What defines a picnic?
Does it require an outdoor setting, on grass, atop a picnic table? Or can it unfold on the floor at home, in the darkness of night? Is a picnic confined to a meal from a bag, box, or picnic basket, regardless of location or time? Is a picnic only designated for lunch, or can it extend to dinner? In my view, a picnic entails a pre-prepared meal taken to another location for consumption. Ideally, it should take place in natural light. Opting for a spot with a touch of privacy is optimal.
Numerous appealing public and private locales set the scene for a perfect picnic. The beach, a park, a secluded cliff or hillside spot. Other viable options might include semi-public or private spaces such as wineries, museums, schools, the Hollywood Bowl, Greek Theatre, and select sports venues—although tailgating might not exactly fit the picnic bill!
So, what lends a sense of romance to a picnic? Picture this: reclining on a blanket with your chosen companion atop asecluded bluff overlooking a tranquil bay. The sun graces the sky, fluffy clouds drift by, and birds serenade in the background. That, my friends, is the epitome of romance. A true picnicker possesses insider knowledge of prime spots, a well-equipped basket, and adept packing skills. They come prepared with the perfect glassware, flatware, plates, and napkins tailored to the occasion — never forgetting even the corkscrew!
For picnic enthusiasts, I recommend keeping your basket ready to go at all times. This way, when the opportunity for a picnic arises, you’re poised to seize it. Once you’ve gathered your culinary delights and beverages, it’s time to shine.
A brief road trip with the picnic basket stowed in the back is a splendid plan. Make a pit stop at a local market or deli to pick up a few essentials: a loaf of bread, cold cuts, cheese, a bottle of wine, a salad, and a sweet treat for dessert. With these provisions in tow, you’re en route to the idyllic lakeside or park setting.
Assembling your basket might feel like a task, but the rewards are worth it. You could purchase a pre-packed basket with all the essentials for around a hundred bucks, or invest more for a premium option if you so desire. Personally, I relish putting together my own basket—though mine isn’t the t, and a disposable trash bag.
The Culinary Delights…
Arguably, the pinnacle of a picnic is the food and drink. Above all, it’s paramount that no one falls ill from the fare. Thus, cold food must be kept cold, and hot food must stay hot. Room temperature dishes should be consumed within a maximum of two hours for optimal freshness.
Maintaining the coolness of cold food is simpler compared to the challenge of retaining heat in hot dishes. When I indulge in a meal, I relish multiple courses. The interplay of diverse flavors and textures heightens my dining experience beyond a single dish.
Commence with a Starter—perhaps a refreshing salad or an arrangement of cheese and crackers.
Elevate the dining affair with an Appetizer like a delectable Caprese Salad or an array of Cold Cuts. Initiate the First Course with options like a succulent Shrimp Cocktail or a medley of Roasted Veggie Antipasto.
Proceed to the main course—a choice between Roasted Chicken or Sliced Beef paired with a Chilled Veggie offering.
Round off on a sweet note with a petite dessert.For food storage, disposable plastic containers are the pragmatic choice, saving you the post-picnic cleanup.
The allure of picnics extends well into November and perhaps beyond in PV. I hope you have the pleasure of experiencing many such outings.
Bon appétit,
Chef Robert Bell
