HOW TO PACK THE PERFECT PICNIC

It's a great time to get out in the sunshine and celebrate everything our local communities has to offer from homegrown heroes to the local farmers.

The Wallington's Pantry is the ideal place to go to buy the perfect picnic ingredients and enjoy the day out on the Bellarine. Not only will you be helping support your local home growers and supplies but you will also be enjoying some of the most delicious treats that Geelong and the Bellarine have to offer.

We have scanned the shelves and collated the perfect charcuterie board of the most wonderful treats and fresh local produce for the perfect afternoon by the beach, at the Waterfront or even in your own backyard.

The Chips & Crackers

Any grazing plate or charcuterie board needs a solid foundation of chips or crackers. Cornitos Nacho Crisps are the perfect vehicle of flavour. These gluten-free and vegetarian treats will complement any dips that you bring to the table. The best part is that every flavour of Cornito's Nacho Chrips are both Cholesterol free and include no GMO's so they are the guilt-free alternative for that signature crunch.

The Chutney & Relishes

The best part of the classic backyard BBQ is the sauces. It's traditional to use tomato sauce on your snags and burgers, but why not try something a little fancy for your cheeseboard. Beerenberg offers an extensive range of chutney, relishes and sauces. We would personally recommend giving the Australian corn relish a try. It makes the perfect dip if you mix it with some cream cheese.

The Cheese

Arguably the most important part of any charcuterie board is the cheese. The Wallington's Pantry has you covered with the best locally sourced cheeses from across Victoria. Meredith Dairy would be our number one recommendation as their marinated goat cheese is unlike anything else on the market. Ideally, you would like to place four different varieties on a board so we also stock a wonderful Warrnambool Vintage cheddar and True Organic's Double Brie.

The Meat

The next staple for this board would be the cured meats. Starting with the delectable sliced prosciutto from Fabbris. The melt in your mouth flavours mixed with your choice of cheese or relish topping is a delight. You could also add more slices of Jamon from Costa Brava.

The Dips

The Whole Kitchen produces some wonderful vegan-friendly and gluten-free dips that are just delightful. From hummus to beetroot, they have an option for every style of cheeseboard. The Whole Kitchen also offers Gluten-Free and Vegan options so everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.

The Candles

Taking that loved one on a romantic picnic? why not set the mood with a little candlelight as the sun goes down. York Street Candle Co make for the perfect up-cycle option that suits any set-up. These candles are set in old beet bottles, so they have a sturdy base for sitting on the grass or a picnic table. With scents such as Australian Bush, Lemongrass and Espresso.

The Drinks

A staple part of any picnic by the water is the drinks. The Curious Cabinet have a beautiful range of syrups that would create the best cocktails and mocktails around. You can create a sparking Rhubarb Elixir by mixing it in with soda water, or for something a little spicier, you can mix the Mandarin Shrub Syrup with White rum and soda water to create a refreshing Mandarin Mojito. You can find these and many more recipes on their website.