When it comes to outdoor gatherings, there’s nothing quite like a classic picnic. But sometimes, it can be tricky to come up with menu ideas that are both delicious and easy to transport. That’s why we’ve gathered 20 of our favorite picnic recipes to make your next outdoor gathering a success. From sandwiches to salads, skewers to dips, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of the great outdoors, featuring everything from classic egg salad sandwiches to sweet and spicy BBQ meatballs. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or a park picnic, we’ve got you covered with these easy and delicious recipes that are perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
Classic Egg Salad Sandwiches
A timeless favorite that’s both simple and satisfying, this classic egg salad sandwich is a staple for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and cooled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices white bread (or your preferred sandwich bread)
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the cooled eggs into quarters.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the egg quarters, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped fresh dill.
4. Lay the bread slices on a flat surface.
5. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the egg salad onto each slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top with lettuce leaves and tomato slices, if desired.
7. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the other bread slice on top.
Cooking Time: None! This classic egg salad sandwich is ready in no time.
Homemade Chicken Caesar Wraps
Elevate your wrap game with this simple recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, Caesar dressing, and crispy lettuce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– 1/2 cup crumbled romaine lettuce
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the diced chicken and Caesar dressing until well combined.
3. Lay a tortilla wrap on a flat surface and spread 1/4 cup of the chicken-Caesar mixture onto half of the wrap.
4. Top with crumbled romaine lettuce and shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
5. Fold the other half of the wrap over the filling to form a neat package.
6. Cook the wraps in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Fresh Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate the classic caprese salad to a new level by threading fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil onto skewers, then drizzling with a rich balsamic glaze.
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
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Thread a tomato half, a mozzarella round, and a basil leaf onto each skewer.
3. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the skewers and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is slightly melted and the tomatoes are tender.
6. While the skewers bake, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and a pinch of sugar in a small bowl.
7. Remove the skewers from the oven and drizzle with the balsamic glaze.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Crunchy Veggie Pinwheels with Cream Cheese
A simple yet flavorful snack that combines the crunch of pinwheels with the creaminess of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a delicious veggie-packed bundle.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of large flour tortillas
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1 cup shredded zucchini
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, carrots, zucchini, and parsley until well combined.
3. Lay out a tortilla on a flat surface and spread about 1/4 cup of the veggie mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll up the tortilla tightly but gently, applying even pressure to avoid tearing.
6. Place the pinwheel seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until tortillas are lightly browned and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Juicy Watermelon and Feta Salad
Reinvigorate your senses with this refreshing Watermelon and Feta Salad, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed watermelon (rind removed)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes and feta cheese.
2. Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the top.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice evenly over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served immediately, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Savory Pesto Pasta Salad
This recipe combines the flavors of pesto, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese to create a quick and easy pasta salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie, penne)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 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, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
3. Toss gently to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Meatballs
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Meatballs
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these sweet and spicy BBQ meatballs that will become a new favorite at your next gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup and BBQ sauce.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush with the sweet and spicy BBQ glaze.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A creamy, flavorful dip that’s perfect for parties or snacking with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
5. Serve hot with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Vegetable and Hummus Wraps
A flavorful and healthy snack or meal option that’s perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup hummus
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the bell peppers and zucchini with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. Spread a tablespoon of hummus on each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add a few slices of grilled vegetables on top of the hummus.
5. Sprinkle with feta cheese (if using).
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4 wraps
Tangy Lemon Garlic Potato Salad
This refreshing potato salad combines the brightness of lemon zest with the pungency of garlic, creating a tangy and flavorful side dish perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the diced potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the olive oil and whisk until smooth.
5. Toss the cooled potatoes with the lemon-garlic dressing until well coated.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mini Quiches with Bacon and Cheese
These bite-sized quiches are perfect for breakfast on-the-go, a quick snack or as an appetizer for a party. With crispy bacon and melted cheese, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut into 12 equal squares.
4. Place a spoonful of crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese in the center of each square.
5. Fold squares in half diagonally, pressing edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Refreshing Cucumber and Avocado Rolls
Beat the heat with these refreshing cucumber and avocado rolls! A perfect combination of cool, creamy, and crunchy, this recipe is sure to quench your thirst for something new.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed (dried seaweed sheets)
– Water for rolling
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumber into long, thin strips.
2. In a bowl, combine avocado, chopped mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface.
4. Place a few cucumber strips along the center of the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at each end.
5. Spread a thin layer of the avocado mixture over the cucumber strips.
6. Roll up the seaweed and filling tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! These rolls are best served immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Zesty Greek Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with the heartiness of orzo, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup chopped fresh tomatoes (such as cherry or grape)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked orzo, olives, feta cheese, and tomatoes to the bowl. Toss until well combined.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Crunchy Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing
This refreshing slaw combines the crunch of shredded vegetables with the creamy richness of peanut dressing, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, seeded and julienned
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and ginger until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( prep time: 5 minutes, chill time: 30 minutes)
Sweet Strawberry Spinach Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this sweet strawberry spinach salad combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with the earthy flavor of baby spinach leaves.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the baby spinach leaves.
2. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the spinach.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese (if using) and chopped nuts over the strawberries.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Savory Ham and Cheese Sliders
These bite-sized sliders are perfect for a quick snack or appetizer. Soft buns filled with salty ham, melted cheese, and fresh herbs will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of slider buns
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced cooked ham
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter the cut side of each bun.
3. Place a slice of cheese on each bun, followed by a few pieces of ham.
4. Top with a sprinkle of parsley and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are toasted.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Herbed Goat Cheese and Crackers
Enjoy a delightful and refreshing snack with this simple recipe, combining creamy goat cheese with the savory flavors of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz soft goat cheese (chèvre), crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Crackers (e.g., water crackers or wheat thins)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the crumbled goat cheese, parsley, chives, thyme, and garlic powder.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange the crackers on a serving plate or platter.
4. Spoon the herbed goat cheese mixture over the crackers.
5. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a simple assembly of ingredients.
Spicy Sriracha Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled eggs game with the spicy kick of Sriracha sauce! This recipe combines creamy egg yolks, zesty Sriracha, and crunchy chopped bacon for a flavor-packed appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks to a bowl.
2. Mash the yolks with a fork until smooth, then stir in mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Sriracha sauce until well combined.
3. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
4. Top each deviled egg with crumbled bacon and chopped chives (if using).
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required! These deviled eggs are ready in no time.
Fresh Mango Salsa with Tortilla Chips
Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh mango in this easy-to-make salsa, perfect for dipping tortilla chips or using as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 1 bag tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Fold in chopped cilantro.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled with tortilla chips.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
Decadent Chocolate Chip Cookies
Decadent Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Rich, chewy, and intensely chocolatey, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: 24-30 cookies
Summary
Get ready to delight your friends and family at your next outdoor gathering with these 20 easy picnic food recipes! From classic egg salad sandwiches to sweet strawberry spinach salads, there’s something for everyone. Satisfy your cravings with savory options like homemade chicken Caesar wraps, grilled vegetable and hummus wraps, and spicy BBQ meatballs. Or, go light with refreshing choices like fresh caprese skewers, crunchy veggie pinwheels, and zesty Greek orzo salad. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to be a hit at your next picnic!
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