How to Plan a Cheap Picnic Menu
A picnic is a great way to enjoy a meal with friends on a beautiful day, and are usually inexpensive and easy to plan. You're only limited by your imagination and resources when putting together the menu. If you're trying to keep your costs down for your picnic, follow a few simple tips to have a picnic that's enjoyable and delicious without breaking the bank. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Set a budget for your picnic menu. Having a set budget ensures you don't overspend and make cost-effective choices when purchasing the items you'll need. Budget for a main dish, appetizers, drinks, desserts and any other types of food you want to include as part of your picnic.
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Take stock of items you already have. You may already have many of the food and drink items you need in your kitchen for a small picnic of three to five people. Only purchase the items you don't already have and expressly need for your menu.
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Find inexpensive, easy-to-prepare recipes. Sandwiches are a popular and traditional picnic food that are cheap and easy to make. Side dishes, such as salads and finger foods, can also be simplified to be made with basic, cheap ingredients.
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Ask guests to bring food or drink items to cut down on costs. It's common for guests to supply a side dish or a drink as a contribution to the picnic. Not only does it make the menu less expensive for you, but it gives other people the opportunity to enjoy other people's favorite recipes.
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Learn about and look for fruits and vegetables that are in season and can be purchased inexpensively from your local farmers market. Local and in season fruits and vegetables are generally more cost effective.
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References
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