Country Kitchen: Summer Time Brings Picnic Time
When my grandchildren ask to eat their lunch at the table on the deck, I
know picnic time has arrived. Whether itÂ’s on the deck or a picnic in
the
yard, this is the time of year we enjoy the out-of-doors for dining.
With summer meals tending to be more casual, impromptu outings can be taken to all sorts of unexpected places - beside a bubbling brook, in the quiet of the woodland, on a sandy stretch of beach, or in your own backyard. Picnics Are Pleasure OutingsPicnics, according to one dictionary definition, are "pleasure outings at which a meal is eaten outdoors." They range all the way from simple sandwich fare to fancy family reunions and group outings - school, church, or club - with each cook contributing a special dish.Although the classic American picnic menu used to consist of fried chicken, potato salad, deviled eggs, pickles, rolls, chocolate cake, coffee or lemonade, an enjoyable meal can be prepared "on the spot". Simply take along bread, sandwich makings, potato chips, pickles, cookies, fruit, cold or hot drinks.
Just pack everything into a hamper and let each person make the meal of
his choice when you arrive at your picnic area. This way you donÂ’t have
leftover sandwiches or ones that get soggy enroute.
About the Author The Country Kitchen SeriesWindow to the WorldMud Season Means Spring! Memories at the Kitchen Table The Pioneer Kitchen Fascinating Jelly Jars Cook to Cook Letter Writing Backyard Picnics |
Summer Harvest Tea
Before the cool weather sets in, enjoy the bounty of your herb, flower and vegetable gardens by giving a Summer Harvest Tea Party. Plan your theme around the garden, invite friends and family. Don't make it a formal affair, but rather a way to celebrate everyone's gardens and share produce, flowers, seeds and advice.
Read More…
Harvesting and Using Summer Squash
Summer squash is one of my favorite vegetables. I love the yellow summer squash in particular. They should be harvested while still tender, when they have a "glossy" appearance and are still small. You will most likely need to harvest daily once they start to appear.
Read More…