As the golden days of summer come and go, it's hard not to feel the pull of the great outdoors. Gathering your favourite people, a basket brimming with delicious treats, and finding that perfect spot under the sun- it just screams HAPPINESS! Picnics, after all, are one of summer's simplest yet greatest pleasures, offering a chance to unwind, feast, and connect with nature and each other.
The Art of the Perfect Picnic
The perfect picnic is a blend of good company, great food, and the ideal outdoor setting. Whether it's a serene spot by the river, a secluded corner of a bustling city park, or even your own garden, the location sets the stage for your alfresco dining adventure. Whether you’re sat on your picnic blanket or around a cute picnic table, you’re sure to be creating memories.
However, the heart of any picnic lies in the picnic basket itself. Packing this treasure trove requires thought, especially when it comes to selecting picnic foods that are both delicious and practical. The aim is to create a feast of picnic foods that not only travel well but they should also go well with your favourite wine, of course!
Choosing Your Picnic Food and Wine Pairings
Barefoot Wine’s diverse range offers a delicious selection to accompany any picnic. Here are some inspired picnic food recipes and their ideal Barefoot Wine matches:
Classic British Cheese Platter & Barefoot Buttery Chardonnay: Begin with a nod to tradition - a carefully curated cheese platter featuring an array of British cheeses, from a robust Cheddar to a creamy Stilton. Pair this with the oaky richness of Barefoot Buttery Chardonnay. Its creamy notes and hint of baked apple provide a lovely contrast to the saltiness of the cheese, making for a truly indulgent start to your picnic.
Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagels & Barefoot Pinot Grigio: For a light yet satisfying (and lets face it, down-right posh) bite, consider salmon and cream cheese bagels. The combination of rich cream cheese and the delicate flavour of salmon is perfectly complemented by the crisp, refreshing taste of Barefoot Pinot Grigio. The wine's citrus undertones and clean finish beautifully cut through the richness of the salmon, offering a delightful blend of flavours.
Cheddar and Apple Ploughman's Sandwich & Barefoot Buttery Chardonnay: Start with a classic with a twist - the Cheddar and Apple Ploughman's Sandwich. This delightful sandwich combines sharp cheddar, crisp apple slices, and a hint of pickle. Enjoy alongside a chilled glass of Barefoot Buttery Chardonnay. Its creamy notes and hint of soft baked apple provide a lovely contrast to the saltiness of the cheese and pickle, making for a truly indulgent start to your picnic.
Mediterranean Salad & Barefoot White Zinfandel: No picnic basket is complete without a salad, and our Mediterranean Salad is a celebration of flavours. Packed with olives, sundried tomatoes, cucumber, and feta, tossed in a light olive oil dressing with chunk of watermelon for a fresh twist, this salad is a vibrant companion to the fruity and floral notes of Barefoot White Zinfandel. This pairing is a testament to summer's bounty, bringing a splash of colour and joy to your picnic blanket.
Strawberry and Spinach Salad & Barefoot Riesling: For a refreshing side, try the Strawberry and Spinach Salad, drizzled with a balsamic glaze. The sweet strawberries and earthy spinach make a delightful duo, especially when sipped with Barefoot Riesling. The sparkling wine's sweet fruity notes enhance the salad's fresh flavours.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries & Barefoot Merlot: No British picnic is truly complete without strawberries. Chocolate dipped strawberries are not only a crowd-pleaser but also a delicious match for Barefoot Merlot. The wine's plush plum and black cherry notes match the chocolate's richness and the strawberries' natural sweetness, rounding off your picnic with an indulgent treat.
Summer Berry Tart & Barefoot Pink Moscato: A summer berry tart, bursting with the flavours of the season, makes for an eye-catching and delicious dessert. Pair this with a glass of Barefoot Pink Moscato, whose fruity notes and light, fresh taste enhance the sweetness of the berries.
Dial up the fun with picnic games:
When it comes to infusing your picnic with an extra dose of fun, nothing beats bringing along some games and activities. From the timeless to the trendy, here are a few suggestions to keep everyone entertained and giggling throughout your day:
Giant Jenga: A larger-than-life version of the classic block-stacking game, Giant Jenga, is guaranteed to bring out the competitive spirit in everyone. The suspense of removing each block and the inevitable crash will have everyone in stitches. Just maybe keep it a safe distance from the picnic spread!
Limbo: How low can you go? Grab a rope or a long stick and see who's the most flexible in the group. It's a hilariously fun way to get everyone moving, and you can always up the ante by adding a time limit as you shimmy under.
Charades: An oldie but a goodie, charades is the ultimate game for eliciting laughter and creativity. Whether you’re miming famous people, movies, or something more picnic-themed, it’s a great way to get everyone involved. Plus, it's a fantastic spectator sport for those lounging on the blanket sipping a glass of wine.
Spoon and Egg Race: A picnic classic, the spoon and egg race is all about balance and speed. Whether you opt for a real egg or a plastic one, it’s a hilariously tense race to the finish line. Just be prepared for some egg casualties along the way!
Twister: Bring along a Twister mat or create your own on a large piece of fabric. It’s a surefire way to get tangled up in laughter, especially with a group. Plus, it makes for some fantastic photo opportunities.
Skittles: We all know this one, don’t we? The old classic of throwing a ball at skittles to knock down as many as possible in one throw. It’s easy to learn but can get surprisingly competitive!
Perfect Picnic Checklist
To ensure your picnic is as perfect as can be, here's a checklist to help you pack everything you need for a splendid outdoor dining experience. This list combines the essentials with a few extra touches that can elevate your picnic from delightful to extraordinary.
- Picnic Basket or Cool Bag: Choose one that's spacious and easy to carry. Consider the size based on the number of people.
- Picnic Blanket: Go for a large, comfy blanket. Water-resistant ones are great for damp ground too!
- Portable Picnic Chairs or Cushions: For added comfort, especially if you plan to stay for a while.
- Cutlery, Plates, and Glasses: Opt for reusable items for an eco-friendly picnic. Don't forget wine glasses!
- Napkins or Paper Towels: For easy clean-up.
- Cutting Knife and Board: Essential for cheese, fruit, or any food that requires slicing.
- Food Containers or Wraps: To keep each dish fresh and safe during transport.
- Ice Packs: To keep perishables and drinks cool, especially on warm days. Don’t have ice packs? Freeze bottles of water for a DIY version.
- Bin Bags: Always leave your picnic spot as clean as, or cleaner than, you found it.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent: Protect yourself from sunburn and mozzie bites.
- Portable Speaker: For a bit of background music. Ensure it's charged!
- Games or a Frisbee: For some fun activities in between snacking.
- A Good Book or Magazine: For a relaxed reading session under the sun.
- Umbrella or Raincoats: Because the British weather can be unpredictable!
- Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes: For clean hands before and after eating.
- Food and Drink: Last but definitely not least, pack your picnic basket with your favourite treats and drinks – don't forget the Barefoot Wine!