Did you know July is National Picnic Month? Shake out your favorite blanket, text a friend to meet you, and commence outside eating! We asked St. Peter Food Co-op Produce Manager Stephanie for her top five picnic recommendations from the Produce Department. Here’s what she had to say:

Grapes

So, we all agree that grapes are basically nature’s candy, right? Here’s our pro tip: freeze them! Nutritious, delicious, and fun to pop into your mouth on a sweltering summer day. Look for Red, Green, Candy Snap, and Sweet Sapphire varieties at the Co-op.

Cherries

If your picnic includes catching up with a friend you haven’t seen in a while, pick a snack that will keep your mouth busy while you listen to all of their updates on life. Cherries! Just watch out for those pits and don’t forget to rinse them off before you leave the house. The Co-op typically carries both Red & Rainier Cherries when they are in season.

Blueberries

Have you placed your order for direct-from-the-grower Michigan blueberries yet? They arrive in five pound boxes on July 21st—super fresh and perfect for freezing. Blueberries are are high in vitamins C, K, an E as well as dietary fiber and antioxidants.

Watermelon

The quintessential picnic snack! At the Co-op, we usually have whole watermelons as well as pre-cut chunks, spears, and halves. Pick your size based on the number of people attending your picnic, and then watch those smiles get sticky.

Fresh Tomatoes

Fruit can’t have all the picnic fun. Watch for local heirloom tomatoes at the Co-op mid-July—they are delightful! We usually have local Cherry and Vine Tomatoes on hand. Really, any variety of fresh tomato works with fresh mozzarella and balsamic glaze. Nom nom nom…

Stop by and see us at the St. Peter Food Co-op any day of the week between 7am-9pm. We’ve got everything you need for the perfect picnic.