A-tisket, a-tasket, a lovely picnic basket (part I)

With spring in full swing (and if full swing has yet to be reached in your neck of the woods, just hang tight—it's on the way) picnics are a practically mandatory pastime. And whether you're planning a romantic lakeside cuddle with your honey or a raucous romp in the park with friends, the same old chips, sandwiches, and cookies are so last year.

Over the next few weeks, we'll be bringing you the ideas, the recipes, and the style tips you need to make your springtime sojourn an affair to remember.

Since a picnic just isn't a picnic without some yummy munchables, we're kicking things off with a terrific bite-size sandwich that just might put your local deli to shame.

Roast Beef and Bleu Cheese Tea Sandwiches

• 1/3 cup crumbled bleu cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 6 slices whole wheat bread
• 6 slices white bread
• 1 bunch watercress
• 1/2 pound sliced roast beef

In a small bowl, stir together crumbled bleu cheese, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Set aside.

To make sandwiches, spread bleu cheese mayonnaise on bread slices. Add watercress and roast beef. Place another slice of bread on top. Cut into quarters and serve.

Stay tuned for more fabulous picnic ideas and get ready for some serious springtime skylarking!

(Source: food.com)