Enjoying a picnic in the Tuscan countryside is one of the most exquisite pleasures one can experience in Italy. Tuscan cuisine is known for its simple yet flavorful dishes which naturally lend themselves to outdoor dining.
If you can't make it out to Italy, you can always enjoy a Tuscan-inspired picnic at home. For an authentic Tuscan feel we recommend having ingredients like Tuscan bread, pecorino cheese and cured meats on hand. If possible, pair your food with wine and olive oils from Tuscany. If you are planning a Tuscan theme, why not splurge on the good stuff?
There are plenty of producers in the United States making artisanal Tuscan products. Some may be purchased through a Tuscan market while others are available online. If you are interested in buying high quality domestic olive oils we recommend McEvoy Ranch oils, which are made from Tuscan olives grown in California.
Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk about the recipes. Salads like panzanella, which is made with day-old bread and tomatoes, are a great option. This traditional crispy lampredotto sandwich is always a winner. For dessert, you'll love dipping a few Tuscan cantuccini biscuits in Vin Santo.
For more menu ideas, here are recommendations from Italian chef Marco Stabile:
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