas!
I also like to mix – some chips, cut up pita bread, a container of hummus and some yummy dips – Trader Joe’s has a great selection. Don’t forget water and also some clean up wipes.
Remember to pack your cooler properly (see our other blog entries for that) and your food and drinks should last all day.
Enjoy!
