Simple strategies on how to plan a picnic, including tips for what to bring and why.

Nova Scotia summers are a continuous invitation to bring dinner outdoors and I’m happy to accept. The beach beckons to us on sunny days and I’ve always got a basket at the ready.

It occurs to me that with all my writings on dining al fresco, I’ve never specifically divulged on how to plan a picnic. Today’s post summarizes the best of my knowledge with practical tips on what to bring and why it matters.

Get ready for a memorable outing – here’s how to plan a picnic!

In this summer sunset picnic for two, simple elegance meets seasonal eats in a pretty little dock feast. Strawberries are featured in the recipes and the mood is chill. Join us!

So far, Nova Scotia summers have been a continuous invitation to bring dinner outside and I’ve been happy to accept.

I’ve curated dozens of picnics for the beach, fired up the charcoal for patio eats and even brought a portable breakfast out in the kayak with me on a particularly fine morning.

Meals enjoyed al fresco are usually on the rustic side, as I’m often feeding a crowd, the majority of whom are small children. Their finely tuned palates gravitated towards barbecue chicken and fudgy brownies, which is all well and fine, but occasionally I crave something a little more refined and elegant.

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There’s something so nostalgic about spreading a blanket and opening a picnic basket. Perhaps because it signals a pause in the day; an opportunity to both feast and feel the breeze on our faces.

Experience has taught me that nearly any element of a picnic can go awry – but if there is excellent food to pass around, most anything – from wind to bugs – can be all but ignored. Which is why I plan on the best picnic foods I possibly can and then hope the weather cooperates.

Today I’m sharing a round-up of picnic eats from snacks to salads, as well as our new favourite cold picnic chicken recipe. Grab a pen and paper and plan your menu for this weekend. Summer is in full swing and the Great Outdoors is calling.

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