How to Pack the Perfect Picnic

(NC)— Outdoor picnics are a wonderful way to get the most out of the warmer months and add some excitement to mealtime.  Whether it’s with the kids in the park or a romantic date along the water’s edge with your special someone, here are some tips from Dana Speers, executive chef for President’s Choice test kitchen, to help get you started:

Keep it Easy – Make sure that picnic foods are lightweight and easy to transport in re-sealable containers or bags. For example, the new PC Fire-Roasted Mediterranean Chicken Breast Strips are already cooked for you and can go straight from the fridge into wraps, sandwiches and salads- an easy way to cut down on advance prep time.

Choose Quality over Quantity – This age-old rule applies to picnics too. Limit yourself to just a few delicious choices, like two salads and two sandwiches, and fresh fruit which are easy to grab and go. Remember, any leftovers will have to be hauled back to the hot car where they may spoil, so plan carefully.

What to Avoid   Don’t bring iced cakes and sugary pastries; they’ll attract wasps and other insects and will give you sticky fingers. Instead, try individually wrapped treats, such as the PC Blue Menu Greek Yogurt Caramel Smoothie Bars. Pack them in a cooler for a refreshing, easy-to-eat picnic treat your kids will love.

Fun in the Sun – Remember, a day in the sun can quickly turn into a nightmare if you forget to take proper sun-safety measures. Wear sun block, a hat and sunglasses and bring lots of beverages in reusable containers to stay hydrated all day long.