The great outdoors. There’s nothing quite like it. And when you combine that fresh air with a delicious spread of food, you’ve got yourself a perfect picnic! Whether you’re packing a basket for a family outing or meeting up with friends at the park, these 20 mouthwatering picnic recipes are sure to impress.
From classic chicken salad sandwiches to pesto pasta salads and everything in between, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of picnicking, sharing our favorite recipes for a memorable outdoor feast. So grab your blanket, fill up your basket, and get ready to indulge in some serious yumminess!
Classic Chicken Salad Sandwiches
A timeless favorite, this classic chicken salad sandwich recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, celery, onion, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
2. Mix until well combined, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Split the hamburger buns in half lengthwise.
4. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the chicken salad onto each bun half.
5. Top with lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your summer gatherings with these colorful and flavorful Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a cherry tomato half, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each toothpick.
3. Brush the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until the cheese is slightly melted and the tomatoes are tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and a pinch of sugar to create the glaze.
6. Brush the glaze over the grilled skewers and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Homemade Lemonade with Fresh Mint
This refreshing drink is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a burst of citrusy flavor. With the added twist of fresh mint, this homemade lemonade recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the chopped fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are!
Pesto Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salad, this recipe combines the creamy flavors of pesto with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, basil, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grilled Vegetable and Hummus Wraps
A flavorful and healthy wrap filled with grilled vegetables and creamy hummus, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped parsley, crumbled feta cheese, sliced avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the mixed vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Spread about 2 tablespoons of hummus on each tortilla.
6. Add the grilled vegetables on top of the hummus.
7. Add optional toppings if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppyseed Dressing
A refreshing twist on the classic spinach salad, this recipe combines sweet strawberries with savory spinach and a tangy poppyseed dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup poppyseeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves and sliced strawberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
3. Stir in poppyseeds until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the spinach mixture and toss to coat.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Deviled Eggs with a Spicy Twist
Elevate your deviled egg game with a kick of heat from this spicy twist recipe.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to desired level of spiciness)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mix together the yolks, mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time:
None needed! These deviled eggs are a quick snack or appetizer that’s ready in minutes.
Fresh Fruit Platter with Honey Yogurt Dip
Brighten up your gatherings with this colorful and refreshing fruit platter, perfectly paired with a sweet and tangy honey yogurt dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Assorted fresh fruits (such as strawberries, grapes, kiwi, pineapple, and banana)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and Greek yogurt until well combined.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the honey-yogurt mixture until smooth.
4. Arrange the fresh fruits on a large platter or serving dish.
5. Spoon the honey yogurt dip alongside the fruit.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep and assembly)
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Fresh Fruit Platter with Honey Yogurt Dip!
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad
A refreshing summer salad featuring crunchy noodles, savory sesame flavor, and a hint of Asian spices.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger until smooth.
3. Add the cooked noodles, scallions, and sesame seeds to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including cooking time)
Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with the earthy taste of black beans and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Herb Cheese and Crackers
A classic combination that’s perfect for a quick snack or appetizer, this garlic herb cheese is infused with fresh herbs and served with crunchy crackers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crackers (your choice of flavor and type)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the minced garlic and mix until well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped parsley and chives.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the garlic herb cheese with crackers.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Avocado and Shrimp Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on the classic wrap, this recipe combines creamy avocado, succulent shrimp, and crisp lettuce for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, cooked and chilled
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 whole wheat tortilla wraps
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado and chilled shrimp.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Divide the mixed greens among the four tortilla wraps.
4. Spoon the avocado-shrimp mixture on top of the greens.
5. Fold the bottom half of each wrap up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( preparation only)
Baked Lemon Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Brighten up your mealtime with these flavorful and aromatic baked drumsticks, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and arrange the drumsticks in a single layer.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser! Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella come together on toasted bread for a flavorful start to any meal.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Remove from oven and top each toasted bread slice with a spoonful of tomato mixture, followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Cucumber and Dill Soup
Beat the heat with this refreshing and light soup that combines the cooling properties of cucumber and the brightness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the cucumber, dill, yogurt, broth, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cold soup, so no cooking required.
Peanut Butter and Banana Roll-Ups
Peanut Butter and Banana Roll-Ups Recipe
These sweet treats are perfect for a quick snack or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 4 whole wheat tortillas (6-8 inches in diameter)
– Optional: chopped peanuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, spread about 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter onto each tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
2. Place a banana slice on one half of the tortilla, and place another half on top to create a “sandwich.”
3. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure to avoid squishing the filling.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. If desired, sprinkle chopped peanuts or shredded coconut on top for extra crunch.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are best served fresh, so enjoy within a few hours of assembly.
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
Elevate your summer gatherings with this flavorful and easy-to-make grilled corn recipe, infused with the bold flavors of chili lime butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, chili powder, and lime juice until well combined.
3. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred and tender.
4. During the last minute of grilling, spread the chili lime butter evenly onto each ear of corn.
5. Remove from grill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chili powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta
A delicious and savory breakfast or brunch option that’s easy to make and perfect for a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini muffin tin liners (about 24-30)
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cheddar cheese, spinach, feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the mini muffin tin liners.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious treat – these chocolate chip oatmeal cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sparkling Raspberry Iced Tea
A refreshing twist on traditional iced tea, this Sparkling Raspberry Iced Tea is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (4 cups) brewed black tea, cooled
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons sparkling water (such as soda water or seltzer)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled tea and fresh raspberries.
2. Stir in the granulated sugar until it’s fully dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in the sparkling water.
5. Serve the Sparkling Raspberry Iced Tea over ice cubes and garnish with additional fresh raspberries if desired.
Cooking Time: None – this recipe is quick and easy!
Summary
Get ready for a delightful outdoor feast with these 20 delicious picnic recipes! From classic chicken salad sandwiches to fresh fruit platters, there’s something for everyone. Try making caprese skewers with balsamic glaze, pesto pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, or grilled vegetable and hummus wraps. You can also indulge in strawberry spinach salad with poppyseed dressing, deviled eggs with a spicy twist, and much more! Whether you’re looking for sweet treats like chocolate chip oatmeal cookies or refreshing drinks like sparkling raspberry iced tea, this collection has got it all.
