River Talk

Outdoor dining

By SANDY LONG
Posted 8/5/20

These days, there seems to be a “National Day” for just about everything, ranging from the righteous to the ridiculous. Many serve as motivators to celebrate something worthwhile, such as …

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River Talk

Outdoor dining

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These days, there seems to be a “National Day” for just about everything, ranging from the righteous to the ridiculous. Many serve as motivators to celebrate something worthwhile, such as National Eat Outside Day slated for August 31. But while the backyard barbecue is a fine start for gathering with family and friends, why not notch up your outdoor dining experiences this year?

In light of our current COVID-19 world, where eating inside restaurants isn’t always an option and where outside or open-air activities allow people to gather more safely, it’s a great time to get outside for some exercise after quarantining for so long.

In preparing for your picnic, load up on local goods by shopping at regional farmers’ markets for fresh, seasonal supplies. Or catch a curbside pickup from your favorite local eatery and enjoy it at one of the many scenic settings throughout the Upper Delaware River region.

Consider making a hike or boat picnic a part of your plan. Our region is blessed with an abundance of terrific trails and wonderful waterways throughout Pike and Wayne counties in Pennsylvania and in Sullivan County, New York. Visit the links below to explore the many options.

To get you started, I’ve provided an easy recipe for a rustic version of pizza that is especially satisfying after a good hike. You’ll need some cooking gear, which can be sourced at local outdoor outfitters. We use an MSR stove system and cookware with some basic utensils like sporks and a wooden spatula. Once you’ve got your gear, you’ll be motivated to eat outside more often. And always pack out what you pack in. Littering is for losers!

Rustic Trail Pizza

Water, oil and Bisquick (or a homemade version, which we mixed from scratch using flour, salt, baking powder and oil).

Sauce, shredded cheese and your favorite toppings

Seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic or oregano

Directions:

Mix the water and Bisquick (or your homemade mixture) in a bowl or pot to make the dough.

Coat the bottom of your cooking pot with oil so the dough doesn’t stick.

Pour the dough into the pot and spread into an even layer.

Pour the sauce over the dough and spread to cover it evenly.

Sprinkle cheese on top of the sauce.

Add your toppings and preferred seasonings.

Cover the pot with a lid and cook between five to seven minutes until the dough becomes “baked” to a golden brown.

Enjoy right out of the pot or scoop and serve.

‘Terrific trails and wonderful waterways’

www.pikepa.org/po/pikeoutdoors

www.sullivancountyhiker.org

www.trailkeeper.org

dining out, eating out, camping

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