There’s something about the outdoors that calls for good food. Indeed, many of my friends have told me that one of the best parts of all the outdoors experiences in their youth is the food they ate. Whether it’s simply marshmallows toasting on a branch or metal skewer, Mom’s hamburgers sizzling on the back of the RV’s grill or the snap of firewood you gathered yourself burning up in a barbecue pit, picnic recipes are one essential part of the camping experience.
So how does one make the best of eating outdoors? We’ve come a long way from hotdogs and tinned sardines. Today’s camper knows that eating good food is not limited to a gourmet restaurant uptown. Here are some of our trusted picnic recipes/ideas that are sure to be part of you and your companions’ favorite memories:
Sandwiches—sandwiches are the easiest, no-fuss picnic food out there. You can premake the filling at home, refrigerate in a cooler, and just bring out the bread and condiments. Everyone gets to customize what they like, especially finicky children, and adults don’t have to slave away over a hot fire.
Try making: tuna, chicken, seafood, roast beef, smoked cheese, olives and other gourmet fillings with various breads like sourdough, baguettes, whole grain breads, pita and even bagels. Yum!
Rotisserie chicken- many groceries now offer freshly roasted chicken for busy consumers. I love getting a roast chicken or two since it’s precooked, healthy and tasty. This can form the main course of your meal saving you lots of time on the campsite. You can also take a roasted chicken, and modify it with sauces or other recipes to suit your taste. We like the timesaving component best of all.
Salads- some people prefer low carb meals and salads are a perfect way to enjoy easy, fresh and tasty meals on a picnic. The dressing can be store bought or premade, and all you need to do is toss it all together before eating.
Try making: classic Caesar salad, Thai-style salad with mango and ginger sauce, seafood salads (prawn, & raw tuna go well with hefty greens) or a simple potato salad.
Most of the recipes we suggest are meant to be prepared beforehand. This ensures that you spend more time enjoying than cooking while on your nature trip. And while you’re planning your perfect nature picnic in the outdoors, don’t forget the drinks to accompany the simple and yummy food you’re bringing. If it’s just you and your partner, bring along a champagne bottle or hearty red wine to go with your steak sandwich. With kids? Bring non soda alternatives like fresh lemon juice with honey, sparkling juice, cider, ginger beer or the essential picnic favorite, iced tea.
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