Summer days call for delicious food enjoyed outdoors, and what better way to celebrate than with a backyard picnic? This collection of 15 easy and mouthwatering recipes will make your al fresco dining a breeze, offering everything from savory bites to sweet treats. Grab your blanket, gather some friends, and get ready to feast in the sunshine!
Grilled Vegetable Platter
A grilled vegetable platter is a simple and delightful way to celebrate the flavors of summer. Fresh veggies charred to perfection bring out their natural sweetness, making for a delicious addition to any picnic. This dish is not only tasty but also colorful, adding a vibrant touch to your outdoor feast.
With minimal prep and cooking time, creating this platter is a breeze. Just toss your favorite vegetables in olive oil, season them, and grill away. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and watch as they disappear from the table!
Ingredients
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 eggplant, sliced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables: Wash and slice all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the vegetables in a grill basket or directly on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are tender and have nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm or at room temperature.
Classic Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Classic chicken salad sandwiches are a delightful and easy choice for your backyard picnic. With tender chicken mixed in a creamy dressing and accented by crunchy veggies, each bite is fresh and satisfying. Not only are they simple to make, but they also offer a perfect balance of flavors that everyone will love.
This recipe allows for plenty of customization, so feel free to add in your favorite ingredients! Whether you prefer a touch of sweetness with grapes or a hint of crunch with nuts, this chicken salad is versatile and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of bread
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If you want a little sweetness, consider adding diced grapes or apples.
- On a slice of bread, layer a lettuce leaf and a generous scoop of the chicken salad mixture. Top with tomato slices if desired.
- Place another slice of bread on top and cut the sandwich in half for easy handling.
- Repeat for remaining sandwiches and serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze
Caprese skewers are a refreshing and delightful addition to your picnic spread. They combine the rich flavors of ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves, all drizzled with a sweet balsamic glaze. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also adds a vibrant touch to any gathering.
The combination of juicy tomatoes and soft mozzarella creates a delicious contrast, while the basil adds a burst of freshness. Plus, the balsamic glaze ties everything together with its tangy sweetness, making every bite truly memorable. These skewers are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer, and they can be made in just a few minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 pound fresh mozzarella balls
- 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
- 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (6-inch or 12-inch)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves. Drain the mozzarella balls.
- Assemble the Skewers: On each skewer, thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball. Repeat this pattern until the skewer is filled, leaving some space at the ends for easy handling.
- Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze: Once all the skewers are assembled, arrange them on a serving platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Enjoy your Caprese skewers immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving for a chilled treat.
Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing
Fruit salad is a refreshing and colorful addition to any picnic. This vibrant mix of fruits not only looks appealing but tastes delicious with a sweet and tangy citrus dressing. It’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for those last-minute picnic plans!
The combination of juicy berries, tropical fruits, and a zesty dressing brings a burst of flavors that everyone will love. It’s a light, healthy option that pairs well with a variety of picnic foods. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite fruits!
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries, halved
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup mango, diced
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1 cup kiwi, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: In a large bowl, combine strawberries, blueberries, mango, pineapple, and kiwi.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, orange juice, and lemon juice until well combined.
- Toss Together: Pour the citrus dressing over the fruit and gently toss to coat.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh mint leaves on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Mini Quiches for Easy Snacking
Mini quiches are a delightful addition to any picnic spread. They’re packed with flavor and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste. The flaky crust combined with creamy egg filling makes them an irresistible snack that pairs perfectly with fresh garden veggies or a light salad.
Not only are they delicious, but mini quiches are also super easy to prepare. You can whip them up in no time and they travel well, making them ideal for outdoor dining. Plus, they can be served warm or at room temperature, which means you can make them ahead of time without any fuss!
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
- 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, onions, etc.)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie crust and cut it into small circles to fit mini muffin tins. Press the circles into the tins to form little cups.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the cheese and diced vegetables to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture into each pie crust cup, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the egg is set and the tops are lightly golden.
