Why Winter Picnics Are Worth Trying

If you think picnics are just for balmy summer days, think again. Some of the most pleasurable times I have are driving up into the mountains after a snowfall with a winter picnic and a few friends in tow. One other thing that I like is that there are no flies or bugs to swat and no other people to share the picnic table. Usually the forest is yours, and I like that. You don’t have to tote a lot of equipment or tools to enjoy a simple meal outside when it’s cold.
Here are some ideas and a recipe for enjoying a pre-or-post-snowball fight feast on a clear winter day.

Essential Tips for Winter Picnics

Sometimes I take a small gas stove. As for the plates and the other kitchen items, I have them already in a box that stays packed for the quick get away. Take along a large poncho or plastic tarp to lay on the snow, and you’ll be assured of a dry place to sit when it’s time to eat. Then enjoy this delicious spicy hot chili that you’ve prepared ahead, with accompanying salads, chips, desserts and drinks of your choice. 

A Perfect Winter Picnic Recipe: Saucy Chili

  • 1 tablespoon extra-light olive oil
  • 1 pound extra-lean ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 medium green pepper, coarsely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon each cayenne pepper and paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 28-ounce can stewed tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 2 small cans kidney beans, drained
  • 3/4 pound Cheddar cheese, shredded

   Spicy Sour Cream Topping:

  • 1 8-ounce carton low-fat sour cream
  • 1/3 cup red salsa
  • 1/2 teaspoon each chili powder and onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Saute ground beef in oil until brown in large frying pan.

Add onion, pepper and garlic. Transfer to Dutch oven or stock pot.

Add tomatoes and tomato sauce.

Bring mixture to boil and simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add beans and heat.

Serve in hollowed out bread bowls or French bread loaves and serve with grated cheese and sour cream topping.

Serves 6-8.



Roughing It Easy

Take all of Dian’s tips & tricks with
you on your next outdoor adventure!