As Britain's weather starts to warm up, many families are seeking the perfect al fresco dining experience – but for some, reality often falls short of the idyllic vision. With a little insider knowledge, however, experts say you can elevate your outdoor dining from a soggy sandwich to a truly special occasion.
Luke Larsson, head chef and co-owner of Khao Bird in Soho, London, champions the humble Scotch egg as a picnic staple due to its structural integrity. He suggests a Thai-inspired version, featuring a soft-boiled egg encased in sai oua sausage meat, then breaded and deep-fried. Larsson advises allowing them to cool slightly before packing to maintain crispness, recommending a chilli jam or nam jim for dipping.
Manon Lagrève, author of La Saison, recommends the jambon beurre sandwich as a reliable choice, often enjoyed after family bike rides in France. She suggests using the best quality baguette and ham available, adding Comté cheese, cornichons, and salted butter. To prevent sogginess, Lagrève advises packing the components separately in a cool bag and assembling the sandwiches on arrival.
For those who prefer something more substantial, pâtés, terrines, and rillettes are ideal for outdoor dining, according to Lagrève. She suggests complementing these with fresh elements like grilled artichokes or stuffed peppers from your local supermarket. For a simple dessert, try pairing goat's cheese with jam.
Arancini make an excellent alternative to sandwiches, says Emily Roux, co-owner of Caractère in west London. She prepares a cacio e pepe-inspired risotto base, mixing in Pecorino and Parmesan with black pepper, then breading and freezing them for quick frying whenever the urge strikes.
Miles Tuddenham, co-founder of Roam in Devon, praises the versatility of well-made quiche – but suggests that high-quality tinned fish, such as anchovies or sardines, served with red onion, crusty bread, and olive oil, can be a surprisingly luxurious picnic treat. He advises editing your selection carefully to ensure you bring only the best items.