Outdoor Living - Planning a Gourmet Picnic

Picnics have long been enjoyed for many types of occasions - family get-togethers, casual parties, a practical pit-stop during a road trip or just an excuse to enjoy a beautiful day. Most people probably don't imagine a picnic as being appropriate for a formal occasion - but now, with the debut of stunning gourmet picnic baskets, a dining experience on a picnic blanket in the fresh air joined with tuxedos, cocktail dresses and fine china seems altogether natural!

A gourmet picnic can be a unique, unexpected way to celebrate anniversaries, special achievements, or simply to treat yourself and your loved ones to the finer things in life. Set up a fun outdoor soiree on the lawn of a historical mansion and have high tea, just as the Queen of England frequently does on the grounds of Buckingham Palace. Enjoy a delicious upscale brunch in the garden with croissants, fresh fruit, fine cheeses and mimosas.

Planning a gourmet picnic is simple, and finding the perfect gourmet picnic basket is the place to start. Look for a basket with sophisticated details, designer touches and all the comforts of home - or that expensive little bistro downtown. The Elite Picnic Basket for Four is a wonderful option - the elegance and luxury of a bygone era are captured in the details of this handcrafted basket. It includes a European hand-woven full reed willow basket, leather accents, Italian ceramic plates, polished stainless steel flatware, bistro glasses, stainless steel coffee service and a water resistant blanket. Many other convenient items are also included, such as an insulated wine pouch and cloth napkins. It's easy to imagine luxuriating in a delicious gourmet meal with the finery that this basket offers. Some other good choices include the Crystal Wine Glass Lover's Basket, which includes real crystal, the designer-created Bridgewater Summertime Tulips Basket, and the Sunshine Picnic Basket for 4, which was featured on the hit television series 'Desperate Housewives'.

Plan your gourmet picnic meal with the help of some online recipe sources such as Epicurious.com. This highly regarded recipe collection includes an entire section of picnic recipes such as Stuffed Eggs with Goat Cheese and Dill, Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Sandwiches with Tarragon Mayonnaise and Peach and Berry Compote. Whip up a few of these impressive dishes at home before the picnic, or simply consult your favorite gourmet restaurant to have your picnic custom catered.

Last but not least, don't forget the little extras that can make an ordinary occasion much more special and memorable. Fresh flowers, candles, music, and an inspired setting are the icing on the cake of a beautiful gourmet picnic.