PICNIC RECIPES

When we think about reunions, we must think about food too.  Today, reunions and other outside gatherings often are catered, or guests are asked to bring a dish to share.  The concept of outdoor picnics became popular in the 19th century.  Homemade bread and butter often were considered, along with chunks of cheese and cold slices of ham or chicken.  Sandwiches were the ideal “finger food” because they were easy to handle.  They were best when stuffed with cold cooked beef, ham or chicken that was finely chopped and held together with mayonnaise to form a salad spread.  Sardines, pickled items, and preserved fruits also were popular picnic items.  Pound cake, fruit cake and gingerbread were favorite dessert items.  To wash down the feast, cold tea flavored with sugar and lemon or plain lemonade were the drinks of choice.  For more information on the history of picnics and favorite food items visit the following website.