taking it to the streets….
Recently, I have had the opportunity to love on several friends by delivering a lovely lunch to them and staying to serve it and have some time of fellowship with them. I find this a fulfilling activity for both of us. It is an especially special way to show your love to someone who is healing from surgery or has just had a baby or someone who has recently moved and might be still living out of boxes.
When I put together these picnic lunches for us, I like to take everything with me, not just what I have planned for us to eat and drink. And I mean EVERYTHING — dishes, utensils, napkins, glasses, serving pieces, all of it….That way, the mess goes home with you and there is nothing left for you recipient to have to worry with!
These little “picnics” can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like. I tend to err more on the elaborate side because I love putting together beautiful recipes and table settings. I love to pack up vintage china and linens and the good silver. It makes such a beautiful and special spread in their home! However, I also know how busy life is, and sometimes, I just need to artfully craft store bought ingredients and simple plates into a lovely and unique offering. No matter how you choose to do it, it will be just perfect!
Here are a few menus that I have used recently for my picnic lunches:
For the “new mommy”
Smoked Salmon on toasted English muffins with pickled onion and green goddess dip
Arugula salad with basil infused olive oil, salt, and pepper
Fresh strawberries with chocolate hummus
For the “friend recovering from surgery”
Chicken and cheese quesadillas with cilantro salsa
Southwest salad
Sliced avocado
Tortilla chips with fresh salsa
For the “still living out of boxes friend”
Chicken Tortilla Soup with cheese, sour cream, avocado, and fresh onion and cilantro
Tortilla chips
Pre-made margaritas
All of these menus combine both homemade and store bought, making them easy to prepare and transport. Remember that it doesn’t matter what you take. What matters is that you made the time to make someone feel special and loved!