Picnic Like the Italians With These 5 Dishes

Summertime is just begging for you to get out and enjoy the sun. There is no better way than by indulging in delicious food from the Mediterranean. Italians have enviable picnics, and now you can create your own version right at home. Pack up a blanket and prepare your baskets, because we are going to give you a menu for an unforgettable picnic that Italians would welcome with open arms.

Wine

To pair with our suggestions, we recommend bringing along a Coda di Volpe. The white wine’s floral and herbal notes are great compliments to the primary citrus flavors. The yellow color also contributes to a beautiful presentation for your picnic, creating an aesthetic and complete spread.

Charcuterie Board

A great appetizer for an Italian Picnic is a charcuterie board. One of the best parts about it is that they’re totally customizable to your tastes! Include your favorite meats, cheeses, fruits, veggies, dips, and jams. Authentic Italian boards also usually include balsamic vinegar for dipping breads in and to enjoy on their own. If this notion sounds unusual to you, that’s because in America our selections are usually one-note tastes, while in Italy they drink aged balsamic vinegar from shot glasses. Opt for Acetaia San Giacomo or Nino Asaro bottles if you want to give it a try, as their offerings are slowly aged and pair well with Parmigiano Reggiano.

Salad

For a simple and light salad that will pair well with your wine, try shaving asparagus and tossing it with parmesan cheese. Fresh asparagus makes all the difference in creating a light and crisp salad. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and cracked pepper, and you have a simple-to-make, healthy, and delicious salad for your meal.

Stromboli

Moving onto the main course, we take from an American favorite, sandwiches, and add an Italian take on the dish. While Stromboli is typically considered a turnover, the cold cuts give it a familiar feeling for Americans. Subbing out pizza dough for sandwich bread and brushing it with garlic and herbs creates a unique and delicious flavor for your picnic. You can fill it with any of your favorite meats, from salami, pepperoni, capicola, or Prosciutto. Don’t forget to stuff it with plenty of cheese as well, whether you prefer provolone or mozzarella, or anything in between. Pasta might be your go-to, but you won’t regret taking a chance on this dish.

Baklava

The perfect end to a culinary tour of Italy involves a sweet treat. Baklava is an easy-to-make finger food, making it an excellent choice for your picnic plans. Adding pistachios and cinnamon to the dish will create a nutty and sweet flavor profile that is satisfying without being overwhelming. Don’t forget to top the heavy-cream-filled mixture with honey and vanilla to make a moist treat to complete your meal.

Food, friends, and fun times

A picnic is more than just a meal- it’s a way to spend quality time with those in attendance. Picnics uniquely allow you to enjoy the rays of the sun while you talk and laugh, enjoying mouth-watering food along the way. If you love your Italian picnic, consider taking a trip to the Albert, where we’ll do the cooking and show you our Italian twist on American classics. 

Click here to see our menu and learn more!