Gourmet Road Trips: Packing the Ultimate Picnic

by Lisa Pike

Allowing the highway to whisk you away for a summertime road trip is a stimulating experience offering spectacular sceneries and an unprecedented sense of freedom. Imagine the perfect spot, under an idyllic shady tree, lounging on a beautiful blanket, surrounded by a spread of fantastic food, a little wine and looking out at a spectacular view. All bundled together in an elegant picnic basket filled with exquisite accessories provide the perfect vehicle for all your savory travel foods.

Charming Nod to Picnics Past

Picnics have been around for centuries, the earliest ones tracing back to the 14th century. The art of picnicking was enjoyed by the wealthy until the 1700’s when picnicking became a fashionable social event with participants contributing items or dishes to share. As picnicking gained popularity, different containers were fashioned out of tin or wicker to transport food and necessities for eating while outdoors or traveling. An assortment of items such as chicken and ham salads, bread, cheese, and a bottle of wine often filled a basket and was commonly shared among a group of people.

Dine on the Road Like Kings

Food has the ability to enhance every experience we have, and while a common road trip may seem less than exotic, by adding the right foods, your voyage can be transformed into something extraordinary. A gourmet meal can be prepared with ease. Sandwiches, salads, fresh fruit, baked goods and a great bottle of wine, the perfect compliment to your summer road trip. Venture beyond ordinary sandwich combination, choose an assortment of great flavors between interesting breads like ciabatta, foccacia and pita. Prepare your favorite potato or pasta salad, stored beautifully in Mason jars. They will add just the right amount of charm while giving your foods the best seal for freshness. Take a tip from the French and travel light with a fresh baguette, cheese, a package of prosciutto and a few apples. Eating simply can exude a romantic feel and leave a lot to the imagination. .

07-2010

	DISCOVER Picnic Recipes and Tips (foodnetwork.com)
	VIDEO Gourmet Picnic on a French Train
	BOOKS Good Day for a Picnic: Simple Food That Travels Well The Moveable Feast – A Picnic Cookbook for all Seasons