Perfect, right? But honestly, where are the bugs and the squished food  – some of which has spilled in the cooler or other awkward tote you’re hauling? What about the warm wine and the missing utensil so desperately needed to eat the pasta salad?

Not that we’re knocking picnics, not at all. We love the back-to-nature idea of it all. We adore this fresh, enjoy- the -sun -and- lay- back -to- nap -once -satiated kind of event. We also think the best way to approach a picnic is to be well prepared, and realistic about how it will turn out.

perfect place for a picnic

The prep

OK, let’s start from the beginning. You’ve decided to go on a picnic. First you’ll want to determine the location. Whether you’re open to any locale or whether you have a specific place that is driving the whole adventure, think about the perfect spot wherever you wind up.

Does it have tables?

Are there flat areas?

Shade is nice, but birds overhead could be, well, messy.

Is there a lot of wind?

Just remember, half of the success of the picnic depends on your location.

The transit

Using a basket that is made for picnicking is great. All of those slots and spaces designed to neatly hold everything in place and to keep your easy snack recipes and drinks from shifting around alleviates some stress. Straps prevent utensils from sliding around and stabbing the food.

If  fancy baskets aren’t your speed, a sturdy cooler on wheels works fine. Make sure to pack food containers in tightly and include refreeze-able ice bars to keep food cold. Don’t use ice – no one wants soggy anything on a picnic! You’ll want to carry plates, napkins, utensils and cups/glasses in a separate tote.

cheers to a picnic with friends

The food

Now the most important part. Think of food that travels well, that isn’t messy to eat, and that tastes great. If you need a little help, we like this comprehensive list of  picnic food and easy snack recipes. Each of these can be prepared in 20 minutes.

Fast and easy picnic dishes

Planning a picnic should be simple and it should be fun -  even spontaneous  like the movie version. It should also include a dose of reality. Don’t forget the sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of napkins and hand wipes.

Real men eat anything with cheese

OK, maybe that stereotype wasn’t fair, but the point is it’s the simple things that please fathers. So show your love for him with some delicious food. After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.

Typically men appreciate rich, hearty food -you know – the meat and potatoes thing. But these days, health-conscious dads are changing up the menu. That doesn’t mean you can’t provide a tasty meal or snack on their special day that busts the diet or that leaves them craving something substantial. We say, find the middle ground.

Make

If your dad is of the mindset that it truly is the thought that counts, then put some thought and effort into making some dishes dad will love. He may not be a fan of breakfast in bed, but a brunch menu might get his special day off to a good start.

Dads deserve the best

If you don’t have much time, or dad likes an early meal, serve something that can be made the day ahead. Try a recipe for hash brown casserole, or one of those sausage, egg and cheese recipes with a little something extra.

For the gourmet-minded dad, serve this Asparagus, Mushroom, and Gruyere Strudel. This is a treat wrapped in phyllo.

Does dad have more of a sweet tooth? Stack a few peanut butter and chocolate chip pancakes on his plate.

Share

Dads are our protectors when we are young, they work hard to provide what the family needs, and they teach us many things. Here are some nice quotes to share with your dad, or your children, this Father’s Day.

• “My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.”  Jim Valvano
• “It is a wise father that knows his own child.” William Shakespeare
• “The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother.” Theodore Hesburgh
• “How pleasant it is for a father to sit at his child’s board. It is like an aged man reclining under the shadow of an oak which he had planted.” Voltaire

So serve up your father’s favorite breakfast,  or even a simple snack and give a little something back to dear ol’ dad.

Entertaining in the heat of summer, especially if the event is outdoors, is a challenge. Many favorite party dishes are baked and best served hot. You may already have the grill going, which is generating some serious heat. What you need in the mix are cold appetizers that are as tempting and inviting as a cool pool on a hot summer day.

You may be wondering just how many cold dips and veggie platters you’ll be putting out – but stop right there. You can find a lot of variety in chilled nibbles, and even create a cooler atmosphere for serving them.

