School’s out, it’s a great time for family road trips and picnics. Here’s an article from Izzy with tips on how to prepare.
So, you’re driving down the highway; the kids are arguing in the back seat, lunch time is fast approaching, and you can definitely hear the unmistakable groan of rumbling bellies. If the last thing you want to do is go in search of a restaurant which can accommodate your brood, a picnic is the perfect solution to lunching en route. Here, Izzy from Midrive.com has some handy hints and tips to help you create the perfect road trip picnic.
Preparing a healthy, tasty picnic for all the family doesn’t have to mean hard work and hours in the kitchen. In fact, there are some really quick and simple recipes which the kids will love, and which they can even help to prepare!
Plan your stop-off
Before you go, look up places to stop on the map. Ideally, you’ll plan to stop at a grassy, outside area with some shade, but we all know that’s not always possible to find. Alternatively, you could stop at a services rest stop, or find a place to park away from the busy road. Be sure to take a blanket, some plastic plates, cups, and plenty of napkins with you. Take plenty of water and soft drinks with you, or, if its a cold day, you could take a flask filled with tea or hot chocolate.
What to make
Mini pizzas
Kids love them, we love them, and you can put whatever you want on them. Make or buy in some pizza bases, cover them with your favorite toppings and stick them in the oven. Ask the kids what they want on theirs and let them have a go at decorating them themselves. It could get a little messy, but when it comes to eating them there’ll be no fights over whose is whose.
Or…
You could make some pitta pockets with wholemeal pitta bread, and stuff them with different fillings. This makes for a great alternative to sandwiches and is equally as filling.
Fruity side salad
It’s easy to throw together, healthy and tasty. Mix up a salad, but make it a bit different by adding grapes, mangoes, pear and any other fruit you like. This colorful dish looks so inviting that the kids just won’t be able to resist!
Chicken skewers
Another easy to make dish, chicken skewers are a delicious classic at any picnic. Marinate them in your favorite tried and tested sauce, cook them off and adds some peppers, courgette or onion to make mini chicken kebabs. Serve them cold and remember to take the skewers home to be reused!
Salsa dip
It’s easy to make, tastes great and is good for you. All you need is some tomatoes, onion, cucumber, coriander and lime juice. Finely chop and mix it all together, adding anything you know the kids will love. Serve with potato or corn chips, because we all know kids love those!
Cous cous or rice
For a healthy side dish you could mix up some cous cous or rice with all the kids favorite – or not so favorite – vegetables. The best thing about these dishes is that you can make it look tempting whilst disguising all the healthy stuff!
Sweet tooth
No picnic is complete without dessert. From healthier varieties to the really indulgent fun stuff, there are so many delicious treats to make that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Tiffin bars
The kids can help you with this one, if you can trust them around all that chocolate mixture, that is! Melt and mix in the butter, sugar, golden syrup and cocoa, add the raisins and biscuits, and place into a baking tin. Pour the melted chocolate over the top, and give the whole thing an hour to set in the fridge.
Rainbow cookies
Mix up a batch of cookies, and add smarties, chocolate drops or white chocolate buttons. Creative kids will love helping you design them, and there’ll be none left over after!
Fruit salad
For a healthier option, a classic fruit salad is perfect. Take some low-fat frozen yoghurt in the cool box, and put a scoop in the bowl to make the perfect summer dessert.
Eton Mess
This British classic is just as easy to make as the fruit salad, but makes for a slightly different option. Crush up some meringue, and mix in some double cream, strawberries, raspberries and fruit coulis. Put some in individual tubs to avoid any messiness when you get there.
So, you’ve got the picnic packed, cd’s in the stereo and raincoats in the back (just in case). Now all you need to do is round up the kids!
This guest post was written by Izzy Guarella, who writes for UK-based company, www.midrive.com.
patricia Marsden
Wednesday 10th of July 2013
Family road trips of length often picnics--healthier food, kid friendly choices, and less cost. On the go vista like food are best leisurely savored.