As spring sunshine arrives in Britain, the traditional picnic, known as a ‘picky tea’, is regaining popularity. Modern British picnics have evolved, moving beyond simple sausage rolls to include sophisticated options like truffle-topped charcuterie and flavored crisps.

The Rise of the 'Picky Tea'

Research from M&S shows that 43% of Britons enjoy a ‘picky tea’ weekly during the summer months, preferring lighter meals in warmer weather. This has led to a wider variety of picnic choices, including unexpected additions like pickles and sardines.

Windsor's Picnic Ranking

Etiquette expert Laura Windsor suggests the most ‘tasteful’ picnic items should be ‘satisfying without leaving you sluggish’, favoring ‘European picks’ that are colorful, seasonal, and minimally processed. She has ranked popular ‘picky bits’ from ‘tasteful’ to ‘tacky’ to guide picnic planning.

Top Tier: Tasteful Choices

The ranking places smoked salmon, prosciutto, and fresh fruit at the top. Items like couscous, hummus, and breadsticks also fall into the ‘tasteful’ category. More substantial options such as pizza slices, ‘posh’ crisps, and various cheeses also make the list.

Items to Avoid: The 'Tacky' List

Windsor advises against including olives, due to the inconvenience of removing the stones. Raw vegetables like carrots and celery are also discouraged, described as ‘the social equivalent of sensible shoes’ and prone to wilting. Hard-boiled eggs are also not recommended because of potential ‘egg breath’ and a lack of elegance.

Heavy Foods to Skip

Heavier options like cream cheese, coleslaw, potato salad, and pesto are considered too rich and detract from the light, refreshing nature of a summer picnic. The ideal ‘picky tea’ should prioritize light, bright, and digestible flavors.

Presentation and Sophistication

Windsor emphasizes the importance of presentation and sophistication, suggesting a well-curated picnic should feel effortless and elegant. The guide offers a humorous yet insightful look at picnic etiquette, helping Britons create a stylish and enjoyable outdoor dining experience.