Chilled salad on the go

Granted, summer (or spring) picnic season may seem like a long way away, but it will be time to break out the blanket and head to the nearest patch of grass before you know it. Since the local weather here in San Francisco this week has been on the warm side, I think it's never too early to look ahead. Those winter doldrums aren't going to last forever, and when they melt, parks and beaches will be filled with hungry people, and I plan to be one of them.

Having a nice chilled meal outdoors on a clear, sunny day can be quite refreshing, and salad is no exception. This Salad on Ice set is a simple little contraption designed to keep contents cool while serving. Just place crushed or cubed ice inside of the included stand, and then set the bowl on top. Grates in the bowl let the cold to come in contact with the salad, while a lid helps to keep it all cool (and bug-free). Salad serving utensils attach to the rim and the whole set is dishwasher safe.

With the included compartment insert (room for four separate salads or ingredients), it would be no problem to please a crowd. As everybody has their individual favorites, your outdoors picnic is sure to be a cool affair. With or without the obligatory ants.