Plan the perfect picnic party

“Ten, eleven, twelve … and they all played games at the ladybugs’ picnic.”

Maybe you remember the song from “Sesame Street,” or perhaps “Teddy Bears’ Picnic” is more your speed. Regardless of what speaks to you from your youth, one thing is clear – you’re never too old to picnic with friends. This spring, pack up a basket and head to the nearest blanket for picnic entertaining.

Basket basics

Just how much can you stuff into a basket? Chef Teri McIllwain of Chandler’s restaurant at California’s Cape Rey Carlsbad suggests hosting up to 10 people, although six to eight is perfect for a picnic party.

“Keep in mind that you’ll be transporting food for the group,” she says. “So keeping the party on an intimate scale will be a lot less work.”

When considering the guest list, hosts will want to think through the picnic location, date and time of event.

“Pick a time of day that isn’t in prime heat,” McIllwain says, “and plan for elements such as sun and wind.”

Basket for beginners

“Sliders, sandwiches and finger foods such as cheese plates are a great option for beginners,” McIllwain says. “Individual salads served in mason jars are easy and make a big impression.”

Think about crafting caprese sandwiches with melted mozzarella, tomatoes and creamy parsley pesto on French bread (JessicaintheKitchen.com) and serve with fresh fruit skewers or watermelon wedges on Popsicle sticks.

Consider packing wraps like Ready Set Eat’s (ReadySetEat.com) blue cheese steak wraps, Asian-style shredded pork wraps or spicy crunch chicken wraps. Not only are they simple to make, wraps don’t require utensils and won’t take up much room in the basket.

“Offer guests individually packed bento boxes,” McIllwain says. These pre-packed meals are literally ready to grab and go. Try a portobello pizza bento with a side of cherries and corn on the cob (Greatist.com).

Instead of packing individual canned or bottled drinks – water, soda, etc. – consider filling a sports-sized water cooler with a refreshing peach green tea.

Next-level picnic

Creative license is part of the fun of packing a picnic. Those wanting to step up their picnic-entertaining game have plenty of options.

“I like to make lamb lollipops and lobster sliders for a gourmet touch,” McIllwain says, “and ahi poke served in individual containers makes for an unexpected addition.”

Treat guests to a flavorful, inventive salad like one made with beets, chopped walnuts, maple syrup, baby greens, orange juice, balsamic vinegar, EVOO and goat cheese (allrecipes.com). Or pack a pear, arugula and pancetta salad with Champagne vinegar, honey, lemon juice, salt, black pepper and olive oil for the dressing; and thinly sliced pancetta, olive oil, firm-ripe pears, baby arugula and ricotta salata to mix.

If you want to translate gourmet without doing the footwork, McIllwain offers a delicious alternative: “Stop by your favorite sushi place and pick up a few ready-to-go rolls.”

Extras

There are always extras above and beyond the scenery to make guests even more comfortable and cozy.

“Start with a great basket and soft blanket, then add some comfy pillows or low seating,” McIllwain says. “For ambiance, flameless candles or votives are safe and won’t get blown out by sea breezes.”

McIllwain also recommends adding soothing music without lyrics since it doesn’t interfere with conversation.

“For dessert, serve a selection of high-end chocolate truffles,” she says.

Offer guests additional entertainment, whether it’s relaxing classical music or sand volleyball.

“Easy games such as Frisbee and bocce ball can entertain your guests before and after the meal,” McIllwain says.

This story was originally published April 12, 2016 at 3:31 PM with the headline "Plan the perfect picnic party."