It’s officially summer and since most of your dining will take place outdoors, why not gather your culinary essentials now? We’ve covered all you need for a smokin’ hot grilling season, now it’s time to relax with a picnic. Items like an ultimate picnic basket, traditional gingham blanket, staked wine holder and other nifty gadgets will make for memorable lunch or dinner picnics with family and friends.
Picnic basket
Want to glam up your average picnic basket? Pick up this fancy basket by Picnic at Ascot, complete with two ceramic plates, wine glasses, stainless flatware, cotton napkins, double-walled insulated stainless coffee cups, a food cooler, hardwood cutting board, spill-proof salt and pepper shakers, wood handle cheese knife, stainless waiter’s corkscrew and fleece blanket. Hand-crafted full reed natural willow gives this basket a classic look and will make any outdoor lunch or dinner an elegant affair for two. Available at Walmart for $189.
Blanket
If you’re looking to switch up the red and white checkered blanket, go for classic blue gingham. This coated cotton canvas blanket is waterproof and the quintessential pattern for picnics. Available at Crate & Barrel for $39.95.
Transportable grill
If sandwiches and fresh fruit aren’t flashy enough for your picnic, take along this mini portable grill and kick it up a notch. This grill has 176 square inches of cooking space and thermostatic control for precise cooking temperatures. Add wood chips to the charcoal or electric pan for a smoky flavor. This adorably portable grill is available at Crate & Barrel for $79.95.
Thermos
Keep your lemonade cool and your hot chocolate hot with this thermos. Stainless steel inside and out makes this a must have for picnics. The Thermos Stainless King 16-ounce beverage bottle is available for $24.99 at Bed Bath and Beyond. It also boasts a twist and pour stopper for easy pouring.
Wine bottle/glass holders
This wine bottle and glass holder will come in handy for picnics this summer. Enjoy a glass of wine without worrying about the spill. The Tovolo steady sticks stake right into the grass and securely balance any bottle of wine and stemmed glass. Made of stainless steel, this comes in a set of two for $9.99 on Amazon.
Food covers
Keep the bugs from ruining your lovely lunch with these nifty food covers. Protect your sandwiches, potato salad and homemade cookies with wire mesh food domes that cover your entire plate. Available for $7.99 at Target.
