Spring Fever Picnic Roundup
Brush the snow off the picnic table! March is a week away and I have full-blown spring fever. Although snow can still be expected in the next month … or two … daylight is embracing us longer and longer each day and those optimistic bulbs are breaking through the soil to see if their hibernation is complete. This is the perfect time for a little al fresco dining!
WRAP IT UP
My idea of the perfect spring picnic food is a wrap or sandwich. They are easy to package individually, no plates or utensils required, and customizable for individual preferences. Someone wants a veggie wrap. Someone else wants turkey and cheese. PB&J is as easy and enjoyable as it comes. Spread some peanut butter on a tortilla and roll it around a banana? Done.
On a chilly day, a warm sandwich is always welcome. These baked ham and cheese sandwiches can be wrapped in foil individually before baking. Add an apple and a cookie … simply satisfying!
Best of all, if the weather changes, as it is prone to do in spring, the picnic can be moved inside. Park your car in the sun, crack the window a bit, listen to the birds and enjoy. Throw a blanket on the floor, put some lemon or lavender oil in the diffuser and talk about your favorite spring activities.
DIP IT
Here are two of my favorite dip/dressing/spread recipes. Serve in small, individual mason jars with a baggie of fresh veggies.
MEXICAN GREEN GODDESS DRESSING
LEMON POPPY SEED DRESSING
BITE-SIZED
When it comes to portable food, eggs are indeed incredible. Learn the tricks to clean-peeling hard-boiled eggs and turn them into traditional deviled eggs or put your own twist on the classic.
TRADITIONAL DEVILED EGGS
If you have an Instant Pot, try these egg bites.
INSTANT POT EGG BITES
How about these sweet bites of tomato, avocado and pesto?
AVOCADO STUFFED TOMATOES
SALAD JARS
Mason jars are ideal for picnics. Choose the size, seal it up and grab a fork … or a chip!
3-BEAN SALAD
CORN & BLACK BEAN SALSA
END ON A SWEET NOTE
Whether it’s a cookie, a cupcake or even a few dark chocolate squares, a picnic needs a sweet ending. Quick breads make awesome desserts.
COCOA-BANANA MUFFINS
CHOCOLATE ZUCCHINI MUFFINS
LEMON POUND CAKE
SPRING PICNIC: EASY AS PIE
Or … make your spring picnic as easy as can be … grab a couple pieces of pie from your favorite diner, find a table and share it with your sweetie. Instant spring therapy!
Picnic basket optional 😉
