As Yogi would say, “There is nothing better than a pic-i-nic basket.”
Picnics are fun and a good way to enjoy the outdoors, red gingham table cloths, a whicker basket and a friend are all you need. You don’t want anyone getting sick because of improper food safety so here are some tips to make that picnic a great experience.
Freeze your bottles of water. This works well to keep food cold and as it melts you will have ice cold water to drink.
Use ice packs as well to keep things cold as well as an insulated cooler to hold the temperature.
Avoid foods that have a Mayonnaise or Salad dressing base as those two items are what make most people sick.
Don’t over indulge in alcohol, that mixed with the sun can have a negative effect on your stomach and head.
Stay well hydrated.
Use sunscreen at all times, the sun can have damaging effects on you as you get older.
Below is a simple salad that you can make for that picnic you are planning.
INGREDIENTS
Caprese Pasta Salad
½ Lb. Farfalle noodles
8oz. Fresh Mozzarella cut into bite size pieces
2 C Grape or cherry tomatoes cut in half
¼ C Fresh basil leaves, torn
Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing
¼ C Olive oil
¼ C Balsamic vinegar
2-3 T Fresh lemon juice
1 clove minced garlic
1 t Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS
Put chopped up Mozzarella in the freezer until almost frozen (about 45 min.)
Mix salad dressing in a jar with a lid, set aside
Cook pasta to al dente, drain
In a large bowl stir in pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Toss to combine.
Drizzle with vinaigrette. Do not over dress the salad, you can always add more Vinaigrette but you can’t take it away.
Keep cold and enjoy!