Exterior Inspirations: Summer Picnics

It’s finally time.  The weather is nice (when it’s not all thunder and lightning outside) and it’s time to make plans that involve parks, beaches, friends, and al fresco dining.  First up, my parents are bringing two of my nephews to town to watch the Tall Ships Parade from Castle Island this Saturday.  Grammy’s in charge of kid food and I’m handling the adults.  While my dad will pout over anything more complicated than ham and American cheese, I’m having visions of cute accessories and delicious treats.

Now, if I’m honest with myself, the boys won’t care about any of this stuff and it would be ridiculous to try and tote a metal cooler that weighs 20 pounds empty the five blocks we’ll have to walk once the parking lot fills up.  Croquet mallets are an emergency room visit waiting to happen too.  However, I can still make some cute food that will pack up in my LL Bean Bag with some tea towels for napkins and a cute tapestry for a blanket.  Practicality people! Here are some ideas but I’d love to hear your suggestions for travel-friendly picnic food.

Spring Panzanella via Smitten Kitchen

Rosemary Lemon White Bean Dip via The Kitchn

Ming Thompson Pulled Pork Sandwiches via Design Sponge