Picnic Table at the Beach (photo by Wally Irwin, courtesy of morguefile.com)

As the song goes, “Summertime and the living is easy.” Or at least it should be. Even if every day can’t be free of toil and stress, you owe it to yourself to make some time for a refreshing picnic.

There’s just something about having a meal outdoors, taking in lovely scenery and breathing fresh air while dining. The food can be made in advance of arriving at your picnic spot, so once you unpack it on to the table the work is pretty much over. Bring some specialty food items that are ready to serve. Gourmet tapenades, crafted cheeses, artisanal chocolate, and a savory smoked pheasant can all make your picnic a special meal.

For some recipe ideas you should take a look at an article from the New York Times suggesting over 100 quick recipes for your next picnic.

If you’d like to read the New York Times article cited above go to: 101 20-Minute Dishes for Inspired Picnics

If you’d like to order some really special treats for you next picnic click on any of the following:

Applewood Smoked Pheasant

Gourmet Tapenades

Crafted Cheeses

Artisanal Chocolate