Brandywine Table: Gourmet Al Fresco
Perfectly prepared picnics
A book of verses underneath the bough,
A jug of wine, a loaf of bread—and thou.
These immortal lines from the Rubáiyát have defined the romantic ideal of the picnic for generations. Yet the soul of these verses is far older, reaching back to 11th-century Persia and the astronomer-poet Omar Khayyám. And still, the message remains timeless: the greatest joy is found in the pleasure of a meal shared out in nature.
In the Brandywine Valley, we’re fortunate to live in “America’s Garden Capital,” boasting the highest concentration of historic, cultivated landscapes in North America. With an unparalleled selection of 38 public gardens within a 30-mile radius, the splendors of Mother Nature call for something more than a sandwich on a park bench.
To elevate your outing, this month’s Brandywine Table features a gourmet-to-go menu designed for both elegance and portability. We’ve reimagined the classics: a vibrant Salad Niçoise layered in a mason jar to keep the greens crisp plus an Asian Chicken Pasta Salad. For small bites, Heirloom Caprese Skewers offer a fresh, mess-free burst of flavor. To finish, add “Found My Thrill” Blueberry Hand Pies — perfectly portioned pockets of summer — along with a sophisticated Cold-Infused Rose Hibiscus Iced Tea. This botanical infusion is deep and complex and can be made to sparkle with a splash of something bubbly for a truly grown-up toast.
If you’re feeding a crowd — perhaps at a local equestrian tailgate — the ultimate pro move is to minimize utensils. Take a cue from the late Queen Elizabeth, whose Balmoral picnics were so strictly staff-free affairs that she even hand-washed the dishes.
No need to DIY your picnic prep. Use picnic-friendly catering from our many fine local gourmet markets, offering artisan charcuterie boards, gourmet cheeses, finger foods and desserts to make hosting effortless.
Another secret to a perfect afternoon lies in stealing tricks from glamping. Ditch the loose ice and freeze water bottles to keep your hamper chilled and provide hydration as they melt. Prepare your feast a day in advance to let flavors marry. For the “jug of wine,” opt for Champagne or a high-quality screw-top bottle to leave the corkscrew at home. Finally, invest in a waterproof-backed picnic blanket and a solar power bank for your phone to play music and real-time weather alerts — essential for our sudden afternoon thunderstorms.
Before heading out, check your destination’s rules. Many gardens limit picnicking to designated areas and have pet policies. If bringing your furry friend, remember their safety, hydration and “good citizenship” bags. With a little planning, your picnic can be a masterpiece.