Now that summer’s firmly on its way, take advantage of the warm weather to get out and enjoy the west London parks with Carluccio’s new picnic hampers, which promise a ‘taste of Italy’ with a freshly-prepared three-course meal for two. Having sampled these delights, I can attest to their provenance. Generous portions are ideal for a lazy, drawn out afternoon – we ate half then feasted on leftovers later.
Containing the regional Italian dishes that are Carluccio’s speciality, from lemon and thyme focaccia or chicken supreme with parsley and pancetta to Ferreto pasta salad with oven-roasted vegetables and pesto, the hampers provide a generous spread of the best seasonal summer food for (£45). Starters include savoury tarts and olives and the finale of Italian biscuits and handmade strawberry tarts will leave your sweet tooth sated. With vegetarian options available and a crowd-pleasing individual children’s hamper (£10) as well as the classic version, no one needs to be left hungry.
The picnic hampers can be ordered from your nearest Carluccio’s with at least 24 hours’ notice, or you can let them surprise you on the day with a last-minute hamper containing the ‘chef’s choice’ of dishes. Their range of wines and drinks is also available to buy by the bottle to complete your al fresco escape in true Italian style.
