Is there anything as lovely and intimate as a summer picnic? Enjoy the outdoors and time with your loved ones… but without soggy foods! From sturdy sandwiches to colourful and delicious skewers, here are some picnic food ideas to help you put together a delectable spread without the soggy mess.
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The appeal of a summer picnic lies in its simplicity. It’s enjoying the outdoors without the rigid structures of indoor dining. But having a picnic doesn’t mean you have to deal with soggy foods or bland finger bites. With a bit of thoughtfulness, you can pack a spread that’s tasty and satisfying, and will travel well. No more mushy sandwiches or wilted fruits.
1. Sturdy loaves and sandwiches
The key is to use bread that’s dense and sturdy and can hold under pressure.
- Pressed ciabatta sandwiches: Spread an oily or creamy layer like pesto, hummus or cream cheese on the bread to act as a barrier before adding meats or tomato.
- Sourdough or baguette: Layer in meats, cheese, olive salad or tapenade. Wrap it tightly and press it in the fridge – the bread will absorb the flavours without turning mushy.
- Wraps: If you’re using soft tortillas or wraps, lay down a dry lettuce leaf to shield the wrap from wet ingredients.
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2. Pasta salads, grains, and beans
- Bulgur, couscous or quinoa salads: A lettuce salad might wilt and become slimy in dressing. But grains and legumes stay firm and actually taste better after a while of absorbing all of the flavours.
- No-mayo potato or bean salads: Mayonnaise-based dressings can thin out and spoil in the heat. Make a refreshing vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice/vinegar (just keep it chilled for as long as possible), paired with waxy potatoes, chickpeas or beans.
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3. Baked handhelds
- Meat pies/sausage rolls: These travel easy in a box or basket. Just make sure they’re cooled down all the way before packing them.
- Frittata squares: Cut a baked egg and veggie frittata into squares. They taste great at room temperature and have no soggy bottom issues.
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4. Skewers and dips
- Antipasto and Caprese skewers: Thread cherry tomatoes, tortellini, salami and cheese cubes (or mozzarella balls) on skewers. Keep dressings in a separate jar and put the wettest ingredients on last.
- Crudités and hummus: Put bell pepper strips, carrot sticks and cucumber batons separate from a tub of hummus. Place crackers and pita chips in a sealed bag.
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How to prevent sogginess
- Choose day-old breads that are firmer as fresh bread has too much moisture.
- Use moisture barriers like cheese spreads, butter and pesto, and smear thick on both slices.
- Keep dressings like sauces and salsas separate and only pour at the picnic table. This goes for fruit as well.
- Pack crunchies like chips, crackers and nuts in airtight bags.
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Featured image: Unsplash
