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A Spring Picnic Menu

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What makes the perfect picnic basket? There there are a few essentials to consider when it comes to packing for a meal al fresco. The food should still taste great at room temperature. The foods you decide to bring shouldn't make a mess in your basket, so avoid anything too liquid-y that can risk leaking all over. And lastly, picnic food can appear fancy, but eating it should require minimal set up (i.e. no excessive utensils required). Matching picnic blanket and napkins are optional.

To celebrate spring we've already compiled a list of scenic picnic spots throughout Southern California and now we have some menu ideas to go with it. Most of these dishes can be prepared the night before since you don't want to spend too much time in the kitchen the morning of your picnic -- the point is to be able to enjoy as much time outside. Happy picnicking!

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Fennel, Arugula, & Radicchio Salad

RosemarySocca

Socca with Olives, Rosemary and Preserved Lemon

Brown Rice Salad with Asparagus and Goat Cheese

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Summer Squash and Lentil Pasta

BaconWrappedScallops

Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Scallops

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Panino Muffaletta

chickenwings

BBQ Grilled Chicken Wings

RadishTart

Spring Radish Tarts

Mushroom and Leek Galette with Gorgonzola

tomshrimppost

Greek-Style Shrimp

CVR_SFS_peanut_butter_sandwich_cookies_CLR-7-2_article

Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches

fudgy-espresso-brownies

Fudgy Espresso Brownies

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