The food

Just like your hair, food left outside in the heat and humidity can wilt. Plan your spread with some sturdy cold fare. Here are a couple of suggestions for some delicious party finger foods that will hold up to the heat.

a taste of the cold

Antipasto Kabobs:

• 1 pkg refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 40 pimento-stuffed olives
• 40 large pitted ripe olives
• ¾ Cup Italian dressing
• 40 thin slices pepperoni
• 20 thin slices hard salami, halved

Cook tortellini according to pkg directions, drain and rinse. In a plastic bag, combine tortellini, olives, and salad dressing. Seal and shake gently – refrigerate for 4 or more hours.

Drain and discard marinade. Thread a stuffed olive, folded pepperoni slice, tortellini, folded salami piece, and ripe olive on a toothpick or short skewer.

Or try these deliciously cool treats.

Cucumber and Avocado Summer Rolls

The serving

like a summer breeze

There’s nothing worse at an outdoor gathering than spying a platter filled with mayonnaise- laden seafood dip that isn’t over ice. There might as well be yellow caution tape strung up around the table.

Have plenty of ice in coolers for people to scoop into drinks, and place  party finger food dishes in trays filled with ice.

Don’t leave any food that isn’t on ice out for long. After 2 hours, refrigerated foods need to be packed away. If you’re anticipating a long affair, put out small quantities and restock when plates are low.

The setting

Depending on your space, you can create “cool spots” for your guests. Obviously shade is a necessity, so if you don’t have a covered patio, try setting up a cabana, or get some rolls of plastic table covering and weave it over a pergola if you have one. Fans are great so here’s a tip – place a shallow bowl of ice in front of the fan so you aren’t moving hot air.

Keep your cool this summer by creating an event that is simple, comfortable, and refreshing.

fresh, simple, grilled

Typically men are the ones who grill. Perhaps it’s throwing a hunk of meat on a fire that speaks to their primal self. But many women grill too, and it’s not just for steak anymore. Look at the grills of homes across the country this summer and you’ll find vegetables, seafood, even fruit charring over charcoal, or grilling over gas flames.

It’s easy and it’s social. Standing around a grill chatting and enjoying a beverage is a pleasant way to prepare food. No bustling around a kitchen hefting pots and pans or working in isolation in small quarters. Give us sunshine, fresh air, and healthy recipes. Give us grilling.

Whether you’re a charcoal purist or a convenience – loving gas griller, food cooked on an open flame is simple, it has unique flavor, and it’s fun. The debate over which method is best depends entirely on your perspective.

grillin’ and chillin’

If you are focused on flavor, there’s nothing better than what charcoal can do to enhance the taste of your food. It’s smoky and rich, and for some, the only way to go. If you are more concerned with speed or convenience, turning the switch on a gas grill can’t be beat. It’s also a bit cleaner for the environment. Either way, a good grilling recipe will work well.

While most people think in terms of a main course for grilling, like steaks, burgers, chicken, or even meaty fish, you can also make starters in the great outdoors. There are many interesting, easy party food recipes that can be grilled to perfection. Try something as simple as grilled veggies on a skewer. There are even recipes for grilled cheese squares. Grilled shrimp appetizers are always a hit, try skewering them with some pineapple, or serve them with a coconut dipping sauce.

Are you a grilling novice? Read these 13 Best Grilling Tips from Eating Well and begin your journey to  one of the most beloved cooking forms.

So as the days stretch longer, the sun is warmer, and you venture outdoors for your next gathering, prepare some tasty, easy party appetizers on the grill and welcome summer.

As things heat up, people enjoy lighter fare. With doctors recommending we add more seafood to our diet, serving up a taste of the ocean should be the wave of the summer. Thoughts of the sand and the surf call to us this time of year. But, if a trip to the shore isn’t on your agenda, take a little  trip with bite-sized seafood treats.

light and fresh from the sea

Seafood safety

You may worry that serving seafood can be tricky. After all, it needs to be fresh and kept cool. With proper planning, and proper handling, you have nothing to worry about. Once you’ve determined your menu of seafood appetizer recipes, do your shopping no more than one or two days before the event. Keep everything refrigerated immediately after preparing, and serve on chilled platters or over ice.

