As the warmer weather approaches, summer comes into full swing, ushering in the perfect season for outdoor gatherings and picnics. A simple picnic out in the sun can be transformed into a memorable experience with a thoughtfully curated selection of food and summer drinks. Whether you are headed to the park, the beach, or your own garden at home, here are some fantastic summer picnic food pairing ideas that you can enjoy on your next gathering with loved ones.

Summer Fruit Salad 

A summer fruit salad is a refreshing and easy option to add sweetness to your gatherings. Combine strawberries, kiwis, pineapple, and blueberries for a classic dessert everyone can enjoy. Fruit salads are versatile, allowing you to substitute any ingredient with your favorite fruit.

Tips: 

- Add a touch of sweetness to your fruit salad by adding some honey

- Leave your salad in the fridge for 30 mins to an hour and add some mint leaves for a fresh summer treat 

Pair with: Saicho Jasmine sparkling tea, featuring delicate floral notes to complement the sweet, fruity flavours of your summer fruit salad

Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board or a summer grazing board is an effortless way to turn any picnic into an elegant event. Enjoy a selection of cured meats like prosciutto and salami, paired with soft, ripe cheeses like creamy brie, tangy feta, and earthy camembert. Add artisanal crackers, fresh berries, olives, and nuts for a delightful balance of textures and flavours.

Tips: 

- To add a slight nutty flavour profile to your board, add some aged cheddar.

- For a hint of sweetness to balance the flavour, add some dried apricots or figs.

Pair with: Saicho Darjeeling, featuring citrus and muscatel notes to complement the bold, savoury flavours on your board.

Sushi Rolls

Sushi rolls make a light and fun addition to your summer picnic, bringing a unique flavor to the traditional picnic menu. Alternate between fresh salmon, crispy prawn, or spicy tuna for an assortment of flavours.

Tips: 

- Make it vegetarian or vegan by substituting fish for crispy courgette, carrots and creamy avocados

- Dip your sushi rolls in some soy sauce with pickled ginger and wasabi for a slight kick of spice

Pair with: Saicho Hojicha sparkling tea, with notes of roasted chestnut to enhance the umami flavors of the sushi.

Finger Sandwiches

Finger sandwiches are a picnic essential, easy to make beforehand and perfect for sharing during your next summer picnic. Include classic smoked salmon or creamy egg sandwiches. Nestled between soft, crustless bread with a spread of butter, add a filling of your choice and garnish with dill or basil. Add cucumber slices for a slight crunch.

Tips: 

- For vegan options, try using vegan pesto with roast peppers or hummus with cucumbers as fillings for your sandwiches

- If you are preparing your sandwiches overnight, cover them with a damp paper towel and a small sheet of wax paper, then keep in an airtight container. 

Pair with: Saicho Jasmine sparkling tea, featuring delicate notes of apple, jasmine, and lychee, chilled and served in a champagne glass.

—-----

Picnics offer a wonderful opportunity to get outdoors and celebrate the summer. Embrace the vibrant sunshine flavours with any of these delectable summer picnic food pairing ideas, and enjoy a new way to celebrate your summer picnic by adding Saicho sparkling tea to your picnic menu. Available in convenient 200ml sizes, Saicho is the perfect summer drink for your picnics at the park or beach, adding a sophisticated, refreshing touch to your outdoor festivities.