A Late Summer Picnic

Just because the calendar says September that doens't mean to put away the picnic basket and blanket. It's a still beautiful time of year to have a beach or lakeside gathering of your favorite foods.There may be a twist of something hot added but that's about it. Otherwise enjoy a lovely meal under sunny , and cool blue skies

This is still the harvest season so you can pack farm fresh tomatoes along with cucumbers and peppers. The tomatoes can be made in a variety of ways, as a sandwich , eaten plain w ith sea salt or sliced as a side. Cucumbers are good sliced thick and crunchy and dressed with a spicy vinaigrette. You can also make a lovely sour cream and dill dressing too This is a refreshing departure from your average cole slaw. peppers are good , just sliced and waiting to be dipped in little ups of ranch or onion dip or in any kind of salad. Of course this is a picnic so have plenty o or sandwiches with cold sodas or better yet chilled non alcoholic cider.

The weather, which depends on where you, are may get a nip to it. You can still enjoy a lovely outdoor meal. Try bringing along different soups in thermos to warm up. A hot tomato soup along with oysterettes is like a foodie blanket, protecting you from the chill .Another choice is a smooth squash or pumpkin soup with rice. You can also bring along little containers of butter or cream to add to the soup's taste and texture. Spice up your condiments too. Think about adding a hot mustard to your mayo or sprinkling a few drops of chili powder to your ketchup. Also tote along a thermos of hot tea, coffee or cocoa instead of the usual cold drinks.

Just because we're on our way to fall, it doens't mean to forgo all our fun summer activities . Plan a fun picnic at your favorite lake or ocean beach , and bring a hamper full of the best of the season.It's a great way to enjoy September's cool blue skies and refreshing breezes.