PRODUCTS TO PERK UP YOUR PICNIC

To create a picnic to be proud of, without any hard work, simply add Merchant Gourmet’s yummy range of goodies to your summer shopping list. For a grab-and-go al fresco lunch, opt for Merchant Gourmet’s Ready to Eat range. From pouches of pre-cooked lentils to jars of Roquito® Peppers, these wholesome products can be used straight from the pack to deliver maximum taste with minimal effort. You can also instantly transform your dishes from the traditional to the tremendous with a drizzle of Balsamic syrup over your strawberries or a handful of Slow Roasted Tomatoes in your sandwiches. For those with a little longer to prepare their picnic, Merchant Gourmet’s grains and cereals are perfect for creating new, exciting textures and tastes to impress your fellow diners. With products such as Orzo (a rice-shaped pasta that cooks in just 6 minutes) and Giant Couscous, you’ll be able create summer salads with substance - salads that are as satisfying as they are yummy. Merchant Gourmet’s picnic-perfect products include: Slow Roasted Tomatoes: These delicious tomatoes can be added to a picnic hamper and used for a variety of sandwiches and salads. With all the flavour of a Sun Dried Tomato, but without any of the oil, Merchant Gourmet’s Slow Roasted Tomatoes make an ideal snack for those on the go. Balsamic Syrup: This dark, rich syrup delivers the crowning touch to both sweet and savoury dishes. Dip your bread in it, drizzle it over salads or use the nozzle to artfully squirt over strawberries and ice cream. It’s delicious! Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta is perfect for soups, salads and risotto style meals. Try making a fresh spring salad by mixing Orzo, asparagus, spring onions, olive oil and parmesan shavings. Giant Couscous: this Giant Couscous, also available in a Wholewheat variety, has been toasted in an open flame oven which allows the Couscous to keep its shape and al dente texture after you have cooked it. Roquito® Peppers: These sweet and fiery peppers can be stuffed with cream cheese for a finger-food treat. Alternatively, chop and add to salads and sandwiches to create a dish with kick. Merchant Gourmet products are sold in Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Waitrose, The Co-operative and many more supermarket chains. For stockist details or to order Merchant Gourmet products online visit www.merchant-gourmet.com Ends 21st April 2010 Issued on behalf of Merchant Gourmet by Public. For further information, samples or images please contact Rebecca Mann/ Liam Grady on 01302 730303 or email rebecca.mann@publicgroup.co.uk or liam.grady@publicgroup.co.uk Notes to Editors: • About Merchant Gourmet Merchant Gourmet was started by Mark Leatham in 1985, sparked by his passion for quality ingredients that are capable of transforming any meal. Today, the company supplies over 40 products to supermarkets up and down the country, from Porcini Mushrooms to Roquito® Peppers, all of which meet the company’s criteria for ease of use and outstanding taste. • Details for all of these products, exclusive recipes and further information about Merchant Gourmet can be found at www.merchant-gourmet.com