The weather has been so amazing lately! I am in love! It has me wanting to spend all my time outside, which is something I’m sure you could’ve guessed from my recent post on Sporty Date Ideas lol So today I’m going to talk to you all about picnic food!
The ideal picnic foods are ones that can be easily packed, eaten with your hands (or minimal utensils), and are fine at room temperature (i.e. nothing that melts or should be served hot). I’ve compiled a list of my favorites that I hope you will enjoy as well!
Our goal right now is to bring a small packed picnic basket with us every time we go to the park, which right now is a few times a week. Both our kids are young and not in school anymore, so we have way more park time available to us.
For some reason, packing a picnic basket always feels like such a big chore that requires so much effort when in reality, it doesn’t have to be that way at all. Normally, we always grab a couple quick snacks and some water when we go to the park because it seems easier, but actually packing a picnic basket with full meals can be just as easy.
Okay first off let’s cover the essentials.
Sandwiches!
Chicken Stuffed French Bread from Life in the Lofthouse
This looks unbelievably easy, but also sounds so yummy! Just check out those ingredients! We’ve actually tried this one out and it’s pretty good. Although, we had so much sandwich leftover so next time we might just put this on small rolls instead of the large French bread in the picture.
Chicken Bacon Avocado Sandwich with Secret Sauce from Natasha’s Kitchen
I don’t know if you’re familiar with Kneader’s at all, but they have this delicious sauce they put on their sandwiches that you need to try! I’m not even a huge sandwich fan & I love it. Thankfully, Natasha’s Kitchen has come up with a great copycat version in her Chicken Bacon Avocado Sandwich!
Perfect Pulled Pork from Kevin & Amanda
Everyone’s different, I personally don’t mind a room temp pulled pork sandwich, so I would take this on a picnic. Plus, pork shoulder is literally so cheap compared to other meats at the grocery store! If you want a leaner meal, I think pork loin is probably your best cut to use.
Bacon Sriracha Potato Salad from Peas & Crayons
I actually made this one for my son’s first birthday party last summer & I loved it! I didn’t have any bacon though (I subbed hard boiled eggs), so I imagine with all the ingredients it’s even better. My recommendation is make this the same day as your picnic, I made this the day before our party & just like with most foods prepped ahead, some of the flavor becomes more mild as it absorbs into the food. Still delicious, just 10 times more amazing the first day =)
Pomodoro Fresco Pasta Salad from The Parsley Thief
I’m a big fan of balsamic vinegar (and pasta and tomatoes lol) so this really looks like something I will be making very shortly!
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad from Spicy Southern Kitchen
This pasta salad also looks like a winner!
Salted Brown Butter Vanilla Bean Crispy Treats from Sweet Salty Tart
I love the idea of these “grown up” rice crispy treats! They look delicious! Plus they follow the picnic basket dessert rule–they don’t melt.
Chocolate Filled Strawberries from Lily Shop
If you’re looking for something a little more decadent, possibly more romantic? Try these chocolate filled strawberries! It’s a great “picnic hack” so that you can have chocolate strawberries without having to worry about them melting all over your fingers!
Banana Fritters from RACQ Living
I’ve included this recipe before in my best foods for tailgating post, but seriously how delicious?!
Aside from these delicious foods, I would probably include some fresh fruits & possibly some potato chips.
Speaking of fruits, have you tried my Marshmallow Cream Cheese Fruit Dip? It was a hit at my son’s birthday & is so easy to make!
For drinks, we take things easy with some bottled water & Capri Sun pouches =) Don’t forget to pack a blanket and plenty of napkins!! Have fun!
Side Note: Have you seen this hack for repelling flies from Making Lemonade? I can’t wait to try it! I just want to know if plastic cups work as well… Anyone know?
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