Corporate Picnic Perfection: Planning Tips and Delicious Menu Ideas

Planning a corporate picnic is a beautiful way to foster team spirit, celebrate successes, and enjoy the great outdoors. 

To ensure your event is a hit, here are some planning tips and delicious menu ideas that cater to various tastes and dietary needs.

Gourmet BBQ: Elevating the Picnic Experience

A BBQ is a picnic classic, but why not elevate it to gourmet status? 

Consider offering a selection of premium meats, such as smoked ribs, wagyu burgers, arstinal sausages, or lamb chops. For a genuinely Canadian twist, add some locally sourced meats, like bison burgers or elk sausages.

Pro Tip: Marinate your meats the night before to enhance their flavour and tenderness. Offer a variety of sauces and condiments, from classic BBQ sauce to spicy aioli and tangy mustard.

Keeping it Cool and Classic with Packed Picnic Sandwiches

Picnic sandwiches are perfect for a corporate event—they’re easy to handle, versatile, and can be made to suit every taste. 

Here are some menu ideas to keep your sandwich offerings cool and classic:

• Muffuletta: Layers of turkey, prosciutto, spicy Italian salami, mozzarella, lettuce, tomato, and Kiss the Cook’s Muffuletta olive relish.
• Gourmet Veggie Delight: On a multigrain roll, grilled seasonal vegetables, hummus, and mixed greens. Perfect for vegan or vegetarians. 
• Egg Salad: Just like mom used to make it with lots of Hellman’s mayo, fresh dill, crisp lettuce and dill pickle.
• Chicken Caesar Wrap: Grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan, and creamy Caesar dressing wrapped in a tortilla. We like adding sundried tomato for a pop of salty goodness. 

Pro Tip: Pack sandwiches in individual paper wraps or biodegradable containers to keep them fresh and easy to distribute.

 Planning for All Diets: Vegetarian, Halal, and More

Inclusivity is vital to a successful corporate picnic. Make sure you cater to all dietary preferences and restrictions:

• Vegetarian & Vegan: Offer a variety of veggie burgers, grilled portobello mushrooms, and vegetable skewers. Ensure there are plenty of cheese and non-dairy options.
• Halal: Source halal-certified meats and clearly label them.  All of our beef and chicken is halal.
• Gluten-Free: Sandwiches and burgers can be made with gluten-free buns and bread. Side dishes like salad and fresh fruit can also be offered. We have an amazing selection of vegan & gluten-free desserts. 

Pro Tip: Clearly label all dishes to indicate if they are vegetarian, halal, gluten-free, or contain allergens. This makes it easier for everyone to enjoy the meal without worry.                                                                                                           

Don’t forget the sides – Starting with Salads

No picnic is complete without a selection of fresh, flavorful salads. 

Here are a few ideas to please every palate:

• Classic Potato Salad: Creamy and comforting with a touch of mustard.
• Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese with a lemon-oregano dressing.
• Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option with quinoa, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a lime-cilantro dressing.
• Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Pro Tip: To keep salads cool, place their serving bowls on a bed of ice. This not only maintains freshness but also ensures food safety.

Final Tips for a Perfect Corporate Picnic

1. Venue Selection: Choose a location with plenty of shade, seating, and restroom facilities. Parks with picnic tables, shelters, and BBQ pits are ideal.
2. Entertainment: Plan fun activities like team-building games, a tug-of-war, or a friendly sports match. Consider hiring a DJ or setting up a playlist to keep the atmosphere lively.
3. Comfort: Provide plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Renting a tent or canopy can provide much-needed shade on a hot day.
4. Waste Management: Ensure there are enough trash bins and recycling stations. Encourage guests to use them to keep the venue clean.

Considering these tips and delicious menu ideas, your corporate picnic will be a delightful and memorable event for everyone involved. 

Happy planning!