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 it’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 don’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. She’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
