Creating the perfect picnic

Now that the sun is shining over Oregon once again, it is the perfect time to go on a picnic. Picnics allow one to breathe in fresh air, get creative with meals and share the view with friends. 

Whether picnicking alone or with company, Riverview Park in Independence is the perfect picnic place. They provide many places to sit such as amphitheater seating, grass lawn and benches overlooking the Willamette River. The Riverview Park provides public wifi, allowing students to be able to work on homework while enjoying the outdoors.

When packing a picnic, the options are endless. Perhaps the best part about picnicking is how the food can be specifically catered for personal preferences. Nothing is off limits. Fruit, sandwiches, drinks and snacks are all great choices. Below are two recipes that keep well for any picnic.

PESTO TURKEY AVOCADO SANDWICH

Start to finish: 5 minutes

Yields: 1 serving

2 slices of nuts and seeds bread

1 leaf of romaine lettuce

3 slices of oven roasted turkey

1 slice of sharp cheddar cheese

½ an avocado, mashed

½ teaspoon of salt

½ teaspoon of pepper

1 ½ tablespoons of pesto

½ tablespoon of mayonnaise, optional

On one slice spread mashed avocado, season with salt and pepper. On the other slice of bread spread pesto and mayonnaise. Add smoked turkey, cheese and romaine lettuce. Place the first slice of bread on top. Slice in half and package appropriately.

BANANA SUSHI

Start to finish: 5 minutes

Yields: 2 servings

1 banana, sliced

3 tablespoons of extra crunchy peanut butter

1 tablespoon honey, optional

Place banana slices in a sealable container. Add a scoop of peanut butter to each slice. Drizzle with honey. Serve with chopsticks.