Picnic pleasures

Pack up some tasty treats and eat outside, says Rachel Allen, who loves a picnic of any sort, and shares her favourite recipes

Be it a flask of coffee after my daily early morning swim; a sandwich and slice of cake in our local woods, or a sneaky cocktail after an evening stroll down the road, I love a picnic of any sort. Of course whatever food or drinks you’re bringing need to be easily portable and not get into a mess on the commute.

This quinoa and pomegranate salad is a delicious little lunchtime treat, and accompanied by some roasted vegetables or roast chicken, it’ll make a great picnic lunch.

Probably the most quintessential picnic fare of all, a classic pork and egg picnic pie, is easily transportable. It’s substantial, but not too heavy, and tastes just dreamy enjoyed in the great outdoors. It’s divine eaten with chutney or pickles and cheese on the side, too, if you fancy packing those as well.

This is now elderflower season, with big heads of pretty white flowers blossoming on elder trees all round the country. They have a particularly fresh floral flavour that works so well with lemon, and this cake

“This is now elderflower season, with big heads of pretty white flowers blossoming on elder trees all round the country”

really is perfect for picnics at this time of the year. Make your own elderflower cordial, or just pick up a bottle — it’s now easily available and can be used in everything from curds and cakes to drinks and cocktails – try adding just one teaspoon into a glass of white or sparkling wine.