Milder temps and sunshine mean it’s officially the start of picnic season – whether at a favorite park, the beach, or just under a tree in your backyard. Grab a blanket, invite some friends, and take along a bunch of these incredibly delish items from around Lil Rhody.
Pastry chef, chocolatier, and owner Aura Fajardo thoughtfully creates some of the yummiest and prettiest artisan chocolate in the state, using Venezuelan cocoa and regional ingredients. Grab one or three of her swirl bars, and stock up on gluten-free and vegan treats to add something sweet to your spread. Cranston, AurasChocolateBar.com
There’s a Betta Bakes crisp for everyone in your inner circle. With five varieties (including Classic Sea Salt and Everything Bagel Spice), guests will be happy to see you unpack these dairy-, soy-, and gluten-free snacks, which are tasty enough to enjoy on their own or with some dip or salsa. Local retailers, BettaBakes.com
Need an add-on to spice up your crackers or chips? This small-batch, Rhody-made salsa is superb, and not only comes in mild, medium, and hot, but also Apple, Grilled Pineapple, and Corn & Black Bean varieties. It’s so hard to pick – I suggest buying one of each. Local retailers, Kanes-Kitchen.com
This farm is known for its grass-fed beef and marvelous charcuterie selection, from Hot Soppressata Salami to Classic Italian Genoa Salami, with an array of savory cured meats both local and imported. Regulars rave about the high quality and superior taste. North Scituate, Facebook: Martinelli Meats & Charcuterie
Guests gushed so much about the catering at this in-demand wedding and event venue that Meadowbrook started offering their jams, spreads, and salads for purchase at farmers markets. Prepared fresh and scratch-made, you gotta try (and serve) their fig jam, pesto basil, and tzatziki. Charlestown, MeadowbrookInnRI.com
This traditional-recipe hummus is the perfect complement to any cracker or chip, offering a taste of the Mediterranean that pairs great with pita bread, olive tapenade, and your veggie of choice. Pick up a container to elevate any gathering – and watch for new spreads coming out soon. Local retailers, @nakedfigfoods
You may have tried their babka, but what about their soft pretzels? It’s a hot item at the farmers markets, made from their challah bread dough, and lightly salted. Get one for everyone at your picnic; it’s a simple yet delectable addition to any outdoor (or indoor) meal. East Providence, NAVAD.co
Stay classic and add some crunch to your al fresco meal with a container of Pickily Cukes, or add some zest with pickled beets, peppers, cauliflower, red onion, and more. Made from basic but high-quality ingredients (vinegar, sea salt, mustard seed, and honey), these flavorful bites are a subtle mix of tart and sweet notes. Local retailers, Pickily.com
Go for the coffee and bread or pastries but stick around for their small-batch cracker line, featuring four flavors (the Spicy Cheddar Rye is amazing!), and made with their house-milled flour. Serve them with a nice selection of cheeses and meats, and you’ll win at the picnic game. Providence, Cranston & Rumford,
SevenStarsBakery.com
This darling farm overlooking the ocean is in its 11th year of crafting whole milk yogurt (no pesticides, hormones, GMOs, or antibiotics) and cheeses, with eight different kinds, including Little Doughnut, a customer fave with a hint of lemon. Find them at East Bay farmers markets and shops. Little Compton,
SweetAndSaltyFarm.com
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