Let's take this outside: Nine tips for hosting the perfect picnic

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Alfresco dining has never been more sought after so, if you’re intent on hosting a picnic for your inner circle, follow these simple tips to ensure it runs without a hitch. Unless it rains—we can’t help with that, we’re afraid...

PICK THE RIGHT SPOT

Choosing the perfect picnic location is all about the scenery. However, you should also try to seek out somewhe with optional shade—ideally, a gorgeous, leafy tree.

THE PROOF IS IN THE PACKING

While wicker baskets might be quaint, always look for styles that come with sectioned-off compartments. This will help keep food separate, should any attendees have any dietary requirements. Then add ice blocks to keep your food cool.

CREATE A MAKESHIFT TABLE

While the entire point of a picnic is to dine surrounded by nature, it also pays to elevate your food off of the ground, to minimise the chance of bugs making a beeline for your lunch. If your basket is flat and rectangular, it’ll make the ideal solution.

SELECT YOUR SEATING WISELY

What’s a picnic without a blanket? That said, it’s best to ensure your blanket is machine-washable, so you can get rid of any grass stains or food spillages with ease. You may also consider a blanket with a waterproof underside, should it have rained a day or two prior to avoid any dampness from seeping through.

CARRY EXTRA CUSHIONING

If you’re driving to your picnic spot, throw in a few extra cushions to make sitting on the ground all the more comfortable.

ENSURE YOUR FOOD TRAVELS WELL

The last thing you want to contend with is any leakages, so be sure to pack your food in air-tight containers. We recommend Mason jars.

SPREAD IT OUT

While presentation may not be your main concern, be sure to take a cutting board with you to place much of your picnic onto. A blunt butter knife should be all you need to cut soft foods like cheese and fruit, too.

GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR RECIPES

Ditch the soggy sandwiches and use fresh summer produce for salads, mains, and bakes, which you can make in advance—try the tasty prosciutto, peach, and burrata pizza to the right and don’t forget to bring along your favourite summer tipple.

CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF

After the fun has been had, ensure you leave the space as you left it to allow others to enjoy it. Take all your rubbish with you and, if you must use disposable plates, cups, and napkins, ensure they’re compostable to make your picnic a green affair.

Foodhood magfood, Lifestyle