Here are 10 easy-to-make picnic recipes to try this summer. These include a creamy pasta salad, BLT wraps, fruit skewers with yogurt dip, grilled chicken kabobs, Caprese salad skewers, watermelon feta salad, hummus and pita plate, BBQ pulled pork sandwiches and a s’mores dip for dessert. You can customize these recipes to your own taste preferences and several are suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Most can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready for your picnic.
Heading 1: 10 Delicious and Easy-to-Make Picnic Recipes to Try This Summer
Heading 2: Creamy Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is always a hit at picnics, and this creamy version is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Cook your favorite pasta, and then mix in some diced veggies like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. For the dressing, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and a dash of vinegar. Add in some herbs like parsley and chives for extra flavor.
Heading 2: BLT Wraps
These BLT wraps are a great option for those looking for something quick and easy to make. Simply cook some bacon, and then wrap it up with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise in a tortilla. You can also add some avocado or cheese for extra flavor.
Heading 2: Fruit Skewers with Yogurt Dip
Fruit skewers are a healthy and refreshing option for a summer picnic. Simply skewer your favorite fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple. For the dip, mix some vanilla yogurt with honey and cinnamon for a sweet and creamy sauce.
Heading 2: Grilled Chicken Kabobs
Grilling is a staple of summer, and these chicken kabobs are a perfect way to mix up your picnic menu. Cut up some chicken breasts and marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs like rosemary and thyme. Thread the chicken onto skewers with some veggies like bell peppers and onions, and grill until cooked through.
Heading 2: Caprese Salad Skewers
Caprese salad skewers are a fun and easy appetizer to make. Simply skewer cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. This is a great option for those who want to keep their picnic menu light and fresh.
Heading 2: Watermelon Feta Salad
Watermelon and feta are an unexpected but delicious combination. Cut up some watermelon and feta cheese, and mix with some mint and arugula. Add in some balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy dressing.
Heading 2: Hummus and Pita Plate
For a simple but satisfying option, bring a plate of hummus and pita to your picnic. Make your own hummus by blending together chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice. Serve with some fresh pita bread or veggies like carrots and cucumber.
Heading 2: BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Pulled pork sandwiches are a hearty and delicious option for those who want something more substantial at their picnic. Slow-cook some pork shoulder in a BBQ sauce until it’s tender and falling apart. Serve on buns with some coleslaw for a classic summertime meal.
Heading 2: S’mores Dip
No picnic would be complete without a sweet treat, and this s’mores dip is sure to be a hit. Melt some chocolate and marshmallows together, and serve with graham crackers for dipping. This is a fun and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of s’mores without having to build a fire.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make these recipes ahead of time?
A: Yes! Most of these recipes can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to pack them up for your picnic.
Q: Can I customize these recipes to my own taste preferences?
A: Absolutely! These recipes are just a jumping-off point – feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make them your own.
Q: Are these recipes suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
A: Some of these recipes are vegetarian and vegan-friendly, like the pasta salad and fruit skewers. For those who eat meat, options like the chicken kabobs and pulled pork sandwiches would not be suitable. However, you can always customize the recipes to make them vegetarian or vegan-friendly by omitting the meat or substituting with a plant-based protein.