12 picnic-perfect recipes

Michael Alberstat

As summer can be so fleeting, my friends and I cherish the time we can spend outdoors - this means lots of backyard barbecues and picnic parties in the park.

We were inspired to pack our own basket and seize the park after hearing the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation's announcement to launch a flash picnic to celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Cook for the Cure. This event is ''part flash mob, part picnic' and will be held at a secret location in Toronto on Monday, June 25 (guests will be notified via text beforehand). Attendees are encouraged to dress in white and to bring their own prepared picnic-friendly snack. Join us - Chatelaine will be there to support and picnic under the stars! 12 picnic-friendly ideas: These picnic-perfect crudites jars with moroccan hummus make a great portable appetizer.

Sandwiches are classic picnic fare - try one of our easy al fresco options:  tarragon-chicken sandwiches with red grapes, updated tuna salad sandwich, creamy artichoke and smoked salmon tea sandwiches, Swedish-style egg, dill and beet on rye or rosemary-ricotta pesto croissant with apple

Cold salads are delicious and easy to carry in tupperware (and jars!) - balsamic grilled chicken salad, summer corn-pasta salad, potato salad with parsley vinaigrette, wheat-berry, kale and cranberry salad,watermelon & cucumber salad

You'll definitely make friends in the park with our classic lemon loaf, so I'd recommend baking up two loaves.