Dining Alfresco: Outdoor Eating Made Easy

Simple Tips for the Perfect Picnic

Summer has a way of whizzing by. It feels like you’ve just finished cleaning up from the Memorial Day barbecue when it’s time for the 4th of July cookout. And once the fireworks are done, Labor Day is right around the corner. How do you make the fun last a little longer? By getting the most out of every summer moment.

Take meals, for instance. Why spend a meal cooped up inside when you can enjoy a picnic outside? Picnics are having a moment. They gained popularity during the pandemic when people were tired of eating at home but not quite comfortable with dining in restaurants. Picnics have become so much more than wicker baskets and frayed blankets; you can hire a luxury picnic planner who’ll stage an upscale picnic for you with exotic themes like Moroccan Nights or Bohemian Brunch.

So what’s keeping you and your family from having a little al fresco dining fun? Most people say the biggest barrier to hassle-free picnicking is making sure you don’t forget anything. Don’t worry — whether you’re headed for the beach or the backyard, mDesign has everything you need for the perfect picnic.

Gather Supplies

Gather everything you need to set up your picnic space, then grab some baskets. We love these woven seagrass baskets. They come in three sizes, so you can throw hand wipes and bug spray in the small basket, citronella candles and dishtowels in the medium, and blankets or pillows in the large. The baskets are great for storage throughout the home, and they nest inside each other when not in use.

Next, grab utensils, napkins, and condiments and put them in a cutlery caddy. The built-in handle makes for easy transport and the compartments keep dining essentials separated and organized.

Serve with Style

Create a self-serve beverage station with this vintage-inspired serving tub. It’s deep enough to pack with ice and perfect for chilling wine, beer, and soda. If you’re having a date night picnic, add a touch of romance and chill champagne in one of mDesign’s chic coolers or ice buckets.

Tasty Food Ideas

Once you’ve set up your picnic area, it’s on to the main event: the food! Traditional picnic dishes tend to be finger foods that travel well, like chicken legs and sandwiches. Here are some delightfully innovative food ideas that fit perfectly on an mDesign serving tray.

• Jarcuterie - It’s the same yummy ingredients as a charcuterie board but in a mason jar. Try savory recipes, like the Italian Deli or Taco Tuesday, or sweet ones, like the Candy Land or the Brunch. Click here for more ideas.
• Cupcakes – Simple to serve, cupcakes are a sweet, self-contained treat. Let your picnic’s theme inspire your frosting choice, like the patriotic desserts pictured below.
• Sunny Avocado Rolls – These are a breeze to make. All you need are avocados, spring roll wraps, and whatever herbs and fruits are in season (think basil and peaches). Use your favorite salad dressing as a dip. Click here for the recipe.

The Fun Factor

Once you’ve enjoyed your meal and appreciated the great outdoors, it’s time to have some fun. Check out our backyard games blog or our campfire blog for post-prandial entertainment ideas.

What are you waiting for? Get outside and savor every moment with the ones you love!

Lisa Langford is a Senior Copywriter at mDesign

How do you stay organized? We’d love to hear your story!
There are many ways that you can contribute and be part of our family.

Add your social media photos to our website and more! Visit mdesignhomedecor.com and learn how you can help spread the word. Get 10% off your first order when you subscribe to our email list. Plus, follow us on social media.