Dining al fresco has been popular for centuries. Our concept of the picnic likely evolved from the elaborate traditions of movable outdoor feasts, often enjoyed only by the wealthy. Medieval hunting feasts, Renaissance-era country banquets and Victorian garden parties were the picnic's predecessor.

Fortunately, modern picnics are all about sharing a relaxing, informal meal outside. Dust off that picnic basket, grab a blanket and some friends, and check out this picnic menu for early summer.

Lynne Rossetto Kasper
Lynne Rossetto Kasper has won numerous awards as host of The Splendid Table, including two James Beard Foundation Awards (1998, 2008) for Best National Radio Show on Food, five Clarion Awards (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2014) from Women in Communication, and a Gracie Allen Award in 2000 for Best Syndicated Talk Show.