16 Tasty and Simple Picnic Foods for Your Outdoor Escape

Planning a picnic is all about enjoying good food in the great outdoors, but deciding what to pack can sometimes be a challenge. You want something easy to make, easy to carry, and of course, delicious. Whether you’re heading to the park, the beach, or just your backyard, having the right picnic foods can take the experience to the next level. Get ready to pack your basket with these crowd-pleasing options that will make your picnic a hit!

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers are a refreshing and colorful option perfect for a picnic. To make them, simply alternate cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves on skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. These skewers are easy to transport and can be served cold, making them ideal for an outdoor setting. The combination of flavors is a crowd-pleaser, offering a taste of Italy in each bite.

Chicken Caesar Wraps

Chicken Caesar wraps are a hearty and satisfying picnic food that combines the flavors of a classic Caesar salad with the convenience of a wrap. To prepare, grill or roast chicken breasts and slice them into strips. Toss the chicken with romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese, then wrap it all in a large tortilla. These wraps are easy to make ahead and are perfect for a quick, no-mess meal outdoors. They are sure to be a hit with both adults and kids alike.

Pasta Salad with Pesto

Pasta salad with pesto is a simple yet flavorful dish that holds up well at room temperature. Cook your favorite pasta, such as rotini or penne, and toss it with a homemade or store-bought pesto sauce. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and diced mozzarella for extra flavor and texture. This dish is easy to prepare in advance and keeps well in a cooler, making it perfect for a picnic. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer.

Mini Quiches

Mini quiches are a versatile and elegant picnic option that can be enjoyed warm or cold. To make them, whisk together eggs, milk, and your choice of fillings, such as spinach, bacon, and cheese. Pour the mixture into a muffin tin and bake until set. These bite-sized quiches are easy to pack and transport, making them ideal for an outdoor meal. They provide a satisfying, savory treat that’s both portable and delicious.

Fruit and Cheese Platter

A fruit and cheese platter is an easy, no-cook option that offers a balance of sweet and savory flavors. Arrange a variety of sliced fruits, such as grapes, strawberries, and apple slices, alongside an assortment of cheeses like cheddar, brie, and gouda. Add some crackers or breadsticks for a complete picnic snack. This platter is simple to assemble and can be tailored to suit your preferences. It’s a perfect way to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce with a touch of indulgence.

Vegetable and Hummus Cups

Vegetable and hummus cups are a healthy, convenient option for picnics. To prepare, spoon hummus into the bottom of small plastic cups, then stick in an assortment of cut vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. These individual servings are easy to eat and keep the vegetables crisp and fresh. This snack is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a great way to add a healthy touch to your outdoor meal.

Turkey and Avocado Sandwiches

Turkey and avocado sandwiches are a hearty and filling choice that’s perfect for a picnic. Start by layering sliced turkey, avocado, lettuce, and tomato between two slices of your favorite bread. Spread a bit of mayonnaise or mustard for extra flavor. These sandwiches can be made ahead of time and are easy to pack. They offer a satisfying blend of protein and healthy fats, making them both tasty and nutritious.

Mason Jar Salads

Mason jar salads are a fun and practical way to enjoy a fresh salad on the go. Start by layering the salad dressing at the bottom of a mason jar, followed by sturdy vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. Add layers of proteins like chicken or beans, and finish with greens like spinach or arugula on top. When you’re ready to eat, simply shake the jar to distribute the dressing. These salads are portable, customizable, and keep everything fresh until mealtime.

Greek Pasta Salad

Greek pasta salad is a zesty, colorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a picnic. Cook some pasta, like fusilli or farfalle, and mix it with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, red onion, and feta cheese. Toss everything in a lemon-oregano vinaigrette for a burst of Mediterranean flavor. This salad can be made ahead and tastes even better as the flavors meld together. It’s a refreshing, vibrant dish that’s sure to be a favorite.

Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce

Chicken skewers with peanut sauce are a flavorful and protein-packed option that’s easy to eat on the go. Marinate chicken breast pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, lime juice, and garlic, then thread them onto skewers. Grill or bake until cooked through and serve with a homemade or store-bought peanut sauce for dipping. These skewers are easy to handle and can be enjoyed hot or cold. The savory, nutty flavors make them a standout dish for any picnic.

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs are a classic picnic food that’s always a hit. To make them, hard-boil eggs, then cut them in half and remove the yolks. Mash the yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and a touch of vinegar, then spoon the mixture back into the egg whites. Sprinkle with paprika for a bit of color and flavor. These bite-sized treats are easy to transport and serve, making them perfect for an outdoor meal. They’re a timeless favorite that everyone loves.

Cold Fried Chicken

Cold fried chicken is a Southern classic that’s perfect for picnics. To make it, coat chicken pieces in seasoned flour and fry them until golden and crispy. Let the chicken cool completely before packing it up for your picnic. The crispy coating and tender meat are delicious even when cold, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. This hearty option is sure to satisfy and makes a great main course for your outdoor adventure.

Roasted Veggie and Couscous Salad

Roasted veggie and couscous salad is a nutritious and filling option for a picnic. Roast your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes, then toss them with cooked couscous. Add a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs for added flavor. This salad is easy to make ahead and holds up well in transport. It’s a wholesome, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed at room temperature.

Pineapple Chicken Salad

Pineapple chicken salad is a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for a picnic. Mix shredded chicken with diced pineapple, celery, and green onions, then toss with a light mayonnaise or yogurt dressing. Serve the salad on its own or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. This dish is refreshing and offers a tropical twist on the traditional chicken salad. It’s a light yet satisfying option that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Stuffed Mini Peppers

Stuffed mini peppers are a colorful and flavorful addition to any picnic. To prepare, slice mini bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Fill each pepper with a mixture of cream cheese, feta, and fresh herbs like dill or parsley. These bite-sized snacks are easy to transport and can be served cold, making them ideal for outdoor dining. The creamy filling pairs perfectly with the crisp sweetness of the peppers, creating a refreshing and satisfying treat.

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries

Chocolate-dipped strawberries are a sweet and elegant treat that’s perfect for ending a picnic on a high note. Melt some chocolate in a microwave or double boiler, then dip fresh strawberries into the chocolate. Let them cool on a parchment-lined tray until the chocolate hardens. These treats are easy to transport in a cooler and provide a delicious, indulgent finish to your meal. They’re a simple yet impressive way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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