Chilled wine, quality cheese, cured meats, seasonal fruit, and homemade bread are just a few of life’s simple pleasures. They also happen to be a few of my favorite things and the makings of a spectacular Summer picnic.

I grew up in the PNW and even though I’ve hopped around a bit and spent time in Europe, Asia, and the Midwest, I still have that classic feeling that Pacific Northwesteners have; as soon as the sun comes out we have to spend every second outside. And as someone who is so passionate about food, the first sight of Summer screams “picnic!” So that’s exactly what I did.

Firstly, a bottle of chilled Rosé! This was a local one from my favorite market.

I also grabbed way too many strawberries, thanks to a sale going on.

And then after flirting a bit with the cheesemonger, he convinced me to spend way too much on some truly delicious cheese…

All that was left was some cured meats and a loaf of my homemade rustic bread. The perfect way to enjoy the warm weather with friends!