How to picnic the French way

Forget the wicker hamper stuffed with foie gras, oysters and a perfectly chilled bottle of grand cru. A real French picnic is usually much less elaborate – and all the better for it. More often than not, it’s whatever can be picked up from a boulangerie, fromagerie, charcuterie and greengrocer on the way to the park, beach or riverbank.  

 A proper baguette 

A fresh baguette is de rigueur – ideally a baguette tradition, made using stricter production rules than a standard baguette. It serves as cutlery, plate and sandwich all in one. If there’s any left over, pieces are simply torn off to accompany the cheese. 

One or two cheeses – not a cheeseboard 

Visitors often assume the French lay out half a dozen cheeses. In reality, many families take just one or two, chosen according to the weather. Comté, Tomme de Savoie or Cantal travel well, while a ripe Camembert or Brie is best kept out of direct sunshine. The aim is to eat everything, not bring home leftovers. 

Charcuterie 

A few slices of jambon blanc, saucisson sec or pâté are easy to share, require little preparation and pair naturally with bread and cheese. 

Seasonal fruit 

Instead of elaborate desserts, expect whatever is in season: strawberries in late spring, cherries and apricots in summer, peaches, nectarines or a bunch of grapes. Fruit travels well, needs little packaging and provides a refreshing finish. 

Something homemade 

Many French picnics include one dish prepared at home the night before. A slice of quiche, a tomato tart, lentil salad, or cake salé (a savoury loaf studded with cheese, olives or ham) is common because it tastes just as good at room temperature. 

A packet of crisps 

Not very glamorous, but very French. Alongside artisan food you’ll often find an ordinary bag of crisps, especially on family picnics. They provide crunch, require no preparation and disappear remarkably quickly. 

Something to drink 

Wine often makes an appearance, but it’s by no means obligatory. Sparkling water, fruit juice or homemade lemonade are just as common, particularly when children are involved. If wine is on the menu, it’s usually something uncomplicated and easy-drinking rather than anything expensive. 

Accoutrements 

A good knife will slice bread, cheese and saucisson, a corkscrew is essential if bringing wine, and real glasses are great if you can carry them safely, but reusable plastic glasses or even enamel mugs will do. 

So make the most of the sunshine and enjoy your pique-nique! 

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