Let’s Go, Pic-Knicks!

Call it a party, a pit stop, a prolonged lunch, or a preoccupation with eating outdoors as long as weather permits—nothing beats a good picnic. No bench? No problem. A blanket or towel will do the trick. What’s more important is who you’re with and what you’re bringing.

Chips and dips are always guaranteed crowd-pleasers, and they’re even better when they’re made at home with simple ingredients and special spice blends. Sandwiches remain a picnic menu nonnegotiable, especially when they’re structurally sound, thoroughly slathered with garlic labneh, and layered with pickled spring vegetables. A shareable rice salad isn’t something to skip out on, either—with loads of herbs, mushrooms, and peas tossed with good quality olive oil and vinegar, it might seem a little outside-of-the-box in terms of “salads,” but it’s not going to get soggy, and it will be delicious.

Pack a cooler, some cutlery, and napkins; charge your speakers and make a playlist for relaxing under the sun (or sitting comfortably in the shade); assign each of your friends an item to bring, or prepare to eat solo with whatever sounds best to you at the moment. Don’t forget to stay hydrated. Above all, don’t miss out on picnic season. Celebrate it with back-to-back planned pleasures.