Picnics for Pairs

We hesitate to quibble with the Bard. But when Shakespeare wrote that music is the food of love, we think he may have gotten it wrong. We think food is the food of love.

Nothing unites the season and the senses like a picnic, and few alfresco events are as romantic. A sweet spot in the country, bankside at the lake, a sheltered glade in the city park-choose your setting. Add a blanket and your desired companion to our perfect picnic picks-tempters that ready themselves before the day, transport well, and use minimal utensils. And naturally, all are light to keep you limber.

Thus, as spring approacheth, the sap riseth; as the young man's thoughts turneth, the young woman swooneth. So here's to picnics, and to love. Ah, romance!

Pack your basket with picnic necessities and one of the five menus we've put together.

Menu 1
Deli roasted chicken
French bread or focaccia
Artichoke-Potato Salad With Toasted Brown Mustard Seeds
Blueberry Turnovers

Menu 2
Herb-Marinated Fresh Mozzarella Wraps
Baked chips
Strawberry-Kiwi Salad With Basil
Cashew-and-Golden Raisin Biscotti

Menu 3
Salsa with baked tortilla chips
Jicama Salad With Chili-Spiced Chicken
Strawberry-Kiwi Salad With Basil

Menu 4
Marinated Mushrooms
Barley-Salmon Salad With Arugula Vinaigrette
Ciabatta or sourdough bread
Blueberry Turnovers