Here’s a great product to protect cold items from Tropix.

(For information on the safe purchasing and handling of seafood, read these important tips from the FDA.)

Great ideas

You may not want to serve seafood exclusively, but your next party should have a variety of seafood dishes for people to choose.  We found several unique recipes that includes several types of shellfish and a fish dip.

First up are these Coconut-Poached Shrimp Tostadas.  The combination of shrimp, pineapple and guacamole is refreshing.

Next, put these Mini Lobster Rolls out and watch them disappear.

Round out the shellfish selection with these Mini Asian Crab Cakes, these bite-sized morsels are easy to eat and have a bit of kick from Wasabi.

Have guests that are allergic to shellfish? Here’s a Smoked Salmon Dip that is simple, yet delicious.

You may also get adventurous and want to fry up your own homemade fish-sticks, or grill skewers of shrimp or sturdy, meaty swordfish. The nice thing about fresh seafood is that simple marinades or seasoning is all you need to complete the dish. No overpowering spices or sauces needed – let the taste of the seafood shine through.

sail into summer

The accompaniment

The best thing to serve with your fresh seafood appetizers are crisp white wines or light cocktails.

Shellfish pairs well with light selections like Vouvray, Champagne, even off-dry Gewurztraminer.

White fish calls for a White Burgundy (made from Chardonnay.) According to foodandwine, salmon, while typically served with white wine, works well with a lighter red like Pinot Noir.

As for cocktails, there are really no recommended pairings, but if people don’t care for wine, serve a light, refreshing adult beverage like this “Afterglow”.

• 2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce Cointreau
• Splash of lavender syrup
• Blackberry garnish
• Pour first 3 ingredients in an ice filled shaker and shake vigorously. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with blackberry

So pop a tasty bit of seafood into your mouth and close your eyes. Imagine you hear the sound of the surf, smell the salt water mixed with the scent of sunscreen, and feel your toes in the wet sand. Welcome summer.

send tasty nibbles

It’s hard when loved ones are away for long periods of time. You want to comfort them, or remind them of home. For many of us, food is love, so sending food to a dear friend or family member is a great way show you care. Unfortunately though, not all foods travel well. What you need are easy snack recipes that you can ship anywhere.

Whether you are sending a child off to camp, or to college, or you have a relative in the armed forces consider sending a “care” package. Obviously you won’t want to put in anything that would spoil or get smashed. Prepackaged foods are fine, especially if they keep well over time and won’t go bad in extreme heat. But if you truly want to send them a taste of home, send something homemade.

stay connected

Ideas

With Armed Forces Day coming up this weekend, let’s focus on items that will ship well to military personnel around the world. These ideas are also good for anyone you know that is living on another continent. It can take a long time for packages to reach overseas. They may also go through some rough handling and extreme temperatures. Here is a list of items that will fare well on their long-distance journey abroad.

• Snack mixes: cereals, crackers, and pretzels are easy to munch on and can withstand all the challenges of shipping. Be sure to fill a container tightly so they don’t rattle around and break into tiny pieces. Don’t add dried fruit to the mix, pack those separately and make sure that they are in a factory- sealed package.

Here’s a recipe for Super Snack Mix that doesn’t contain any perishable items:

• 1Cup canola oil
• 1 jar Butter oil (Orville Redenbacher)
• 2 packages dry ranch dressing mix
• 1 box JWM Macy’s CheeseCrisps
• 2 bags oyster crackers
• 1 bag chow mein noodles
• 1 bag crunchy Cheetos
• 2 cans mixed nuts
• 1 box Crispix cereal

Mix all the ingredients in a large bag. Bake at 250 degrees for 45 minutes, stirring a few times. This makes a huge batch that can be shared.

• Beef jerky: You can purchase this in any grocery store and  it will last for a very long time.
• Baked Goods: If you want to send cookies, stack them and roll them tightly in tin foil, then place the ‘cookie log’ in a sturdy container so they don’t crumble. You can also try placing them in a potato chip canister, or for larger cookies try a tennis ball can.

