A Campfire Dinner Menu

Inspired by the Five Elements, this fun, balanced menu is perfect for enjoying the outdoors and the fresh taste of summer.  With a bit of advance planning and prep, you need little more than a fire ring and camping stove to pull off epicurean dinners in the woods, Silicon Valley style.

First, some quick tips to prep for camping:

1. Pack your cooler wisely/; Start with a layer of ice at the bottom, placing raw meats directly on the ice. 

2. Wash, pre-chop and bag all fruits and vegetables. Ideally, you won't have to bust out a knife and cutting board for any meals. 

3. Bring along only as much of everything as you'll need, packing foos in resealable bags or leakproof containers. Store liquids upright to prevent spills. 

4. Meats should either be pre-marinated and stored in resealable plastic bags, or require a simple sprinkle of salt and pepper, a pre-mixed spice rub or a bottled sauce to serve alongside. 

The Menu

Hibiscus Agave Agua Fresca (Element: water)
Cedar Plank Salmon (Elements: fire and wood)
Farro and Stone Fruit Salad (Element: earth)
Skillet Grape and Berry Grunt (Element: metal)