Country Kitchen: Backyard Picnics

Country Kitchen: Summer Time Brings Picnic Time



By Mary Emma Allen

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 Outings

Picnics, 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.

(C) 2002 Mary Emma Allen

About the Author

Mary Emma Allen has been writing her "Cooking Column" for newspapers and online publications for 30 years and has compiled a family cookbook. SheÂ’s currently compiling a cookbook/story book, "Tales From a Country Kitchen." Visit her web site for more cooking articles. Contact her at me.allen@juno.com

The Country Kitchen Series

Window to the World

Mud Season Means Spring!

Memories at the Kitchen Table

The Pioneer Kitchen

Fascinating Jelly Jars

Cook to Cook Letter Writing

Backyard Picnics

 
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