Instructions: Plan ahead and take only the equipment and food you will need, so there will be less stuff to pack and fewer leftovers to spoil.

Use a picnic basket or a strong tote. While wicker baskets are romantic and perhaps appropriate for cozy picnics for two, knapsacks are more practical for hiking picnics, and coolers are more appropriate for beach or lake picnics.

Pack a few extra plates, cups, knives and forks, etc. Consider washable plastic rather than disposable.

Bring lap-size cloth napkins, because paper products can get soggy.

Inexpensive dish towels make great picnic napkins.

Celebrate with vibrant-hued picnic gear from discount stores. Investing a little money in reusable and fun paraphernalia will encourage picnicking more often.

Bring along a ground cover or tablecloth. Its worth taking along at least one blanket for crawling children, a little nap and some people- or nature-watching.

Use adequate food containers. Sauce leaking from a bottle can ruin the day.

Stay away from breakable glass and china.

Pack most everything into shallow plastic storage containers. That way, after the meal, the containers can nest into one another for compact storage.

Though lugging a lot of liquid is weighty, bring plenty of beverages.

Everyone seems thirstier than usual when eating outdoors. Put your beverages in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes before you leave home to ensure they will stay nice and cold for a while.

Be sure you can get into and use everything you take. You may need a can opener, bottle opener, corkscrew, serving spoons, etc.

Dont forget the condiments.

Include comfort items such as insect repellent, sunscreen, allergy medication and pain reliever.

Take along cleanup supplies such as garbage bags (use one for garbage and one for dirty dishes), moist towelettes and paper towels. And its always a good idea to throw in a roll of toilet paper.

While sandwiches are classic no-cook picnic fare, they dont have to be boring.

Spread a tablespoon of honey mustard each on four slices of bread. Add sliced apples, alfalfa or bean sprouts and sliced extra-sharp cheddar cheese, and top with a second slice of bread.

Try feta, apple and pimiento spread in a bagel sandwich. Add spinach or sprouts for color; top it with grilled chicken for a complete meal. (which see)

Chickpea spread is excellent stuffed into or spread on pita bread. (which see)

Its also tasty on pumpernickel, alone or with your favorite sandwich ingredients.

If you would like to email yourself the recipe for later use, or share the recipe with your friends or family, enter the email addresses below and this recipe will be emailed to you and others as well.