The longstanding European tradition of dining al fresco is a relaxing way to enjoy light, satisfying food and refreshing, chilled drinks. With a little advanced planning, outdoor dining –what we Americans generally call “picnics” – can suit a range of needs, from getting the kids out of the house for some fresh air to sparking a romantic encounter with your cara mia. 

Whether you’re looking to host an elaborate feast, whip up a quick lunch for a spontaneous getaway, or something in between, the best way to enjoy eating outdoors is to first think through your location and the size of your party and then make a list of what to bring for optimal pleasure and relaxation. The following tips will help you make the most of your day in the sun: 

• When planning your picnic, begin with the menu. Look for recipes that can be prepared beforehand and chilled and that don’t require many utensils or condiments. It is also wise to choose dishes that are not overly messy and are easily portable. Instead of using mayonnaise, which spoils easily in the hot sun, dress salads and sandwiches with extra virgin olive oil, as in our Rotini Pasta Salad. For dessert, try cheese, biscotti, pastries and fruit of all kinds – all are tasty and uncomplicated.  Melons can be chopped or balled the morning of the picnic and chilled for a refreshing dessert, or served with prosciutto for a mouthwatering antipasto.
  
• Drinks to consider include water, juice, iced teas and coffees, wine or even prosecco or champagne. Chilled Italian whites are the perfect partners for light dishes such as savory Zucchini, Peppers and Eggplant Sauté with Garlic  and Mint, while the rich flavors of Pomodori Gratinati may be best complemented by a robust red. To keep food and drinks cold for longer periods, freeze plastic bottles of water the night before and pack them next to your serving containers in the cooler.
  
• It is best to use two picnic baskets – one for food, condiments and drinks, and the second for dishes, glasses, utensils, napkins, garbage bags and one dry and one damp towel to clean up spills. For comfort and entertainment, consider bringing a soft blanket, portable stools, pillows, games, books and puzzles. If you will be parked close to your picnic spot, pack badminton, croquet or even horseshoes in the trunk and follow your lunch or dinner with a spirited match. Or try your hand at bocce, the traditional Italian lawn bowling game.   
  
• When dining at a picnic table, add small touches of unexpected luxury by using a tablecloth or real china and silver. A vase filled with a simple arrangement of wildflowers, or fresh leaves scattered around the plates can add some natural style to your table setting. Spread small throw pillows, cushions or thick blankets on the benches to put guests even more at ease.  
  
• Outdoor dining can sometimes be marred by uninvited guests – in particular, flying, crawling and buzzing guests hungry for a bite of food...or maybe even a bite of you. To keep ants away, create a moat of sorts by drawing chalk circles around plates on a table or sprinkling talcum powder around your blanket. Folk wisdom says that a sprig of fresh mint placed on the blanket or table may deter bees. Food tents or mesh dome-shaped covers also help protect food from pesky intruders.  And don’t forget the bug spray and citronella candles!
  
• To best enjoy your picnic, follow a few basic safety rules. For starters, a first-aid kit, stocked with bandages, aspirin and other “quick fixes,” is a must. Another necessity is sunscreen, which should be reapplied frequently, especially if you are planning on a swim. Consider dining in the shade – or at dusk – and wear loose, light clothing and a hat to protect your skin. Also, don’t eat any food that’s been out of the cooler for more than an hour, as the sun can cause rapid spoilage.

Al fresco dining is one of the many pleasures that summertime offers, and one that can be adapted to accommodate a variety of budgets, locations and guest lists.   Get creative with your cuisine and accessories and take the party outside...la bella vita awaits!