The Age of COVID: Food Trends + Picnics

One of the few activities that is both a fun and easy way for you (and those within your bubble) to enjoy an afternoon outside (while being safe!) is a simple picnic. Many can agree that they’ve attended more picnics in the last two weeks than they have in the last two years. Taken a stroll past Central Park recently? Or quite frankly any outdoor space? It’s packed with people sprawled on blankets, holding balloons or bags filled with food to celebrate a birthday or just a day with friends.

With this new trend comes new opportunities to enjoy some delicious dishes…but the real question is, what should you pack for a picnic? While we’d all love to hop on the trend of whipped coffee or pancake cereal…some things just don’t travel well! See below for some of our favorite ways to take the “hot” food trends of today and turn them into a delicious meal for you and your friends and family.

1) Grab and go!

For many people it’s all about the easy grab-and-go dishes, and over the past few months we’ve seen an explosion of DIY boards. We’re talking charcuterie boards stacked with fresh prosciutto, cheese and seasonal fruits. Dips that can be enjoyed with crackers or freshly cut carrots. The key is to avoid any dish that needs to be kept warm! Who wants to eat cold chicken buffalo dip?

2) Take me away!

One of the best trends to come out of quarantine? Outside of extended family bonding… definitely to-go cocktails. With nearly every local restaurant offering to-go options, this is an easy way to supply your next post-work meet up at the park. Whether it’s grabbing your favorite Thai food to-go or a meal kit from your local Italian restaurant around the street – these are easy ways to enjoy your time outside.

3) Snack attack!

Put those quarantine recipes (that you’ve been making non-stop) to use and bring along some easy snacks to enjoy after the main meal is finished. From re-creating your favorite TikTok recipe (we’ve all got one!) to finally cracking open your favorite blogger’s cookbook, it’s sure to be a hit.  

Voila! It’s that easy. Use these tips and tricks to plan your next outdoor feast with you and your bubble. When our “new normal” begins to fade, do you think these picnic dishes or fun TikTok trends will continue to thrive?

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