Forget the fancy restaurant bookings and overpriced prix fixe menus. This Valentine's Day, we're taking it back to basics with a proper local picnic. Think sunshine, good food, and zero stress about whether you need to dress up. Here are three Valentine's picnic setups using the best from our Orange producers — because nothing says "I love you" like supporting local while you're at it.
The Classic Cheese & Charcuterie Lover
Start with Spelt Sourdough from Racine Bakery or Ciabatta from Sugar Mill Cafe. Layer on meats from Cured Orange or Shaved Bacon from Trunkey Bacon & Pork for a BLT twist. Add cheese from Second Mouse Cheese Co, then load up on Cherry Tomatoes, Lebanese Cucumbers, and Red Capsicum from Martelli Orchards. Toss in some Australian Garlic for a punchy dip, pair it with Salad Mix, and grab a bottle of Mayfields Lemonade or Ginger Beer to keep things refreshing.
The Sweet Tooth Setup
This one's for the couple who'd rather skip savoury and go straight to dessert. Pick up a loaf from Racine Bakery, some local honey or jam, and pile on Strawberries and Blueberries from Martelli Orchards. Grab Little Big Dairy Co Full Cream Milk for a quick panna cotta, pack Organic Bananas for natural sweetness, and maybe a cheeky pastry from Sugar Mill Cafe. Wash it down with Mayfields Sparkle or their Passion soft drink. Simple, sweet, and very you.
The "We're Actually Hungry" Spread
Start with Fresh Free Range Eggs from Mullion Creek Farm — boil a few or prep a frittata with Broccoli, Mushrooms, Zucchini, and Onions from Martelli Orchards. Add Fresh Chicken Breast from Farmgate Butchery, or build a killer sandwich with Spelt Sourdough, Avocado, Salad Mix, and Tomato - Gourmet. Round it out with Narromine Oranges and Carrots for crunch. Bring Mayfields Sparkling Mineral Water to stay hydrated.
Pack Smart
Don't forget the essentials: a blanket, sharp knife, napkins, and maybe a speaker. Not sure what to pack? Grab one of YourMarket's Fruit Boxes or build your own spread from What's Fresh — it's all local, all delicious, and delivered straight to your door.
Valentine's Day doesn't need to be complicated. Good food, good company, and a bit of Orange sunshine? That's the real love story right there.