July 9, 2024

Create the Perfect Picnic with River Cottage

A jar of hummus surrounded by fresh lemons and garlic cloves on a wooden surface.

What does it take to put together a truly marvellous picnic—often affectionately called “picky tea” or “British tapas”? Whether families are heading out for a day of fun with the kids or couples are planning a romantic date night, River Cottage Culinary Director Gelf Alderson shares his top tips for filling picnic baskets with delicious seasonal goodies.

With lovely weather comes the joy of dining in the great outdoors. With picnic blankets in tow and cool bags in hand, a glorious day in nature deserves food and drinks that excite the palate.

Here are Gelf’s top picnic picks, easy to whip up and sure to impress.

Simple Picnic Food Ideas

Split Pea Hummus with Leftover Veg

Traditional hummus is typically made with chickpeas, but at River Cottage, they love crafting dippable purées with fresh vegetables. This British split pea hummus is perfect for using up leftovers—made in minutes, it’s a great addition to any picnic basket. It can be served with crudités, warm garlicky flatbreads, and fresh salad leaves.

Potato Salad with Apples and Cheddar

Gelf recalls, “As a kid, I used to snack on apples, cheddar, and mayonnaise after school. It wasn’t conventional, and my mother often wondered where all the mayonnaise went! As I grew older, I combined this delicious trio with new potatoes, creating the best of both worlds. This dish has become my go-to for any occasion, from picnics to barbecues.”

Oaty Nutty Chocolate ‘Tiffin’

Tiffin is a classic crowd-pleaser, and this recipe gives the family favourite a healthier twist. These lovely tiffin squares can get quite ‘melty’ on hot days, so for a more portable version, it might be best to omit the coconut oil and ginger.

Home cooks are encouraged to try their hand at making these delicious recipes themselves. If they take them out for a picnic, we would love to see the photos! Tag us on Instagram @RiverCottageHQ. These picnic food ideas for couples will elevate any outdoor experience, creating a memorable day with a selection of tasty dishes.

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