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Packing the Perfect Picnic

Recipe Ideas and More for Packing the Perfect Picnic

Summer isn't over yet!  There is still plenty of time to enjoy a picnic in a park or by the lake. Keep in mind that some foods travel better than others. Ideal picnic foods are easy to prep, pack, and serve! Finger foods or those eaten out of hand like fried or barbecued chicken, deviled eggs, sandwiches and wraps are some of the most popular. Cheeses, salads, fresh fruits and veggies are also easy to carry and serve! Read our suggestions for what to pack, eat and drink for your late summer picnics.

Supplies 

  • Cooler
  • Ice and/or ice packs
  • Disposable wet wipes 
  • Paper towels
  • Trash bags 
  • Corkscrew
  • Bottle opener
  • Reusable or disposable plates, eating/serving utensils, napkins and cups
  • Small cutting board and folding knife
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Trash bags

Apps and Snacks

Select salads and sides that hold up well. While potato and macaroni/pasta salads have long been picnic favorites, there are plenty of other options, and some salads can serve as the main fare. Check out those made with grains, chickpeas, dry beans, veggies like broccoli, beans, cauliflower, tomato and cucumber as well as many fruits.

Sandwiches, Wraps, and More

What could be easier to take along? Choose from an endless variety of sandwich combos (veggies, meats, cheeses, nut spreads, and egg, chicken and tuna salads) served on grain breads, focaccia, brioche rolls, croissants, etc. or wrapped up using assorted tortillas or lettuce leaves. Topping with creative spreads can elevate the sandwich to the next level. These might include guacamole, pesto, hummus, fruit jam or jelly, bacon jam, chipotle or cranberry mayo, aioli, herb cream cheese, or honey mustard.


Your favorite supermarket can also be a source of inspiration with many offering a wide array of prepared foods that are picnic ready i.e. fried or barbecued chicken, subs, even sushi.

Salads and Other Sides

Select salads and sides that hold up well. While potato and macaroni/pasta salads have long been picnic favorites, there are plenty of other options, and some salads can serve as the main fare. Check out those made with grains, chickpeas, dry beans, veggies like broccoli, beans, cauliflower, tomato and cucumber as well as many fruits.

Beverages



Don't forget about your picnic sips! It's the summer of seltzers so check out our Sip Into Summer page for a variety of seltzers that would be perfect to crack open on the picnic blanket. Or whip up a batch of mocktails that would accompany any of these picnic recipes!

Sweet Treats

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