11 Picnics Around the World

Hello! Ciao! Hola! Bonjour! 你好!

International Picnic Day has come and gone, but the warm weather remains. We have been talking a lot about picnics and picnicking this season thus far. But while we're big fans of the classic sandwich and salad pairings, in honor of globe-trotters everywhere, it's time to put a little international flair in our baskets.

So whether you're toting a baguette, sticky rice, focaccia, or a classic white slice — think again.

Go around the world with these picnic ideas!

There are so many opportunities to incorporate different cuisines when creating an outdoor-appropriate menu — just remember to focus on cold, travel-friendly dishes that would feed a group of people. And your picnic doesn't have to stay with the food of one country. Mix up the courses with your favorite dishes from your travels, or if you're going to be part of a large group, make it a potluck and have everyone bring a favorite dish from their childhood — it's bound to be an eclectic meal.

Slideshow: 11 Picnics Around the World Slideshow

While you're building the menu, think about drinks as well. A glass of crisp pinot grigio or a weighty bottle of Guinness would fit into a picnic menu of Italian and Irish origins, respectively, but throw in a bottle of sake and you have a whole other story. For the younger crowd, lemonade or iced tea make for ideal refreshers in the hot, hot heat.
 

IHOP to Roll Out Jelly Donut, Bananagram, Tiramisu Signature Pancakes

The Food Almanac: Thursday, April 23, 2013

Mother Calls Cops on Son Over Pop-Tart Theft