My go-to mom strategy in winter is to stick to a schedule of sorts; when it’s cold and dark out and I’m stuck indoors with a toddler, it’s often easiest to get through the day when things unfold like clockwork, without too many surprises to throw us off course. Come summer though, the warmer weather and longer days beckon us outdoors, and seem to make more space for spontaneity—especially around mealtime. This season, I’m planning to keep things fun for my family with these easy-to-execute al-fresco dining ideas—and I’m making delicious, easy-to-prep, grab-and-go options from the PC Insiders Collection, my partners-in-picnicking crime. —Noa Nichol
picnic in the park. Over the years I’ve developed a number of hacks that have helped enable many pleasantly unplanned picnics. A good place to start is by investing in a picnic set or basket that comes "fully loaded" with park-friendly dishes, cups and cutlery, so packing is a no-brainer. Another must-have accessory: a blanket with a moisture-repellant underside, so that you and your little picnickers stay comfy and dry on the grass. Food-wise, go for park-friendly fare that can be whipped up quickly at home and easily transported to your favourite green space—like your favourite rippled potato chips, the perfect side to and buttery brioche bun sandwiches made with cold cuts. (Personally, I love layering roast beef with wasabi mayo and coleslaw.) As for drinks, simply mix up a batch of fruit-infused water in the handy PC Infusion Pitcher, which features a built-in strainer and a removable ice tube to keep things cold (pro tip: you can use it to whip up a batch of adult-only sangria, too!).
barbecue on the beach. When it comes to beachside barbecuing, the most crippling aspect can be the grill itself. Better (in my opinion) to leave the bulky ‘cue at home and head to a shoreline that offers grills for public use. Set yourself up next to one of these beauties and do up a feast for the fam, including pre-prepped (read: easy-peasy) PC Gigantico Garlic & Herb Grilling Raw Butterflied Shrimp
(that have been marinated with a delicate garlic and herb seasoning and a zesty hint of lime) and PC Cheddar Jalapeño Smokies Fully Cooked Smoked Pork Sausages (they’re a cinch to grill, and delicious topped with picante red pepper). As for drinks, skip the glassware and take self-contained sips instead—something fun and fruity for the kids and, for the adults, canned PC Cold Brew Nitro Black Coffee (so velvety, you’ll want to skip the milk).
dessert on the deck. Some nights, eating dinner inside simply makes more sense (after, say, a long day of work and daycare). But that doesn’t mean you can’t move a portion of your meal outdoors—and dessert provides the perfect opportunity to do just that! Let the kids (little and big) pick a no-fuss-no-muss pop from the freezer—new PC Superfruit Skyr Lactose-Free Icelandic-Style Yogurt Bars and PC Ice Cream Shop Rocky Road Mini Ice Cream Bars are going to be in stock in my cold storage all season long—throw open the patio doors and enjoy a sweet treat (or two, or three) in the great summery outdoors.
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