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Perfect Romantic Memorial Day Picnic Box for Two

romantic memorial day picnic box for two - featured image
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A quick and easy picnic box featuring whipped feta cheese spread, fresh grilled vegetables, grilled chicken, crusty bread, fresh berries, and a light bubbly drink, perfect for a romantic outdoor meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ounces whipped feta cheese (or cream cheese, softened)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill or basil
  • Pinch of cracked black pepper
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
  • 1 yellow squash, sliced lengthwise
  • 1 red bell pepper, quartered
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 small chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each), thinly sliced
  • Crusty baguette slices or artisan crackers
  • 1 cup fresh seasonal berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
  • Dark chocolate squares (optional)
  • Homemade sparkling lemonade or chilled rosé

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine whipped feta cheese, fresh lemon juice, chopped fresh dill or basil, and cracked black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a small airtight container and chill.
  2. Wash and slice zucchini and yellow squash lengthwise into thin strips about 1/4 inch thick. Quarter the red bell pepper and wash cherry tomatoes. Toss all veggies lightly in olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper.
  3. Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill zucchini, squash, and bell peppers, turning every 3-4 minutes until tender and lightly charred. Add cherry tomatoes last, grilling 2-3 minutes until slightly blistered. Remove and let cool slightly, then pack into a container.
  4. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Grill on medium heat about 6-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing thinly. Pack sliced chicken in a separate container.
  5. Slice crusty baguette into 1/2-inch thick pieces and place in a container. Rinse and dry mixed berries and pack separately.
  6. Arrange cheese spread, grilled veggies, chicken, bread, and berries neatly in a picnic box or basket. Pack sparkling lemonade or rosé chilled in an insulated sleeve.

Notes

Cheese spread and grilled vegetables can be prepared a few hours ahead and kept chilled. Chicken is best grilled fresh but can be cooked the day before and stored chilled. Use airtight containers to prevent sogginess. For vegetarian option, substitute grilled chicken with marinated grilled portobello mushrooms. For low-carb, replace bread with cucumber slices or keto-friendly crackers. Use dairy-free cheese and gluten-free bread for allergen-friendly adaptations.

Nutrition

Keywords: picnic, Memorial Day, romantic meal, grilled vegetables, whipped feta, grilled chicken, easy picnic, outdoor meal

Find it online: https://emmastirs.com/perfect-romantic-memorial-day-picnic-box-for-two-easy-ideas-to-impress/