This is the fourth installment in The Family Dinner Project’s Family Picnic series. This summer, as many families continue different levels of social distancing while others begin heading back to work and child care, it’s important that families have fresh ways to connect and enjoy each other’s company. We’re adding new family picnic menus and ideas throughout the summer on our Family Picnics page, and hope you’ll make a weekly family picnic part of your routine. This is the perfect time to get outside and have fun together with some food, fun and conversation!
This Week’s Family Picnic Menu
There’s nothing better than fresh summer produce, especially when it’s ripe fruit! Try summer peaches in an unusual fruit-and-cheese quesadilla this week. Add a layered black bean dip that you can use for dipping the quesadillas themselves, or provide cut veggies and tortilla chips for extra crunch. Make sure to have the kids mix up some Coconut Fudge Pops and stash them in the freezer early in the day, so you’ll have a cool treat to enjoy at the end of the meal!
Peaches, cheese and fresh herbs are an unbeatable combination in these Grilled Peach Quesadillas, which were also featured in our book Eat, Laugh, Talk: The Family Dinner Playbook. Use spicy pepper jack cheese for family members who like a little heat, or milder Monterey Jack to keep things on the mellow side.
Layered dips are an all-time picnic classic. Even the youngest chefs can help make this one, which comes together in just minutes with a handful of quick ingredients.
Finish your picnic with a cool, creamy, dairy-free frozen treat! Let the kids stir and pour, and make sure to leave at least 3 hours for the pops to chill before you unmold them.
Four-Ingredient Coconut Fudge Popsicles
Fun
Who can resist an old-fashioned guessing game? “I Spy” is great for all ages, indoors or out, which means it’s a fantastic way to pass the time while you’re enjoying your picnic dinner.
Conversation
This week, spend some time getting to know each other better (yes, even after months of social distancing together, there are things you might not know!). Try these interview questions to get you started.
