In Provence, apricot season is less a calendar event and more a gentle takeover, market stalls spilling over, jam bubbling on stovetops, and the air itself turning sweet and floral. Every summer has a taste, and for me, it’s that first bite of a perfectly ripe apricot: tart, honeyed, and warm from the sun.

1. The Recipe: Chilled Apricot & Thyme Tart

• 6-8 ripe apricots, halved

• 1 sheet puff pastry

• 2 tbsp honey

• Fresh thyme sprigs

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Pinch of flaky salt

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Lay out puff pastry on a baking tray, arrange apricot halves, drizzle with honey, scatter thyme and lemon zest.

3. Bake 20-25 min, until golden.

4. Sprinkle with salt and let cool slightly before serving.

2. Culinary Culture & History

Spotlight: The Origin Story of Summer Picnics (and Why the French Do It Best)

A picnic isn’t just about food, it’s literally a ritual. In France, the art of the pique-nique transforms even a simple meal into something memorable. Picture a blanket in a sunny park, the smell of fresh bread and cheese, a little bottle of wine tucked in the basket. The French have made eating outdoors feel easy, joyful, and just a bit magical.

The tradition dates back to the 17th century, if I believe what I found online, but it truly blossomed in the 19th century, when public parks became everyone’s playground. Suddenly, picnics weren’t just for royals at Versailles, but for anyone craving good food and good company in the open air.

What sets the French picnic apart? It’s all about savoring, taking time to enjoy the moment, the flavors, and the people around you. Whether on the banks of the Seine or in your local garden, a picnic is really just an excuse to press pause and soak up a little more life.

3. Shopping List of the Week

• Fresh apricots

• Puff pastry

• Honey

• Thyme

• Lemon

• Baguette (bien blanche if you can)

• Cheese

• Cherry tomatoes

• Olives

• Dark chocolate (trust me on this one)

Picnic blanket optional, but highly recommended.

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