Picnics provide a serene and intimate environment that's perfect for romantic dates. Imagine enjoying your meal together on a blanket under the shade of a tree or watching the sunset over the ocean while indulging in a delicious charcuterie board. The fresh air, beautiful scenery, and peaceful atmosphere make for a relaxed and enjoyable date.
Food lovers know that dining is more than just a necessity; it's an experience and the same goes for picnics. Picnics have been a classic way to spend time with a special someone for ages, especially when it comes to a low-key and intimate date idea. Whether you are planning your first date or just looking to add a little spice to your relationship, a picnic for two can be a perfect romantic gesture.
Putting together a foodie's dream picnic is not as complicated as it may seem. With a few simple tips, you can make it a memorable and successful date. By considering factors like location, atmosphere, and food choices, you can create a romantic and delicious experience you and your partner will cherish forever.
Choose a Scenic Location
As simple as it sounds, location is key and the first step in planning your romantic picnic is to choose a scenic location that is away from the crowds. Look for a secluded park, a quiet beach, or a romantic hilltop with a stunning view. Make sure to check the weather forecast and choose a sunny day, so you can enjoy the outdoors and soak up the sunshine. If you're going to a public place, arrive early to secure a spot and avoid crowds.
Don't forget to bring a blanket or a picnic tablecloth to lay out on the ground. You can also bring some candles or fairy lights to create a cosy atmosphere, and a portable speaker to play some romantic tunes.
Pack the Perfect Picnic Basket
For foodie couples, packing the perfect picnic basket is crucial to a successful picnic date. Fill your basket with your partner's favourite snacks, sandwiches, fruits, and beverages.
A bottle of wine or Champagne can add a touch of romance and elegance to your picnic.
Selecting the Perfect Beverage for Your Picnic
There is a wide variety of beverages to choose from when planning a romantic picnic, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Selecting the right drink can add a special touch to your date and create a romantic atmosphere.
1. Champagne or Prosecco
The quintessential romantic drink, champagne is perfect for toasting to your special someone. A bottle of bubbly will always add a touch of romance to any picnic. Prosecco is a bubbly Italian wine that is a great alternative to champagne and a great addition to any picnic.
2. Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a light to medium-bodied red wine with fruity and earthy notes, perfect for a romantic picnic.
3. Sangria
Sangria is a refreshing and fruity Spanish wine-based cocktail that is perfect for a warm-weather picnic.
4. Moscato
Moscato is a sweet and floral white wine that is a great choice for those who prefer a sweeter wine.
5. Rosé
A light and refreshing wine such as Rosé is perfect for warm-weather picnics.
6. Gin and Tonic, Margarita or Rosé spritz
Classic and refreshing light cocktails that are perfect for a summer picnic.
7. Lemonade and softdrinks
Lemonade is a classic and refreshing non-alcoholic beverage that is perfect for a picnic. Other soft drinks are also good options if you like to avoid alcoholic beverages on your picnic.
Choosing the Perfect Sweet and Savoury Picnic Dishes
Are you in the mood for a sweet picnic filled with delightful treats or a savoury one? Why not both? A hearty baguette on a chilly spring day or a refreshing salad on a hot summer's day can be an excellent choice.
Sweet Picnic dishes:
If you opt for a sweet picnic or just want some sweet desserts, here are some great ideas for your picnic basket.
Grapes and berries
Fresh fruit is an excellent addition to any picnic, and berries can be especially romantic.
Chocolate-covered strawberries
Chocolate-covered strawberries are a decadent and delicious treat that is perfect for sharing with your special someone.
Ice cream sandwiches
On a hot summer day, Ice cream of all kinds is the perfect refreshing dessert. Easy to enjoy but you will have to consider the transportation so it won't melt.
Cannoli, Macarons or Petit fours
Cannoli is a classic Italian pastry that is perfect for a romantic picnic, especially if you fill them with your favourite flavours of cream. Macarons are delicate French cookies that come in a variety of flavours and are a sweet and romantic addition to any picnic basket. Petit fours are small, elegant cakes that are perfect for a romantic picnic.
Savoury Picnic Dishes
Some good options for savoury dishes for cold as well as hot picnic days might be:
Cheese and crackers and charcuterie board
A selection of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and other gourmet goodies is a great way to create a romantic atmosphere and a classic picnic snack that is perfect for sharing.
Sandwiches
Choose your favourite fillings and wrap them up in parchment paper or wax paper for easy transport.
Pasta or potato salad
Flavourful and refreshing dishes that can be made in advance and served cold.
Antipasto skewers: skewer cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, olives, and prosciutto for an easy and tasty snack.
Mini muffins, tarts and savour pastry
Savoury or sweet muffins and tarts are always good filling options that can be customized according to taste preferences and occasions. Savoury puff pastry with goat cheese and asparagus is a delicious treat great for picnics. Check out the recipe here.
Hummus and veggies or fresh salads
A healthy and delicious option that is perfect for dipping and great for vegetarians is hummus and veggies. Fresh salads are the perfect thing to eat on a hot day and could be light or filling. They are refreshing and easy to adapt to all tastes and preferences.
Wine and cheese
When choosing a wine, select a variety that you and your partner both enjoy. Remember to pack a corkscrew and nice wine glasses to enhance your romantic experience. To complement the wine, bring some cheese and crackers. Pairing cheese and wine is a classic combination that can enhance the flavours of both. Some popular cheese and wine pairings include cheddar and Cabernet Sauvignon, Brie and Pinot Noir, and goat cheese and Sauvignon Blanc.
The perfect ending to your picnic date
End the night by watching the sunset or with romantic games and laughter. As the sun begins to set, enjoy the stunning colours and views with your partner. You can cuddle up, hold hands, and take some romantic pictures together. Watching the sunset can create a peaceful and romantic atmosphere, and it's the perfect time to express your feelings and appreciate each other's company. You can also play some fun or romantic games. Bring a deck of cards, a board game, or a frisbee to play with your partner. You can also bring a book to read out loud, or a journal to write each other love letters. These simple activities can help you connect and create new and long-lasting memories together that you will cherish forever.
