Autumn vineyard picnic!!

There’s nothing like an Autumn picnic.. The leaves are changing colors. The air is cooler…You can bring hot foods or cold foods AND you can pretty much get away WHILE looking stylish wearing dresses or tights….

This weekend we celebrated a friend’s birthday at a local vineyard.. Well, when I say local, it is about an hour and half away but sooo worth the drive….
Our destination was the Raffaldini Vineyards in Ronda, NC.

It was a very scenic drive to get to the vineyard. Acres upon acres of beautiful grapes just ripening on the vines.


Spreads, jams and vinegar for sale

Wine tasting room
Outdoor picnic area overlooking the vineyard

The Birthday girl and us !

I brought an All things Mediterranean” potato salad to the picnic.

1 cup of potato chunks boiled and cooled
1/2 cup of chickpeas cooked and drained
2 Tbsp ripe black olives sliced
1/4 cup of purple onion chopped fine
1 Tbsp chopped chives
1-2 Tbsp chopped green onions with stalks
1/3 cup of red grapes (without seeds) chopped
1/2 cup feta crumbles
1/4 cup yogurt (unflavored, non Greek)
1/4 cup of low fat mayo
2-4 Tbsp Olive oil

Salt and black pepper to taste
Paprika for garnish

Mix all the above! Chill or serve at room temperature!

and Pesto and Tapenade sandwiches!

Slice Ciabatta bread in two halves.
Spread homemade pesto and fresh mozzarella on one side.
and Fresh tapenade, sun dried tomatoes and baby spinach on the other.
Healthy drizzle of Olive oil and bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. 
Lay one half on top of the other half.
And Press firmly. 
Cut into desired size.
It was a great time at the picnic. A bit chilly at times due to the ongoing drizzle but very peaceful and relaxing.. What is your favorite picnic item to bring ?

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