To-Die-For Tailgating, Pt. 1

With a hint of fall in the air (here’s hoping it stays!), I can’t help but get excited about football tailgating. Really, you don’t even need a game as an excuse to picnic outside—just throw together your favorite on-the-go foods and enjoy the lovely Lowcountry in all of its glory! Here are some ideas for what foods to bring to your next tailgate or picnic. 

For outdoor dining, I love a simple spread with lots of flavor. Ham biscuits are a southern staple; they’re hearty, and the ham keeps better than mayo-base salads. For easy at-home biscuits, toast up some Marshalls biscuits (available in the freezer section of most grocery stores), then add small slices of honey baked ham and your favorite mustard. If you want to go over the top, look for the Ultimate Ham Biscuits at Callies Charleston Biscuits.

For a side, try a cold rice salad, such as this "Fruited Rice Salad" from the all-things-culinary site Food 52. (I like to add a chopped avocado to the mix). Or, toss some cooked broccoli, feta, and red peppers into orzo pasta, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

For dessert, Sugar Bake Shop on Cannon Street is a good bet for satisfying your sweet tooth. Their lemon cake is my favorite! Visit www.sugarbake.com to order ahead!    

Next week, I'll get specific about packing a killer cooler, bar setups, and the little details that will make your tailgate the talk of the game!

Lead photo credit: Callies Charleston Biscuits