This week happens to be National Picnic Week, not necessarily the most useful fact, but certainly appropriate given that we are in the midst of the season of outdoor events. Ascot and Queens are over, Wimbledon and Henley about to begin, and end of year school events in full swing for many. Living in Oxford we love going to the outdoor theatre productions at this time of year. Often they take place in the beautiful gardens of one of the University colleges, or under the backdrop of a wonderful historic building, and all we have to do is take along a picnic and enjoy being entertained.
PICNIC RECIPE INSPIRATION ....
Here are a couple of recipe ideas, both great for a spoiling picnic but equally good served at your kitchen table if the weather goes off! Let's hope not.
GOATS CHEESE PEA PESTO TART
A simple quiche or tart is perfect for a picnic because it really can be a meal in itself. You don't even need a knife and fork - just slice it up and eat in your fingers, and it's delicious served warm or cold. This Goats Cheese Pea Pesto Tart is a great one, and you could always have a little Fino Chilli Jam or Chorizo Jam with it - our jars will easily fit into your picnic basket!
BRAISED PEPPERS WITH OLIVES
On Wednesday I went for lunch with my great friend Sarah who is a real foodie, and a great cook. This was one of the scrummy things she produced. It is from the book "Cooking in Provence" by Alex Mackay and Peter Knab, and it was so good I thought I would share it - all credit goes to her (and them). It is simply called Braised Peppers and Olives - like all good Mediterranean food of course it requires plenty of delicious extra virgin olive oil. You will need a fork to eat this one but it would be great for a picnic served with some yummy bread to mop up the juices. Thank you Sarah.
I hope the weather will be kind, and that wherever you are planning a picnic that you are able to enjoy it. If you need to top up your Fino stocks then do so this weekend with 10% off using PICNIC at the checkout (excludes already discounted products). By the way, for those of you who love our Fino Arrope, which has been out of stock for so long, the good news is that more is on it's way, and all being well it will be with me by mid July.
Have a happy weekend
Susie x