What should I prepare for a picnic?

Going on a picnic is especially perfect when the sun is out and it is bright outside. Good thing that summer is just around the corner! A picnic is one good way of bonding with your friends and family while eating some good food! But before going on one, you should already prepare and plan out the things to bring and food to make.

One should not forget some fresh fruits and vegetables. They are low calories and can get you pretty filled in no time. Fruits that are refreshing and perfect for summertime such as apples, strawberries, watermelons, and such are perfect. You should also pack some healthy proteins as a main dish such as chicken or tofu. Whip up a garden salad as well but do not mix your dressings yet.

Prepping and packing your food should also be greatly considered since some foods will spoil in just a few hours. Remember to always bring ice packs, cold boxes, or a cooler to foods that are usually stored in the fridge such as meat, dairy products, fish, and more. You should also put your beverages in a separate cooler from any perishable food. Also, remember to wash your fresh fruits beforehand because you most likely won’t find a tap of water on your picnic. Bringing plastic or paper cups instead of bottles is also a good way to lessen the weight of your baggage and to free up more space. But you should also remember to bring your own trash bags for your food waste and disposable items.

What food do you bring on a picnic?

There are tons of options you can bring on your family picnic day but the question is which ones are actually safe for a picnic? Which one will weigh less on your picnic basket? Which food will make the least mess to clean up?

If you are curious about which specific food to bring on your picnic day, then just think of a proper whole day meal. This should include the main meal, salad and sides, some snacks and sweets, and refreshing beverages. Remember that your main dish should be easily divided. This can be some delicious chicken, ham, pie, and more. For snacks, you can always have sandwiches and other finger foods. You should also store your beverages in a cooler or bring a pack of ice. Some family-friendly options for drinks are some iced tea, lemonade, or pre-made fruit juices.

Here are some more ideas on what you can put inside your picnic basket:

Main entrees such as chicken, meat, etc.
Sandwiches
Pies
Salad
Refreshing drinks
Fresh fruits
Crackers
Cookies
Yogurt cups

Picnic recipes

Are you tired of your usual PB&J sandwiches for your family picnics? Do you want to present some appetizing food that looks like you prepared a proper meal instead of a picnic food? If you want something new to prepare for your family day, then here are some delicious and fulfilling picnic recipes that are easy to make and pack!

15. No-Bake Caramel Oat Bites Recipe

As an avid camper and RVer, I am always looking for easy but delicious food. If I can make something and not use an oven that is a major plus since many smaller campers don’t have an oven.

Check it here.

14. Chili Lime Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers

While these Chili Lime Shrimp & Pineapple Skewers make an easy weeknight meal, we’ve also made them for summertime BBQs, 4th of July parties and more!

Check it here.

13. Honey Bourbon Grilled Chicken Thighs (GF)

Grilled Chicken Thighs are coated in a delicious homemade sweet and salty honey bourbon barbeque sauce, grilled to golden brown perfection, and are a finger-licking good summertime quick dinner must.

Check it here.

12. Easy Southern Grape Salad

This family favorite Southern Grape Salad requires only 10 minutes of prep and a few ingredients to whip up! It is creamy, crunchy and a great side dish that doubles as dessert for Potlucks, BBQ, meal trains and summer evenings.

Check it here.

11. How To Make A Fruit Tray Platter (V, GF, P)

Learn how to make a fruit tray that is bursting with gorgeous color and delicious flavor! I am sharing all my tips and tricks for assembling and customizing an amazing fruit platter that is perfect for all sorts of occasions.

Check it here.

10. Quinoa Caprese Salad with Summer Corn

Enjoy this colorful, hearty Summer Corn & Quinoa Caprese Salad packed with veggies, protein, and flavor!

Check it here.

9. Pickle Slaw with Bacon – Oh My!

Give your tired old coleslaw a makeover with this updated twist on a classic: Pickle Slaw with Bacon! It’s got the whole sweet and tangy thing going on, giving it plenty of flavor, and the crunchy pickle bits and salty bacon are just oh-so good!

Check it here.

8. Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers

Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers take your BBQ to the next level! Marinated in a garlic ginger soy marinade and threaded with sweet pineapple and bell peppers, you’ll love how easy this dish is to make — and how delicious it tastes!

Check it here.

7. Grilled Italian Sausage Sandwiches with Pepper-Onion Foil Packs

Grilled Italian Sausage Sandwiches with Pepper-Onion Foil Packs are one of our favorite tailgate party meals.

Check it here.

6. Creamy Pasta Salad

Creamy pasta salad is the perfect bring-along side dish for potlucks and tailgate parties. With an herby, tangy dressing for the win!

Check it here.

5. Mini Cucumber Sandwiches with Dill Cream Cheese

These mini cucumber sandwiches are made with dill cream cheese and make the best appetizer, lunch, or snack. With both cucumbers and radishes, they’re loaded with veggies for a healthy twist on classic tea sandwiches.

Check it here.

4. Apricot-Cherry Slab Pie

Apricot-cherry slab pie is a portable dessert, with a buttery, flaky crust and fresh spring fruit filling. It’s perfect picnic food.

Check it here.

3. Pressed Italian Sandwiches with Olive Tapenade

Need an easy no-cook meal during the warmer months? Prep these sandwiches in 20 minutes and stick them in the fridge to “press” until you’re ready to slice & eat.

Check it here.

2. Picnic Sandwich With Jalapeño Cashew Cheese

This vegan picnic sandwich is loaded with a slathering of jalapeño cashew cheese spread, red bell peppers, thinly sliced onion, and local spinach. A terrific packed lunch that’s fresh, filling, and flavorful.

Check it here.

1. Salted Peanut Bars

Perfect for a picnic or gathering, these easy salted peanut bars have a delicious brown sugar crust, gooey marshmallow filling and a peanut butter and salted peanut chewy topping. These are simple to make, perfectly portable and keep well in a cooler for those summer picnics!

Check it here.