Meals on Wheels

Now that we've moved to the country in western Massachusetts, we continue our ritual eating outdoors whenever we can. But here our dining spot is the hill across the street, the field along the bike path, a local swimming hole, or just our backyard. No matter where we picnic, the rules are the same: we pack little besides a good meal.

When planning the menu, I don't make the food too elaborate. After all, fresh air has a way of making even the simplest foods taste good. I keep to straightforward but creative dishes that transport well, such as wrap sandwiches and homemade granola bars. Whenever possible, I make cooking part of the adventure, grilling chicken on the public grill or toasting s'mores over the backyard barbecue.

To round out this collections of free-wheeling recipes, we included cookout recipes and menu choices for your next tailgate party.