The great outdoors. There’s nothing quite like it, especially when you’re surrounded by good food and even better company. When it comes to planning a picnic, the possibilities are endless – from classic sandwiches to colorful skewers, and even sweet treats to satisfy your sweet tooth. In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 delicious picnic recipes that are sure to impress at your next outdoor feast.
From savory dishes like Grilled Chicken and Avocado Wraps and Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta, to refreshing salads like Quinoa and Black Bean Salad and Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing, we’ve got you covered. And don’t even get us started on the sweet treats – from Homemade Hummus with Veggie Sticks to Lemon Blueberry Scones, there’s something for everyone.
So grab a blanket, pack a basket, and let’s dive into our top 20 picnic recipes that are sure to make your next outdoor gathering an unforgettable one!
Classic Egg Salad Sandwiches
A simple yet satisfying snack or lunch option that’s perfect for any time of day. This recipe makes a batch of creamy egg salad that’s easily sandwiched between your favorite bread and topped with crisp lettuce and tomato.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– Lettuce and tomato for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before assembling the sandwiches, toast the bread slices lightly.
5. Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the egg salad onto each slice of toasted bread.
6. Top with lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: None (just chill and assemble)
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Experience the flavors of Italy in a new and exciting way with these colorful Caprese skewers, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Perfect for a quick and easy appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Balsamic Glaze (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread a tomato half, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Brush both sides of the skewers with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, until cheese is melted and slightly charred.
5. Drizzle Balsamic Glaze over the skewers before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Avocado Wraps
A flavorful and healthy wrap recipe that combines the juiciness of grilled chicken with the creaminess of avocado, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and lime juice. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortilla over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble wraps by spreading avocado slices on the tortilla, followed by grilled chicken, red bell pepper slices, and any desired toppings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Salad with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Feta
This refreshing pasta salad combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the tanginess of feta cheese, and the simplicity of mixed greens. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the dressing.
5. Top with mixed greens and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This quinoa and black bean salad is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, black beans, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Strawberry Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of strawberries with the earthiness of spinach, topped with a crunchy poppy seed dressing. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 pint sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Poppy seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top of the salad.
5. Garnish with poppy seeds and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Homemade Hummus with Veggie Sticks
Get ready to dip into a deliciously healthy snack! This classic Middle Eastern dip is made with simple ingredients and requires minimal cooking time, making it perfect for a quick pick-me-up or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, cumin, or other spices to suit your taste
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
5. Serve with veggie sticks (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers) for a healthy and tasty snack.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey and Cranberry Pinwheels
Turkey and Cranberry Pinwheels Recipe
Add a twist to your snack game with these delicious Turkey and Cranberry Pinwheels! Made with soft flour tortillas, savory turkey breast, and sweet cranberries, these pinwheels are perfect for a quick lunch or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the turkey, cranberries, cream cheese, and honey until well combined.
2. Lay a tortilla flat on a work surface. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the turkey-cranberry mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
3. Roll the tortilla into a tight pinwheel shape. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
4. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on assembly)
Mediterranean Orzo Salad
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing salad, featuring toasted orzo, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, tomato mixture, feta cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and oregano. Toss to combine.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Peanut Butter and Banana Roll-Ups
Peanut Butter and Banana Roll-Ups Recipe Summary:
A classic combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet banana makes for a delicious and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Lay out a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Place a banana slice on one end of the parchment paper.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the peanut butter mixture onto the banana, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Sprinkle with rolled oats and salt.
6. Roll up the banana tightly but gently to form a compact roll-up.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! These roll-ups are ready to eat in seconds.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional chicken salad, this Greek-inspired recipe combines the tanginess of yogurt with the creaminess of feta cheese and the crunch of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, yogurt, feta cheese, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Mix until well combined and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Serve chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Garlic Herb Cheese and Crackers
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic herb cheese with the crunch of crackers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag of crackers (your choice of type and flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, parsley, garlic, and chives until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange crackers on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Spoon small amounts of the garlic herb cheese mixture onto each cracker.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is lightly browned and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Vegetable and Goat Cheese Tartines
Elevate your summer gatherings with these flavorful and visually stunning tartines featuring grilled vegetables and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of baguette, toasted
– 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Grill zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, toast baguette slices.
5. Assemble tartines by spreading a layer of goat cheese on each toasted slice, followed by grilled zucchini and red bell pepper pieces.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Scones
Lemon Blueberry Scones Recipe
A refreshing twist on classic scones, these Lemon Blueberry Scones combine the brightness of lemon zest with the sweetness of fresh blueberries. Perfect for a breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
5. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Gently fold in blueberries.
7. Turn dough onto floured surface and knead 2-3 times until cohesive.
8. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick.
9. Cut into 8 wedges and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
10. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cold Sesame Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad perfect for hot summer days, this Cold Sesame Noodle Salad combines the nutty taste of sesame with the comforting warmth of noodles. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. soba noodles
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp. sesame oil
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, sesame dressing, and chopped scallions. Toss to coat the noodles evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagels
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon with the creaminess of cream cheese, all on a toasted bagel. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 bagels
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Split the bagels in half and toast until lightly browned.
3. Spread a layer of cream cheese on each bagel half.
4. Top with flaked smoked salmon, chopped fresh dill, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Antipasto Skewers with Prosciutto and Mozzarella
Elevate your appetizer game with these easy-to-make skewers featuring prosciutto, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
– 6-8 slices of prosciutto
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Wooden skewers (about 10-12)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Alternate mozzarella rounds, prosciutto slices, and basil leaves on the skewers.
3. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is slightly melted and the prosciutto is crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the added texture of rolled oats and gooey chocolate chips. A simple recipe that yields a batch of delicious treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons 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. Whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
This vibrant fruit salad is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, making it a refreshing treat for any occasion. With the added zing of honey lime dressing, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, grapes, kiwi, pineapple)
– 1/4 cup honey
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the fresh fruit into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the honey over low heat until it’s warm and runny.
3. Remove the honey from the heat and stir in the lime and lemon juices.
4. Pour the honey-lime dressing over the fruit and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt if desired.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, ready in just a few minutes.
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Cheese
These bite-sized quiches are perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or even as an appetizer. With the combination of creamy cheese, nutty spinach, and flaky pastry, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 package mini puff pastry cups (about 24-30 pieces)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a mini puff pastry cup on a flat surface. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of spinach leaves into each cup.
4. Pour about 1/4 teaspoon of the egg mixture over the spinach.
5. Sprinkle about 1/4 teaspoon of cheddar cheese and 1/8 teaspoon of Parmesan cheese over the egg mixture.
6. Place another mini puff pastry cup on top of the filling to form a “sandwich.”
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a picnic to remember! This article brings together 20 delicious recipes perfect for your next outdoor feast. From classic sandwiches to fresh fruit salads, there’s something for everyone. Try making egg salad sandwiches, caprese skewers with balsamic glaze, or quinoa and black bean salad. Or, indulge in sweet treats like lemon blueberry scones or chocolate chip oatmeal cookies. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a satisfying meal, these recipes are sure to please.