These Chocolate Shortbread Cookies will travel well because they are hard. Unlike soft chewy    cookies that can dry out if shipping takes more than one week, these will hold up to traveling.

Not much of a baker?  Try sending these crisp, sweet and all natural SweetSticks.

• Seasonings: Military cafeteria food can be bland, so ship a package of seasoning mix to be added to the boring stuff they may be getting.
• Candied or Spiced Nuts: These tasty tidbits will keep well, especially if sealed tightly. You can provide containers of both savory and sweet nuts to cover any craving. Here’s an easy snack recipe we found on Squidoo.

Sugar-coated pecans

• 1 egg white
• 1 Tbs water
• 1 pound pecan halves
• 1 cup white sugar
• ¾ tsp salt
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 250 degrees, grease baking sheet. Mix egg white and water in a bowl until frothy. In separate bowl mix sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Add pecans to egg whites and stir to coat evenly. Remove nuts and toss them in sugar mixture until coated. Spread on baking sheet and cook for 1 hour – stirring every 15 minutes.

The extras

Imagine opening a package of delicious food and also finding all the accessories you might need. Pack small plates, bowls, napkins, zip-lock bags and other items that will help them eat the easy snack recipes, and allow them to save any ‘leftovers’.

So, send them food and send them love. It is a gift that will please anyone away from home.

Imagine being able to easily whip up this Marinated Fresh Vegetable Salad

enjoy the outdoors & eat fresh

You may have a large plot of land, or just a small corner of a rooftop apartment, but either way, it’s possible to grow something that can be added to your recipes to give them a truly fresh quality. While  being green is about the environment, you may want to also think about the ‘other’ green. Planting your own garden also saves money.

Planning

The first thing you’ll need to do is determine what you want to grow. This decision should be based not only on what you eat, but what also grows well in your climate, how much sun you get in the proposed garden area, and in the size space you have.


Preparing

You will either need to prepare existing soil, or build a raised bed. For a few quick starter tips, see this video on How to Plant a Vegetable Garden. Here are easy-to-follow instructions for building a raised bed.

Maintenance

Having a garden isn’t a plant- it -and- leave- it venture. Understand the commitment it will take to nurture your vegetables. Be realistic what you will want to plant, and the also the quantity based on this criteria. Water availability and time spent watering is perhaps one of the most important factors in successfully growing a vegetable garden.

The top 10 most popular vegetables to grow are:

sweet, juicy, delicious

1. Tomatoes
2. Cucumbers
3. Sweet peppers
4. Beans
5. Carrots
6. Summer Squash
7. Onions
8. Hot Peppers
9. Lettuce
10. Peas

Imagine the delicious recipes for the family you can make from this list!

Beware - the 10 hardest to grow vegetables are.

1. Cauliflower
2. Celery
3. Sweet Corn
4. Eggplant
5. Head Lettuce
6. Carrots
7. Muskmelon
8. Onion
9. Sweet Potato
10. Artichoke

You may notice that carrots wound up on both lists. While popular to plant, carrots require just the right type of soil (preferably humus, not clay) and at least 6 inches of soil needs to be well tilled and loosened.

Onions are also on both lists. They are tricky because a certain amount of daylight is needed for growth. Selecting the right type of onion is critical.

The benefits

The most popular of the home-grown foods is the tomato. While not actually a vegetable, the tomato is one of the foods most often planted in a vegetable garden. Once you’ve harvested your juicy tomatoes, you may find you have more than you know what to do with. Giving them to friends is a great idea. Using them to create delicious, easy party food is another.

Here are some fabulous Fresh Tomato Recipes from Cooking Light.

While carrots may be one of the more challenging vegetables to grow, here are some fresh carrot recipes that may tempt you into growing your own!

