The Motherlode July 2025

Elevate Your Summer Picnic: Sip, Savor, and Socialize in Style

by Kristin Gulitz of Hapa Homecooking

Step up your entertainment game with an elevated picnic to enjoy with friends and family. Adding some of these small touches will both impress your guests and create a memorable experience. Start by picking a beautiful location, if you opt for a vineyard or park, make sure they allow picnics. You can also set up a gorgeous spread in your backyard! I look for a location with picnic tables, shade, and an open area for kids to play. If you’re going out of your way to set up a picnic, why not make it “Instagramable?” My top tip for an elevated experience is to bring linen and a runner. And while you’re at it, throw in linen napkins, not only are they great for the environment, but they’re also fancy! If there isn’t a picnic table, bring a thick blanket and some cushions for comfort. The colors and fabric textures you select for the items above will help you achieve your desired vibe. Next up, let’s tackle the food. Say it with me, “focaccia sliders!” These mini sandwiches are an easy and tasty experience. Pick up a loaf of focaccia from your local bakery. I recommend Rosemary Sea Salt Focaccia from Black Market Bakers. You can customize the sliders however you like; they are beautiful and quick to make!

Focaccia Sliders. Photo Credit: Kristin Gulitz.

FOCACCIA SLIDERS

Ingredients:

1 loaf focaccia ½ cup pesto 8 ounces sliced mozzarella cheese 8 ounces prosciutto salt and pepper

Instructions: Slice your focaccia loaf lengthwise in half and toast it in the oven if you like. Spread the pesto on both halves. On one half, lay out your mozzarella, followed by prosciutto, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Place the other half of the bread on top of your stack and cut it into slider-size sandwiches. Pin the sliders together with a toothpick.

JULY 2025 | 79

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