Or go green and enjoy simple dining in your own backyard.
Of course, creating a memorable outdoor meal experience requires some thought and preparation.
So before you plan your next alfresco culinary adventure, stop by the Newport Beach Public Library for a little inspiration.
“Picnics and Tailgates: Good Food for the Great Outdoors” by Diane Rossen Worthington: Food writer Worthington presents an impressive selection of 58 alfresco dishes in this volume from the Williams-Sonoma Outdoor series.
Each recipe is accompanied by a nutritional analysis so you can plan your menu around different dietary needs.
“The Urban Picnic” by John Burns and Elisabeth Caton: Everyone is trying to save on fuel costs these days. Urbanite Burns has perfected the art of going on a picnic without leaving your neighborhood.
Pick up this inspirational guide for recipes, outdoor eating tips, and an amusing history of the picnic.
“Good Day for a Picnic: Simple Food that Travels Well” by Jeremy Jackson: Want something more exotic than fried chicken, potato salad or coleslaw for your next outdoor meal?
Jackson offers 120 recipes for gourmet dishes that are quick to prepare and easy to transport.
“Picnics: Easy Recipes for the Best Alfresco Foods” by Robin Vitetta-Miller: You’ll find everything you need to organize the perfect picnic in this handy guide.
Choose from an enticing array of finger foods and starters, neat-to-eat wraps and sandwiches, fresh salads, savory bread concoctions and tempting desserts.
“A Return to Family Picnics” by Russell Cronkhite: Planning a big family reunion or outdoor celebration this summer? Renowned chef Russell Cronkhite has compiled a movable feast of cleverly themed menus and traditional family fare.
