Blues skies, California sun, and 75 degree weather-what more can you ask for? Here in California, you will find yourself in almost always perfect weather for a picnic on the beach! So whip out those picnic baskets and pack your favorite dishes and drinks to make it a real meal by the sea! With that being said, I wanted to share with you guys some of my favorite easy-to-make picnic recipes.
A good spin on the classic sandwich is the bagel sandwich. What you will need are sesame bagels, mayonnaise, horseradish dijon mustard, baby spinach leaves, pepper jack cheese, grilled red peppers, and turkey. Feel free to substitute out any of these for your favorite type of bagel, cheese, and deli meat. I personally like the Garlic Italian Roasted Turkey from Sprouts Farmers Market. It is infused with so many great spices for a great smokey flavor! Put it all together and get a sandwich of delectable goodness! Don’t forget to toast the bagels for that extra crunch!
Cold pasta always makes a good side and this Chicken Pesto Pasta is definitely a favorite! I love this recipe that I got from my mama.
To serve four you will need:
250 g (8oz) penne or fusilli pasta
1 small rotisserie chicken
1 cup walnuts
4 bacon rashers
250 g (8oz) halved cherry tomatoes
60 g (8oz) pitted and sliced olives
½ cup pesto sauce
½ cup finely shredded fresh basil
1. Cook the pasta in a large pan of rapidly boiling salted water until cooked. Then drain the pasta 2. While the pasta is cooking discard the skin of the chicken. Remove the meat from the chicken, cut or shred it into bite-sized pieces and put in a large bowl.
3. Toast the walnuts for 2–3 minutes in a toaster oven. Allow to cool and then chop roughly.
4. Removed the rind from the bacon rashers and grill the bacon for 3-4 minutes, or until crisp. Allow to cool then chop into small pieces. Add the nuts, bacon, cherry tomatoes, and olives to the chicken.
5. Add the pasta to the chicken mixture. Along with the pesto sauce and fresh basil. Toss until thoroughly mixed. Serve at room temperature.
For dessert, a classic apple pie is always sure to be a hit. Apple pie requires a lot of prep time, and if you are running on a busy schedule, I have a few solutions for you. Now you might be a bit skeptical of store bought pie-but don’t knock it 'til you try it! The organic apple pie from Wholefoods is delicious! It is not too sweet and the apples are crispy.
If you're going for a completely homemade meal, you can try Grandma Ople’s Apple Pie Recipe on allrecipies.com. I have never personally took a stab at it, but my Aunt has brought it to one of our Thanksgiving meals and it was one of the best apple pies I have ever eaten.
Top it off with your favorite choice of fruit, cheese and crackers, and some wine coolers and Italian soda!
Now what’s a good picnic if you don’t look good doing it too? Check out the new Splendid Bayside Solid Halter Bikini from the 2012 swimwear collection! This little chic two-piece comes in a classic solid print and features cute ruffle detailing, which says classy and feminine.
Cover up with Splendid’s Signature Terry Hooded Tunic Coverup as the day gets older and cooler. The terry material will keep you warm and dry from the sea breeze and ocean spray.
You’ll have a field day whether you are just taking your kids out or out on a romantic beach date. Have fun out there and don’t forget to wear some SPF!
xx,
Erica
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