Each year on April 23, we celebrate National Picnic Day. Take some time to spread out a blanket anywhere and enjoy peace and tranquility or perhaps just listen to Nature or watch waves lapping a shore or catch an outdoor concert. Share the time with special people or a special person or a pet or simply by yourself.
Take some favorite foods to nibble, of course. Because food is central to the picnic experience, here are 3 Super Simple considerations for you.
Super Simple Caprese Sandwiches or Kebabs
Slices of fresh, ripe tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes for kebabs)
Slices of mozzarella cheese (or mini balls for kebabs)
Fresh basil leaves
Balsamic glaze or a favorite pesto
Bread or rolls (or mini bamboo or wooden skewers for kebabs)
Layer the goodies on your bread (closed or open-faced) or thread on your skewers and drizzle.
Super Simple Peach Salsa
¼ c chopped red or sweet onion, microwaved & chilled
2 c diced peaches or nectarines
2 diced Roma tomatoes
½ c diced, seeded cucumber
½ jalapeño, seeded & finely diced
2 T chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 large or 2 small limes
½ tsp salt & ¼ tsp pepper
Combine and chill for 2-24 hours. Serve with favorite tortilla chips.
KISS Tip: You can make this extra Super Simple by simply stirring peaches into a favorite bottled salsa!
Super Simple Sparkling Lemonade
1 lb hulled & sliced fresh, ripe strawberries
¼ – 1/3 c granulated monkfruit or sugar
½ c water
¾ c freshly squeezed lemon juice (or lime, if preferred)
4 c Prosecco or sparkling water (for a family-friendly version)
Sprinkle berries with sweetener in a bowl; stir twice as it rests for 1 hour. Add the half cup water & process till smooth with an immersion blender (or mash thoroughly). Strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove seeds. Stir in lemon juice and refrigerate. To serve, divide mixture among 4 glasses atop ice cubes; then pour the bubbly over the top. If desired, you can garnish with a lemon wedge, fresh berry, or mint sprig.
