The trick is to do some prep work in advance, and fi nd some simple recipes that you love and are quick to make. The following are some tips from Jami Scott, the healthy eating co-ordinator at Whole Foods Market, to help make your picnic low maintenance.
? Prepare what you can ahead of time, including cutting up veggies to make your own trail mix or making some of your favourite dips or raw desserts. It's easier to throw together an impressive picnic when you don't have to spend a lot of time chopping and mixing. Most veggies can last about a week in the fridge when they are cut. All you need is a few extra hours of kitchen prep time and some handy storage containers.
? Your freezer isn't just for ice. Freeze your favourite dips. Hummus doesn't take long to defrost and can be frozen in different sized containers depending on what you want to use it for. Avocados aren't the best to freeze, though, you're better off sticking to bean or veggie-based dips. Raw desserts are also easy to make and freeze.
? Make a heartier salad using kale or cabbage a few days in advance and put the dressing in a separate container. Wait until just before serving to toss together so it will taste fresh and the ingredients won't go soggy. Grain and legume salads are also great options and last for a while in the fridge.
