The experience of eating a beautiful dinner together in the great outdoors, surrounded by the splendor of nature, has a certain allure.
Do you know where the word “picnic” originated? The English term “picnic” is derived from the French phrase “pique-nique,” which can be roughly translated as “choose a little something.” The term first appeared in written form in the 17th century and was initially used to refer to restaurant patrons who brought their bottles of wine with them. The picnic concept soon evolved into a potluck gathering in the open air, where each guest brought something to contribute to the celebration.
The Americans, who aspired to achieve the same level of sophistication as the Parisians, followed suit. By the 19th century, they had wholeheartedly adopted the tradition of going on picnics, which has continued until today.
Picnics are an excellent opportunity to celebrate Labor day weekend and a fun way to catch up with family and friends while indulging in some fantastic food and drinks. They also make for an Insta-worthy photo opportunity.
If you’re planning to host a Labor Day shindig, this article offers some wonderful food and wine pairing ideas.
Labor Day Picnic Ideas
Side dishes served during Labor Day celebrations.
Classic side dishes like salad, bread, and roasted vegetables are excellent labor day party food ideas because they go well with everything. However, it would be best to consider how you will serve side dishes, ensuring they complement your main entrees. Preparing side dishes that are easy to eat, don’t spoil quickly, and can be served hot or cold should also be considered.
Grilled food suggestions for your picnic.
Grilling something quick and easy, such as burgers, corn on the cob, hotdogs, pork chops, or fish, is always the best way to go for picnics. Preparing and serving quick and easy food frees up your time so you can spend it with family and friends gathered around the picnic fare.
Essential items you need to prepare for the activity.
If it’s a barbecue party, fire up the grill beforehand, and all the grilling tools, such as the tongs, spatula, and grilling fork, are all cleaned and ready to be used. Make sure you have enough charcoals or propane to last throughout the event, or at least enough to cook all your food. Seats and tables or picnic blankets, utensils, drinks, and plates are just some essentials you must prepare before the first guest arrives.
Another helpful labor day picnic idea is to arrange your meal based on the number of guests and their ages. If the picnic includes children, prepare fried chicken, fries, muffins, sandwiches, and other kid-friendly treats.
Items to Pack for Your Labor Day Picnic
- Picnic blanket
- Soft cushions
- Cheese board platter
- Wine glasses
- Cheese/ Bread knife
- Tongs
- Bottle opener
- Biodegradable plates, spoons, and fork
- Paper napkins
- Trash bags
Food and Wine Pairing Party Ideas For Your Labor Day Picnic
Based on the wine and food pairing chart, it doesn’t matter where you eat and drink; what matters most is that your food and wine complement each others’ flavors.
Furthermore, food that can be eaten with your hands is ideal for picnics because it’s easy to consume. Likewise, your wine should be something you’d be comfortable storing in a cooler bag.
Picnic food pairing with Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most popular white wine varieties in the country. It’s known for its refreshingly crisp taste and “grassy” aroma, making it the perfect drink for warm days. Like all white wines, Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with seafood. One such seafood dish to try with this amazing wine is grilled Tiger Prawns with a dash of lemon.
Picnic food pairing with Rosé
On a hot summer day, who doesn’t want to enjoy a crisp, dry rosé? This wine is not only visually appealing, but it is also incredibly flavorful. Rosé pairs perfectly with a plate of cut watermelon, a big bowl of strawberries, and creamy brie. Additionally, place some smoked salmon on your cheese board for something savory, and don’t forget the baguette.
Picnic food pairing with Prosecco
This sparkling little darling is a real crowd-pleaser since it is simple, light, crisp, and refreshing. It will pair perfectly with most of the items in your picnic basket as Prosecco is a versatile wine that goes well with just about any food type.
Labor Day party food ideas like raw fish with sparkling wine have always been a match made in heaven on a picnic. For a relaxing afternoon, it would be best to serve sushi and sashimi, chill some Prosecco, and settle in under a tree with some good music while enjoying your Labor day weekend picnic.
Picnic food pairing with Chardonnay
A contemporary medium-bodied Chardonnay with just a trace of oak, fresh green apple acidity, and minerality is the ideal wine to pair with almost any food. It goes well with chicken, but it’s also ideal to serve it with a vegetarian quiche or frittatas during picnic celebrations. Additionally, you can also consider pairing it with roasted pumpkin and feta. Make sure to pack a bottle of Chardonnay for your next picnic in the park.
Picnic food pairing with Pinot Noir
It’s recommended to serve the lovely Pinot Noir slightly cold. Take it out of the cooler a few minutes before you are ready to drink, especially if the day is hot. Moreover, it’s one of the perfect food and wine pairing party ideas to charcuterie’s salty, fatty flavor, thanks to its notes of cherry and ripe raspberry.
Conclusion
Remember that there are no right or wrong answers for food and wine pairing ideas for your Labor Day picnic celebrations. However, it is always good to be prepared, and following the ideas suggested in this article will help you prepare a splendid picnic that all can enjoy.
Let’s Celebrate Labor Day With Village Warehouse Wines and Spirits.
Cheers to all the hardworking individuals out there! Today is Labor Day! And nothing beats spending quality time with your friends and loved ones gathered around a picnic. There’s no better way to celebrate this event than to enjoy these food and wine pairing ideas with family and friends. Make this gourmet experience possible with a visit to a liquor store in Vail. Select from their extensive range and enjoy the perfect wine for your Labor Day picnic. Visit us now.
