Food
Celebrate Summer With These Classic Picnic Recipes
Published on June 7, 2019
What’s the perfect summer picnic fare? We think it’s a mix of classics like fried chicken, tangy slaw and fudge brownies updated with new flavor twists and textures. The star of our picnic is simply the best fried chicken we’ve ever tasted. And we’re not alone: Toronto chef and restaurateur Brandon Olsen’s Famous Fried Chicken has a huge fan following. It’s got bite, offers a tender, juicy texture inside and has a super-crisp, nongreasy skin. We’ve got the recipe, along with his Buttermilk Dill Sauce, so you can enjoy it hot or make it ahead for your next picnic — it tastes great served cold with our amazing zingy coleslaw. Enjoy!
It’s official: fried chicken is the ultimate picnic food. There are few things that taste just as good cold as they do hot, and this dish is one of them. Brandon’s method of brining, marinating and frying makes this the most tender and delicious fried chicken ever.
Picnic tip: Fry the chicken one day before your picnic — just cover loosely and refrigerate overnight.
Get the recipe for Brandon Olsen’s Famous Fried Chicken With Buttermilk Dill Sauce.
You won’t miss the mayo: a lime-based vinaigrette adds just the right hit of acidity to complement the fried chicken. Finely chopped wasabi peas add a sweet, spicy crunch.
Picnic tip: Pack your undressed cabbage, arugula and cilantro in a large reusable bag. Once you’re on -site, just add the vinaigrette and shake to coat.
Get the recipe for Cabbage Slaw With Lime Vinaigrette.
For a fresh take on bruschetta, spoon the tomato mixture right onto avocado halves. Scoring the flesh of the avocado first allows the flavors to seep in.
Picnic tip: To keep your avocados from getting brown, cut and score them at the picnic, then add the topping.
Get the recipe for Avocado Bruschetta.
Subtly sweet and pleasingly spicy, our favorite cold summer drink gets warmed up with ginger and chilis. This beverage is great on its own, or spike it with your favorite liquor.
Picnic tip: Pack ice cubes in your cooler — this drink is best served on the rocks.
Get the recipe for Chili-Ginger Lemonade.
If you’re a fan of chocolate and peanut butter, then you’ll love this combination. Tahini is the nutty flavour of the year.
Picnic tip: If any of your guests follow a gluten-free diet, just leave out the flour for an extra dense and chewy brownie.
Get the recipe for Tahini Swirl Brownies.
Donna Griffith
House & Home August 2018
Food and prop styling by Sasha Seymour