Thank you Tillamook for sponsoring this post. Visit your local Costco today to bring Tillamook Ice Cream Sandwiches home to your family this summer!
Summer is in full swing and that means lots of time spent outdoors. Chicago winters can be rough, so when summertime rolls around everyone gets excited and heads outside. A favorite of mine during these warmer months includes eating al fresco and what better way to do so then with a picnic.
Today I’m teaming up with Tillamook to share 5 tips for packing the perfect picnic. I’ve been using Tilamook products for years and am a huge fan of their cheese. I love the fact that they use the best milk from cows not treated with artificial growth hormones. When I found out they now made ice cream sandwiches, I had to head over the Costco to get some. Summertime is the perfect time to stock up on cold, sweet treats!
Here are my tips for packing the perfect picnic:
DON’T FORGET THE NECESSITIES
Since you’ll be heading outdoors for your picnic, you want to make sure you bring everything including plenty of utensils, extra napkins, plates, and cups. I also always stay away from glass (because it’s so breakable) and instead choose paper or plastic. Lastly, I like to pack all of my food in seal proof plastic containers or the original packaging it came in for convenience.
SIMPLIFY THE MENU
Whenever I have a picnic gathering with friends, I love heading to the grocery store for inspiration. Whether it’s a cut up fruit salad, cheese plate, pasta salads, or mini sandwiches, the prepared section at your local grocery can be extremely helpful. These items are usually already perfectly packaged and save you lots of time in preparation. Today’s menu includes: mini sandwiches, potato chips, sliced watermelon, a cheese plate, and of course dessert!
KEEP THINGS COLD
Food safety is an important one and there’s no need to risk a tummy ache. Ice packs are essential to making sure items normally stored in the fridge stay as cold as possible. Try to keep your food on ice for as long as possible and try not to place everything in direct sunlight. When picnicking, find a table or grassy area that’s under a tree and away from the sun.
PACK A SWEET TREAT
Dessert is a must for any picnic or summer outing and my go-to these days are Tillamook Ice Cream Sandwiches. Inspired by ice cream shop waffle cones, these cookies are made with real butter and brown sugar. They’re baked until golden and dipped in premium chocolate, making them super delish.
Tillamook makes its ice cream with the highest quality ingredients, extra cream for rich, smooth creaminess and absolutely zero high fructose corn syrup. They’re the perfect sweet treat for a hot summer day and a great addition to any picnic or gathering.
BRING A BLANKET
If you plan on sitting on the ground or grass, then a blanket is a must. These days, they make a lot of waterproof ones, which are extra handy. Eating on the ground can be hard sometimes, so whenever there’s a picnic table, then take advantage!
So there you have it! 5 tips for packing the perfect picnic. See how my most recent one turned out and happy summer!