If you’d like to get in touch with nature, save money, and have fresh vegetables to use in your recipes and easy party food, plant a garden and have a happy healthy day!

lighten up

In the middle of winter when we are craving warm, hearty comfort food, the rich, full-bodies reds become the wine of choice. But as fresh, locally -grown vegetables are more abundant and folks may  begin dining outdoors, the lighter, simpler flavors come alive. That’s when you’ll want to start preparing dishes that work best with crisp white wines, or fruity, lighter reds.

Some people stand on ceremony, strictly pairing certain wines and foods. It’s as if there is a secret formula to follow, otherwise your food will spontaneously implode. Perhaps a little lee-way when it comes to developing your menu and wine pairings not only relieves some stress, but also provides the opportunity to try something a little more adventurous.

The Wine

That being said, there are certain wines that just seem to mix and mingle better with certain foods. If you are exploring some appetizer recipes, this time of year you aren’t likely to serve food that is too rich. By the same token, your wines shouldn’t be overpowering.

celebrate spring

Summer wines are:

• Crisp
• Acidic
• Refreshing
• Light
• Best Served Chilled
• Fruity

This can include Reds, like Beaujolais or Rose. Whites with these characteristics are Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot  Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc.

If you’re really attached to meat and red wine and wish to serve up a Syrah, or a Cabernet Sauvignon, you aren’t breaking any laws and the wine police won’t be coming for you. However, if you’re going to grill fish, make a salad, or start off with a goat cheese crostini, you may want to stick with the lighter wines.

The Food

Planning to serve some light appetizer recipes like sushi rolls, shrimp bites, or  artichoke dip? The floral notes of a crisp Viognier would be a wise choice. This light, warm weather wine also works with spicy Thai food food or hot wings.

Cream sauces, creamy cheeses, and white pizzas are a nice pairing with Chardonnay. Looking for something a little bit different? Veal goes with Chardonnay too, so try these Veal Stuffed Zucchini appetizers.

Here is a recipe for Chicken, Rice, and Mango in Lettuce Wraps that should really sing with a glass of Fume Blanc.

If your menu calls for something that still has some depth, or something to help soak up the wine, try this Sweet Onion and Pancetta Tart from Match My Wine.

So as the thermometer continues to rise, plan a gathering to celebrate the slow shift from spring to summer with some lighter appetizer recipes. Pair them with crisp, fresh white wines and enjoy the season.

Many women dream of being pampered, especially on Mother’s Day.  After all, as the unsung hero of the family, moms work tirelessly to make sure that everyone else is taken care of. So who else is more deserving of this show of love than a mom? Make her feel pampered with breakfast in bed that can be enjoyed in peace and quiet.

OK, so perhaps it may not be easy to pull off this feat, especially if there are young ones around. But if you can think back to any subtle (or even not-so-subtle hints) that mom has dropped, planning a special morning that she will savor shouldn’t be too challenging.

Think of her

To create a special breakfast event for the mother in your life there’s a wide variety of foods and styles to choose from. But the best way to show her the love is to carefully select what you know she enjoys. Then, take it beyond the menu and consider presentation too.

Is she the type who begins her morning with a light breakfast? Or, does she enjoy a hearty, energy boosting first meal? Perhaps, because it’s a special occasion, she desires something out of the norm. If you want to avoid simply filling a bowl with cereal and pouring a cup of coffee, we can help you with a few ideas.

serve up a smile

Recipes that delight

Does mom like to start the day with something sweet and fruity? Whip up ramekins of this Raspberry Peach Java Cinnamon Crumble, you can enjoy some too!

If you’re planning breakfast in bed for the health -conscious mom, a bowl of Cinnamon-Scented Breakfast Quinoa could be just what she’d enjoy.

Have a mom that doesn’t care for typical breakfast food? Make her this Maple, Blueberry, and Bacon Pizza .

Thinking more along the lines of brunch fare? Serve these Crisp Maine Crab Cakes With Lemon-Caper Aioli and impress.

Are you not the best chef around, but ready to make a savory dish? Look at this recipe for Scrambled Eggs with Smoked Salmon, it’s quick and easy party food for the mom with more traditional tastes.