- Let them cool slightly before removing from the muffin tins. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Zesty Potato Salad with Dill
Looking for a refreshing side dish that’ll brighten up any picnic? This zesty potato salad with dill is just the ticket! It combines tender potatoes with a burst of lemon and the fresh taste of dill, making it a delightful addition to your outdoor meals.
This recipe is simple to whip up and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Perfect for sunny days, it pairs well with grilled meats and makes for a satisfying vegetarian option too!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds small potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slices of lemon and additional dill for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled potatoes. Pour the dressing over and gently toss until well coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with lemon slices and additional dill if desired.
Homemade Pasta Salad with Veggies
Homemade pasta salad with veggies is a refreshing and colorful dish that’s perfect for a backyard picnic. It combines tender pasta with a variety of fresh vegetables, creating a delightful medley of textures and flavors in every bite. The best part? It’s simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings.
This pasta salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or swap out the dressing to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of your picnic spread, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumbers, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, bell pepper, olives, and onion.
- Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables and basil.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for an hour before serving for better flavor.
Savory Spinach and Feta Wraps
Savory Spinach and Feta Wraps are the perfect addition to your backyard picnic spread. These wraps combine fresh spinach with creamy feta cheese, creating a deliciously satisfying bite. The flavor is both tangy and refreshing, making them a hit among guests.
What’s great about these wraps is how easy they are to prepare. You can whip them up in no time, making them an excellent choice for busy picnic days. Plus, they’re easy to pack and enjoy on the go!
Ingredients
- 4 large spinach or herb tortillas
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine chopped spinach, feta cheese, roasted red peppers, and olives. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble the Wraps: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a portion of the filling evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Wrap It Up: Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly around the filling. Slice in half or into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve: Pack them in a container or serve them on a platter. Enjoy cold or at room temperature during your picnic!
Cheese and Charcuterie Board
Creating a cheese and charcuterie board is an easy and delightful way to elevate your backyard picnic. This dish offers a mix of flavors and textures that will please everyone, from creamy cheeses to savory meats and fresh fruits. It’s simple to assemble and invites creativity, making it a perfect choice for your gathering.
Your board can feature a variety of cheeses, cured meats, crackers, and seasonal fruits. The beauty of a charcuterie board lies in its versatility; you can pick and choose based on your favorites or what’s available. Just remember to balance flavors and include a mix of sweet, savory, and tangy elements for the best experience.
Ingredients
- 1 wheel of brie cheese
- 1 block of aged cheddar
- 1 log of goat cheese
- 4 ounces of salami
- 4 ounces of prosciutto
- 1 cup of assorted crackers
- 1 cup of fresh grapes
- 1 cup of mixed berries
- 1 small handful of cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup of honey
- Fresh herbs for garnish (like rosemary or thyme)
Instructions
- Prepare the Board: Start with a large wooden or marble board. Arrange the cheeses first, placing them at different spots.
- Add the Meats: Next, fold the salami and prosciutto and place them in between the cheeses.
- Include Crackers: Fill in the spaces with assorted crackers, layering them for visual appeal.
- Add Fruits: Scatter the grapes, mixed berries, and cherry tomatoes around the board for pops of color.
- Drizzle Honey: Pour honey into a small bowl and place it on the board for a sweet dip.
- Garnish: Finally, add fresh herbs for a touch of greenery and aroma.
Lemonade Sparkler with Fresh Mint
This refreshing Lemonade Sparkler with Fresh Mint is the perfect drink for a sunny backyard picnic! With its bright, zesty flavor and a hint of mint, it’s invigorating and incredibly easy to whip up. You’ll love the combination of tart lemonade and sparkling water, making each sip feel crisp and bubbly.
Simple to make, this drink requires just a few ingredients. It’s a delightful way to cool off on warm days and impress your guests. Whether for a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends, this lemonade sparkler will be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups sparkling water
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
- Thin lemon slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add Sparkling Water: Gradually mix in the sparkling water, stirring gently to combine without losing the fizz.
