For lovers of his weekly NY Times Wednesday Food section column, The Minimalist, the article that follows is likely not new. For those of you who are merely fans of his many inspired books including “How to Cook Everything” and “Food Matters”, his weekly column is very practical and invigorating must read (at least for me).

As a packrat, I clip and save a lot, and file what I clip by season and topic. No, I am not really as organized as both you (and I) would like to think, but I would otherwise not know where to find some items I want as perpetual references. And Mark’s stuff often ends up in those keeper files.

With the weather warming up and picnic (and grilling) season not far off, it seemed right to open up the files and see what I could find. Some articles I have put aside for me, others I have clipped and copied for friends but this one, 101 Fast Recipes for Inspired Picnics, is more than apropos to put in a blog where it can be shared and virally spread as we all need quick, easy and tasty treats for dining al fresco. This piece came out July 2^nd of last year but I put it aside as being a great go to resource for many years to come. From a tasty summer combo of tomatoes and peaches to a yummy cold peanut noodles, there are undeniably dozens of ideas that will resonate with you and bring it home to your benefit and those whom you share a picnic blanket and basket with.

Wine wise, picnics to me crave three basic styles of vino- 1) Bubbly (from the easy drinking Cava (Spain) and Prosecco or Asti Spumante (Italy) to the slightly more up market Champagne (usually a tasty Brut non-vintage) or sparkling wine from California), 2) Dry rosé (from just about anywhere) and 3) crisp vibrant whites (Spanish Albariño or Txacoli, Portuguese Vinho Verde or Arinto, New Zealand or American Sauvignon Blanc, Australian SSB (Semillon Sauvignon Blanc blends) and well made Pinot Grigio from Italy). These groups of wines share the commonality of being refreshing, easy drinks that can pair across the range and multitude of dishes such as those offered up by Mr. Bittman and do so with flair. While we may be warming up in the Bay Area, you may (depending where you are) still be a bit away. At least now you are armed for that first wave of really warm sunshine.

Anything you really love wine wise with al fresco fare?