Pack a Basket of Fun & Flavor for On-the-Go Goat Cheese Goodness
Picnics are one of life’s simple pleasures. Whether it's a sunny summer day, a crisp autumn afternoon, or even a cozy winter evening by the fire, there's something special about packing a basket of craveable noshes and pausing for a magical moment with your significant other or favorite friends. And, what better way to savor the experience than by making goat cheese the center of your picnic spread? With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, LaClare goat cheese is unrivaled in its versatility and pairs beautifully with a variety of sips and snacks.
Let’s explore how you can elevate your next picnic with goat cheese and make it a delightful event anytime, anywhere.
Picnics for Any Season, Any Reason
Picnics aren’t just for summer anymore. From spring blossoms to winter wonderlands, any season can be picnicking season if you plan it right. Imagine a spring picnic with light goat cheese salads served among blooming flowers and a lovely rosé. Or perhaps an autumn picnic featuring one of our favorite (limited time only!) fall flavors, Pumpkin chèvre, served with your choice of crackers and a spiced cider—all while you do a little leaf peeping. Even in the chilliest of months, you can enjoy a well-crafted goat cheese & charcuterie board, complemented by hearty bread and mulled wine, while you snuggle up with your sweetheart and watch the snow fly.
Make Goat Cheese the Main Event
With so much flavor, a little goat cheese goes a long way, so it can easily be the centerpiece of your picnic. (Cheese Connoisseur agrees with us!) We suggest making your snacks shareable for simple packing—and serving. And to make it memorable, here are some picnic-worthy recipes to get you started:
Goat Cheese Snack Pack – The perfect pick for your on-the-go show and completely customizable with an endless array of goodies to include. Start with your favorite hard and/or soft goat cheese and everything else is a bonus. (Pro tip: Personalize each pack with a handwritten note.)
Spinach and Goat Feta Cheese Salad – The fresh flavors of this crisp, classic salad are welcome year-round. (Pro tip: Make ahead in mason jars for easy travel.)
Turkey & Chèvre Sandwich – This modest-sounding sammie brings together a bounty of turkey, rye bread, our creamy Original LaClare goat cheese, spring greens, and a sweet, tart finish in the cranberry aioli. (Pro tip: Make these grilled go-tos right before heading out and wrap them in foil before packing your picnic to ensure you and your guests savor all the flavor.)
Goat Cheese Brownies – What meal is complete without a little something sweet? Next to goat cheese, we believe chocolate to be a necessity, so we wouldn’t pass on these. (Pro tip: Depending on the season and the venue, you may want to grab coffee from a nearby café or stand. Or, if you’re staying put and staying warm inside, sip on some hot cocoa from the comfort of home.)
How to Set the Stage (and Mood) for Your Picnic
Creating ambiance for your picnic is equally important to making sure the food you select is just right. Choose a theme that matches the vibe you’re looking to create:
Romantic Picnic: Soft blankets, candles in jars, and delicate florals set a romantic tone. Pair with a Goat Mozzarella Fondue and wine. (This one is for couples … and snuggling up inside.)
Family Fun Picnic: Opt for a playful setting with colorful blankets or cushions, outdoor games, and kid-friendly goat cheese recipes like grilled cheese sandwiches.
All About Fall Picnic: Hit the park and settle in at a picnic table or grab a blanket and set up on the sidelines of your kiddo’s next football or soccer game. Level in the crisp autumn air and have a ball celebrating all things fall. Our Cranberry Goat Cheese Ball is bursting with flavor and pairs perfectly with a light, fruity Pinot Noir. (If you’re heading to see kids play, we suggest keeping the beverages NA.)
Snow Day Picnic: Create a cozy retreat inside in front of your favorite window and feel the peace of watching the snowflakes fall. Warm throws, hot beverages, and comfort foods like Three-Cheese Lasagna Soup can turn a chilly day into a warm memory.
What to Pack for Your Picnic
Packing for a goat cheese-centric picnic requires some thought to ensure everything stays fresh and delicious. We’re here to help make sure that happens with this picnic checklist:
Cooler Bag: Keep your goat cheese and other perishables cool.
Portable Plates & Utensils: Bring a good cheese knife and cutting board, as well as plates and flatware for you and your guests.
Beverages: Don’t forget a bottle opener if you’re bringing wine. Add cups or glasses and a thermos for hot drinks/soups.
Blanket & Cushions: Make it comfy with a large blanket and cushions for seating.
Reusable Containers: For eco-friendly packing, use reusable containers and cutlery.
Napkins & Wipes: Keep things tidy with cloth napkins and wet wipes.
Music: A curated picnic playlist can only add to the memories in the making.
Fresh Flowers: Bring a small bunch to set the table for a beautiful day or pick your own bouquet along the way. Don’t forget to stop and smell them too!
Furry Friends: Encourage your picnic guests to bring their pups, if you’re in a pet-friendly place, and don’t forget the dog treats.
Trash Bag: Leaving your space as you found it—or better—is important, so make sure to clean up after the picnic party is over. And, if your furry friends do join, make sure to pick up after them as well.
As you plan for your picnic, make sure to know the lay of the land for where you’re headed and check the weather before you go, especially if you’re planning to dine al fresco. You may want to pack sunscreen, a hat and shades, bug spray, an umbrella, or an extra blanket depending on the time of year you go.
Get Inspired
Need more ideas? Inspiration is everywhere! Visit local farmers markets or browse online food blogs and social media for creative recipes and picnic setups. Sources like Pinterest and Instagram can provide endless inspiration for styling your picnic and incorporating goat cheese into your menu. You might even find local events or goat cheese tasting tours that can offer new ideas and flavors to try.
Plan a Picnic Your Way, Today
Whether you're planning a romantic date, a family outing, or a peaceful afternoon alone, a picnic centered around goat cheese goodness can be memorable for both you and your taste buds. With a little inspiration and creativity, you can turn any picnic into a gourmet experience, no matter the season or occasion.
So, grab your basket, your blanket, and your favorite LaClare goat cheese—and get ready to elevate your next picnic.