- Add Mint: Gently muddle the fresh mint leaves in a separate bowl to release their aroma. Add them to the lemonade mixture.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the lemonade sparkler over the ice. Garnish with thin lemon slices and additional mint leaves if desired.
Savory Muffins with Cheese and Herbs
These savory muffins with cheese and herbs are perfect for a backyard picnic. They are soft, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them a delicious addition to any outdoor meal. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine!
The combination of cheese and fresh herbs creates a delightful taste that pairs well with a variety of picnic foods. Whether you serve them warm or at room temperature, these muffins will surely impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, chives, or basil)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon or ham (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped herbs until evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, mix the milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. If using bacon or ham, fold it in at this point.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let them cool slightly before removing from the tin. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Pasta Primavera in a Jar
Pasta Primavera in a Jar is a colorful and vibrant dish that brings the flavors of fresh vegetables right to your picnic. It’s light, refreshing, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for outdoor dining. This recipe showcases seasonal veggies and pasta, all tossed in a zesty dressing, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Layered in a jar, this salad not only looks great but also stays fresh for hours. Ideal for a backyard picnic, it can be made ahead of time and is easy to transport. Just grab a fork and dig in!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (your choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let it cool.
- Chop the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, black olives, and red onion.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a jar, start with the cooked pasta, then layer in the vegetables and top with fresh basil.
- Add Dressing: Drizzle Italian dressing over the layered salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Seal and Store: Close the jar tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve. This salad can be made a day in advance for even better flavor!
No-Bake Dessert Bars
No-bake dessert bars are an irresistible treat that brings a burst of flavor without the fuss of baking. These colorful bars combine creamy layers with fresh fruits and a crunchy base, making them a delightful addition to any picnic.
The combination of sweet and tangy flavors keeps every bite exciting. Plus, they are simple to make, requiring just a bit of mixing and chilling time. Perfect for a sunny day, they will surely impress your friends and family!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups whipped topping
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup flavored gelatin mix
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch pan.
- Make the Cream Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping until well combined, then spread evenly over the crust.
- Prepare the Fruit Layer: In a separate bowl, dissolve the flavored gelatin mix in boiling water. Stir in the fresh strawberries and blueberries, then pour the mixture over the cream layer.
- Chill: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 3-4 hours or until set. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Chocolate-dipped strawberries are the perfect treat for your backyard picnic. They combine the sweet and juicy burst of fresh strawberries with a rich chocolate coating, creating a delightful contrast in flavors. Not only are these treats delicious, but they’re also simple to make, making them a favorite among both kids and adults.
These strawberries are fun to prepare and can be customized with various toppings, like sprinkles or crushed nuts. They are sure to impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to your picnic spread.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh strawberries
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (optional, for a glossy finish)
- White chocolate for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Strawberries: Wash the strawberries and dry them thoroughly with paper towels. Make sure they are completely dry to ensure the chocolate sticks properly.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Dip the Strawberries: Hold each strawberry by the stem and dip it into the melted chocolate, covering about two-thirds of the berry. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
- Set and Decorate: Place the dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, melt white chocolate and drizzle it over the dipped strawberries for a decorative touch.
- Chill: Refrigerate the strawberries for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set before serving.
Crispy Vegetable Chips
Looking for a crunchy, healthy snack? Crispy vegetable chips are just what you need! They offer a delightful mix of flavors and are super easy to whip up. Whether you use potatoes, beets, or kale, these chips are a great alternative to traditional snacks, perfect for munching at your backyard picnic.
These chips are not only tasty but also customizable. You can season them with your favorite spices, making them as simple or as gourmet as you want. Plus, they are gluten-free, making them a great option for everyone. Get ready to impress your friends with this easy recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cups of thinly sliced vegetables (potatoes, beets, carrots, zucchini, etc.)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the vegetable slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
- Spread the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crunchy vegetable chips!
