How to Build a Better Picnic Basket

There's something so charming about packing a picnic lunch and setting out into a grassy park to enjoy it. Whether you're planning a picnic with your friends, your family, or your better half, these tips for building a better picnic basket will show you exactly what to bring along.

  • Plan your menu using dishes that travel easily. Sandwiches, salads, fried chicken, and cold pastas are all great options.
  • Just because it's a casual meal doesn't mean you shouldn't bring appetizers! Bring some hard cheeses, nuts, spreads, and crusty breads and create your own cheese platter on the fly.
  • Make some easy-to-eat desserts, such as cookies, brownies, or nice chocolate that pairs well with fresh fruit.
  • Do all of the prep work for the foods at home. This means chopping any fruits and veggies, slicing the cheeses, preparing the sandwiches and tossing the salad.
  • Pack the foods in sturdy containers. Plasticware is always a great choice, but you might also bring along glass bowls with plastic lids, baking tins, or re-useable plastic plates that are better for the environment than throwaway versions.
  • Don't forget the utensils! Bringing your own from home is a great way to cut down on your post-picnic trash.
  • As for the drinks, iced tea, lemonade, and sparkling water are all great options. You can pack them in mason jars with screw-on lids or large plastic jugs.
  • Keep your picnic foods cool by investing in a lightweight cooler or an insulated bag. Place the sturdiest foods or containers at the bottom, and separate your layers of food with a cutting board or tray.
  • Finally, spread out a blanket to keep the grass and bugs away from your food. That's all you need for the perfect picnic lunch for you and your loved ones to enjoy!