Let’s go on a picnic!

by Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD 
 

​     National Picnic Day is celebrated on April 23. Whether it’s an outdoor family excursion or a romantic day in the park for two, picnics make being outdoors just a little more special. And if the weather isn’t ideal just have a picnic on your living room floor! 
    To plan a perfect picnic, you will want to choose foods you can make ahead of time that store well and are easy to eat.
 
Tips for a perfect picnic
    Pick a good container. A good insulated cooler is the best option to keep foods cool enough to avoid food borne illness. Make sure to add ice or freezer packs.
     Keep hot foods hot by keeping them in an insulated thermos. Don’t let food set out for more than two hours or more than one hour if the temperature outdoors gets really hot.
     Keep it clean. Keep both your hands and the environment clean. Bring some napkins, wet wipes and some trash bags to keep things tidy.
     Don’t forget the beverage. Iced tea, fruit infused water or a bottle of wine are all good choices.
     Make it healthy. Sandwiches make an easy-to-pack picnic food. To keep your sandwich healthy, choose whole-grain bread and pack a healthy dip such as guacamole or hummus to dip some fresh cut veggies. Fresh fruit packs easily. Some good choices are grapes, strawberries and fresh cut melon.
     Don’t forget the treat. A cookie or other sweet treat can make your picnic complete without feeling deprived.
Try this Vegetarian Mediterranean Pressed Picnic Sandwich at your next picnic. Add some grilled chicken if you want to add a non-vegetarian protein source.
 
     Tracey Shaffer is a registered dietitian and certified health coach and owner of KC Nutrition Coach in Eastern Jackson County. She can be reached at tracey@kcnutritioncoach.com. You can visit her website at kcnutritioncoach.com.