Will Run 4 FOOD: European Vacation with the Perfect French Inspired Picnic

I have always said that the best way to explore a new place is by running thought it and eating as much as possible, an oxymoron I know, but I was fortunate enough to do both on our recent vacation to London and the South of France. We ran though Hyde Park past Kensington Palace into Knotting Hill. In France we ran up the winding roads overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, past Palaces and Mansions to the top where we found a large moat surrounding an old fort. These runs were a great way to see little hidden gems that we most likely would have missed. They also allowed us to taste all of the local flavors, yes Fish and Chips in London, and the daily baguette in France without feeling an ounce of guilt. We even followed up one run with a fantastic picnic on the sea, complete with wine, local olives, cheeses, cured meats, and of course a freshly baked crusty baguette.

France was full of flavor and local ingredients from the fresh muscles (moules and frites) to the classic salad nicoise. Nice was known for a unique dish called the Soca that is like a crepe, but made with chickpeas instead. We tried one topped with fresh spring mix, sun dried tomatoes, thinly sliced prosciutto, and a drizzle of thick, sweet balsamic vinegar, delicious! Around each corner was a boulangerie filled with wonderfully fresh made breads and the ever so delicious pain au chocolate (chocolate croissants). Everywhere you looked there was freshly made food that was just amazing.

Both Nice and London were full of markets and shops where you could stock up on freshly baked breads, local produce, meats, cheeses, and so much goodness to take home and cook with. We definitely came home with jars of local mustards, olive tapenades, and locally made onion marmalades that I can’t wait to cook with.