Picnic-perfect event
One of the things we love about summer is the good old British picnic. There’s nothing better than finding a nice spot to throw your blanket down and spend a couple of hours enjoying the outdoors whilst nibbling on some delicious fare.
In the last few years, we’ve also seen an increase in picnic-style events. Many people are choosing this more relaxed eating style for birthday parties, weddings, and business events alike. The informal catering approach means less need for crockery and a wider variety of food choices available for their guests. Which can be great when catering for a group with lots of different dietary requirements.
Picnic food
When you think of a picnic, it ultimately conjures up an image of sausage rolls and sandwiches. Not that there is anything wrong with either, but picnic fodder can definitely be as adveturous as you want it to be. Topped flatbreads and stuffed focaccia make an exciting alternative to the traditional sandwich. Antipasto delights such as cured meats, olives and sundried tomatoes make excellent ‘picking’ foods. Sliced vegetables with dips such as hummus, baba ghanoush and salsa mean guests can dip in and out as and when. Quiche is delightful cold and perfect to slice and eat with little effort. A sausage plait is a wonderful twist on the humble sausage roll. And cheese and crackers are fantastic (and fantastically easy).
If you provide cutlery, the world is your oyster when it comes to picnic food. Salads are versatile, and the options unlimited. From a simple Greek salad to an apple, beetroot and rocket salad to a quinoa combination, you can be as safe, versatile, or adventurous as you like depending on your tastes. Adding pasta, rice or potatoes to salads can make them more filling. Cheese, meat and fish ingredients also make them feel more substantial.
Picnic drinks
Depending on the event, you will probably want to offer your guests a mixture of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. A firm favourite in the summer months is Pimms® and lemonade. When served with strawberries and fresh mint, this popular mixture is sure to go down well and is really refreshing.
Wine coolers and spritzers are also a popular choice for a picnic. Less heavy and more refreshing than a glass of vino, they can also be pretty to look at and can complement a theme well. There are many recipes available on the internet, and if you are using a catering company like ourselves, we can help you plan your event and also make some suggestions.
If it’s non-alcoholic drinks you are looking for, then there is plenty on offer. From old-fashioned lemonade and ginger beer (which conjure up memories of picnics from the past) to punches and mocktails. Even a jug of cold water is perfect for a picnic. Infuse it with slices of lemon, rosemary and ginger or cucumber for the ultimate refreshment on a hot day.
What you need
Aside from the food and drink, if you like the traditional picnic, then hampers are the perfect receptacle for the Great British picnic. And they look the part too. A hamper for each of your guests will add to the atmosphere and give your event that community picnic feeling. Of course, a buffet-style table where guests can help themselves is just as good and allows guests more space to sit and less clutter on the blanket.
That brings us to the next crucial element for any successful picnic. The blanket! Depending on your event and planning you may have something in mind or ask your guests to bring their own. But the traditional tartan or gingham blankets are still a popular choice for a picnic and these days, they come in lots of colours. Meaning whatever your colour scheme, there is sure to be something to compliment your event. If you can, make sure your blanket has a waterproof bottom to prevent your guests from getting soggy bottoms if the ground is a little on the damp side. You may also want to provide some chairs for those who don’t find it as easy to sit on the floor.
How we can help
If you’re thinking of having a picnic-style event and would like our help, then please do get in touch. We can sort as much or as little as you like, from menus, service and clearing away, to supply of crockery and other items. We cater for corporate and private events, so whether you need a picnic buffet for your work’s summer party or a spread for your son’s first birthday, Parties to Go are here for you.
