Picnicking in Florida

After what felt like an extra long period of cold temperatures and then steady rain for several days, the balmy weather on Sunday, February 1, 2014 was most welcome for the crowds that attended the 20th Annual Sarasota Highland Games & Celtic Festival. Bagpipes, drums, dancing and athletic events occupied our attention, along with the colorful scarves, kilts, sashes and ties indicative of the Scottish clans represented on this day.

At lunchtime, I was thrilled to find one of the food booths serving Cornish Pasties. Not only were they the best I've ever tasted, but it brought back wonderful memories of years ago when I made them for family dinners, and most often, for picnics. It's an easy and tasty dish of Great Britain and Ireland origin for tin miners who took them down into the mines for lunch because they were easy to carry and eat, plus the filling of ground beef, chopped onions and potatoes kept warm wrapped in pastry.

I hadn't thought about Cornish Pasties for years and in fact, have no idea where my recipe is. But, when I got home yesterday, I went online and typed in Cornish Pasties recipes. Thankfully, a few recipes popped up and I will once again be able to create this tasty delicacy for future picnics.

Whatever part of the Country you are living in, keep this dish in mind. After all, picnicking weather will come along eventually, and you'll be ready with a dish that is sure to please everyone.