For the mom with a sweet tooth, go with the more whimsical dish and whip up some Mint Chocolate Chip Pancakes.

Want to really get mom feeling good, how about a breakfast cocktail? Skip the Mimosa or the Bloody Mary and prepare this “Rabbit Punch”.

Moms deserve the best

The Presentation

Is your mom (or wife) the type to enjoy a big fuss? Then why not make the party for one something to remember. Deliver her breakfast in bed on a new tray – here’s a reasonable gift selection for a bed tray. Use the good china, lay out some beautiful napkins and flatware, and definitely go for a flower, or even a nicely framed family photo to decorate the tray.

Would she enjoy some soft music, a newspaper, or her favorite show? Attention to detail scores big points. If you’re willing to go all out, develop a list of all the wonderful things you will do for her that day and place it on the tray.

Whatever route you take, preparing the food and delivering it with a smile and a “thanks” is really all any mom would want to have.

*If you’re a mom reading this and want to drop one of those ‘not-so-subtle’ hints, then share this blog with your husband or son and see what happens!

taste the fresh

Basil

Most often used in Italian dishes, this sweet herb has a hint of clove and licorice. Pesto is a favorite basil-based spread that can be used on pasta, crostini, even sandwiches. Whole basil leaves are one of the stars of Caprese salad where it is layered with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella cheese, then drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It is also tasty when chopped and sprinkled over tomato soup.

We like this recipe for Corn and Basil Cakes. They can served as a side dish, or make them smaller for an easy to handle appetizer recipe.

Chives

A part of the onion family, but with a more subtle taste, chives are famous as a topping for baked potatoes.

Try them in this recipe for Creamy Mushroom Risotto.

Cilantro

This herb is often associated with “south-of-the-border” dishes and salsas. It has a  strong, fresh scent and looks a lot like parsley.  Actually, it is from Southern Europe and is also known as Coriander. It’s actually quite versatile and tasty in soups, salads, and with fish and vegetables.

It’s also delicious in an Asian- inspired sauce for salmon we found on allrecipes.com

Dill

The sharp, fresh flavor of this herb is best with seafood, eggs, even cold soups. You’ve probably had it on top of salmon, or with some cucumber salad.

Why not have it in this Orzo with Feta, Tomatoes, and Dill recipe?

Mint

This leaf can be used in sweet and savory dishes. It is delicious with lamb, peas, and ice cream (just not all at the same time!) Most recipes call for the spearmint variety.

This recipe calls for whole mint leaves as a garnish atop grilled eggplant and Lebneh, a thick Middle-Eastern yogurt..

Rosemary

This strong-flavored herb is native to the Mediterranean and is most often paired with lamb or sprinkled on roasted potatoes. It’s needle-like leaves can be chopped and added to pork marinades, or even used in tomato sauce.

Try breaking with tradition and use it in these Grilled Rosemary-Salmon Skewers. This would be a nice appetizer recipe for spring and summer.

Sage

This fuzzy-leafed Mediterranean herb has a musty flavor. It’s often used in stuffing – think Thanksgiving Turkey. It holds up well in risottos and pastas.

Let’s really step outside of the box and make this Sage Tea.

Tarragon

Although Native to Asia, this herb is most often used in French cooking. It has a slightly peppery and licorice flavor that pairs nicely with chicken and fish.

Try making this as an appetizer recipe. These Tarragon, Shallot Egg Salad Sandwiches can be cut into smaller portions.

enjoy spring flavor

Fresh herbs have more flavor than dried, but they only last a few days to one week. To keep them fresh, wrap them in a damp paper towel and place in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. You can also store them stems down in a small cup with a bit of water (enough to cover about one inch of the stems) and cover with a plastic bag.

One important note about fresh herbs. Heat can destroy the flavor. Some recipes will call for them to be mixed in and cooked with other ingredients, but whenever possible it’s always best to toss them into a dish at the last minute.

Add fresh herbs to your next dinner, or appetizer recipe and taste the fresh, unique flavors each has to offer.