The Best Summer Picnic Food By Category
What’s better than a family picnic on a summer evening? Picnics at the park are a cherished tradition for many families, offering a perfect opportunity to bond, relax, and enjoy some good food. Whether you're heading to a local park, the beach, or your own backyard, choosing the right summer picnic food can be hard. You want dishes that are delicious, easy to transport, and safe to eat outdoors.
In this article, we'll discuss some of the best summer picnic foods by category, preparing you with everything you need for a fun picnic feast!
Refreshing Picnic Drinks
One of the most enjoyable but overlooked picnic items is what to drink. In summer, this is your perfect opportunity to enjoy an ice-cold beverage. Here are some ideas.
Homemade Lemonades
Nothing says summer like a refreshing glass of lemonade. Classic lemonade is always a hit, but why not mix things up with some variations? Strawberry lemonade delights everyone with a sweet twist, while lavender lemonade provides a unique, floral flavor. Homemade lemonades are easy to make and can be stored in insulated bottles to keep them cool.
Fruit-Infused “Mocktails”
Staying hydrated is essential during a summer picnic. Fruit-infused water is a healthy and flavorful option. Try combinations like cucumber-mint, berry blast, or citrus medley. Simply add your chosen fruits and herbs to a jug of water and let it infuse for a few hours.
Iced Tea Variations
Iced tea is another classic summer drink. Southern sweet tea is a favorite, but you can also try peach tea or green tea with honey for a refreshing change. Brew your tea in advance and store it in a cooler to keep it chilled.
Picnic Appetizers and Snacks
You’re supposed to take your time and mingle during an outdoor picnic. Enter the standout picnic food item: the appetizers (finger foods are best!).
Fresh Veggie Platters and Dips
A veggie platter is a healthy and colorful addition to any picnic. Include a variety of fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Pair them with dips such as hummus, ranch, or tzatziki for a tasty snack.
Cheese and Crackers Assortment
Cheese and crackers are a classic picnic snack. To be fancy, you can also opt for a charcuterie board. Both offer a selection of cheeses like cheddar, brie, and gouda, along with an assortment of meat, sweets, and crackers. This combination is easy to pack and always a crowd-pleaser.
Homemade Snack Mix
Snack mix is a versatile and easy-to-make appetizer that you can throw into a baggie and lay out on a picnic tray. Be considerate of family members’ food allergies but get creative! You can include chips, pretzels, dried fruits, bar nuts, popcorn, Chex Mix, dried peas, and any other munchy item for a delicious and energy-boosting treat. No cutlery is required.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a picnic favorite. They are easy to prepare and transport, and they make a tasty and satisfying snack. You can also experiment with different fillings to add variety.
Bruschetta With Cherry Tomatoes
Bruschetta is a simple yet flavorful appetizer. Top slices of toasted baguette with a mixture of cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil. It's a light and refreshing option for a summer picnic.
Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are a fun and easy-to-eat snack. Skewer cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves, and drizzle with balsamic glaze. These skewers are both delicious and visually appealing.
Main Dishes for Family Picnics
While appetizers entertain and excite, the main meal satisfies empty bellies. Here are some classic, creative picnic go-tos to bring to your next family summer meal!
Bougie Sandwiches and Wraps
Sandwiches and wraps are picnic staples. Try club sandwiches, veggie wraps, or chicken Caesar wraps for a variety of flavors. They are easy to assemble, easy to grab and go, and can be customized to suit everyone's tastes.
Cold Fried Chicken
Cold fried chicken is a classic picnic main dish. It's flavorful, easy to transport, and can be enjoyed at room temperature. Prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge until you're ready to pack.
Quiches
Quiches are versatile and delicious. Spinach and feta quiche or Lorraine quiche are great options for a picnic. They can be made ahead of time and served cold or at room temperature.
Grilled Vegetable Platter
A grilled vegetable platter is a healthy and flavorful main dish. Grill a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, and serve them with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Cold Cut Platter with Assorted Breads
A cold cut platter with assorted breads is a simple and customizable option. Include a variety of meats, cheeses, and breads, and let everyone build their own sandwiches.
Sides and Salads
Don’t forget the sides—everyone’s picnic favorite—or the cool, nutritious salads.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a picnic classic. Try different variations like classic potato salad, German potato salad with a tangy vinegar dressing, or sweet potato salad for a twist on the traditional.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy side dish. Choose from creamy coleslaw, vinegar-based coleslaw, or Asian-inspired coleslaw with a sesame dressing.
Fruit Salad
Fruit salad is a sweet and refreshing side dish. Create a mixed berry salad, tropical fruit salad with pineapple and mango, or a melon medley for a colorful and healthy option.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad is a nutritious and filling side dish. Combine cooked quinoa with vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing for a delicious and healthy addition to your picnic.
Pasta Salads
Pasta salads are perfect for picnics because they can be made in advance and served cold. Try Mediterranean pasta salad with olives and feta, pesto pasta salad, or tuna pasta salad for a hearty and satisfying dish.
Greek Salad
Greek salad is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish. Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese with a simple olive oil and lemon dressing.
Three-Bean Salad
Three-bean salad is a protein-packed side dish. Combine kidney beans, chickpeas, and green beans with a tangy vinaigrette for a satisfying and healthy option.
Desserts
Save the sweetest for last. These picnic desserts are timeless crowd-pleasers.
Cookies and Brownies
Cookies and brownies are always a hit at picnics. Pack a variety of flavors like chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies, and fudge brownies for a sweet treat.
Fresh Fruit Skewers and Yogurt Dip
Fresh fruit skewers are a fun and healthy dessert. Skewer a variety of fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and grapes, and serve with a yogurt dip for a refreshing and sweet treat.
No-Bake Treats
No-bake treats are perfect for picnics because they don't require an oven. Try energy balls, rice krispie treats, or no-bake cheesecake cups for a delicious and easy dessert.
Watermelon Slices
Watermelon slices are a classic summer dessert. They are refreshing, hydrating, and easy to pack. Simply slice a watermelon into wedges and store it in a cooler.
Homemade Popsicles
Homemade popsicles are a fun and refreshing dessert. Use fruit juice, yogurt, or pureed fruit to create your own popsicles. Store them in a cooler with ice packs to keep them frozen until it’s time to enjoy.
Individual Fruit Pies
Individual fruit pies are a delicious and portable dessert. Make mini pies with your favorite fruits like apples, berries, or peaches. They are easy to pack and perfect for a picnic.
Plan Your Next Summer Picnic the Right Way
Choosing your summer picnic foods is part of creating a memorable and enjoyable outdoor experience for your family. From refreshing drinks and tasty appetizers to satisfying main dishes and sweet desserts, there are plenty of options to suit every taste. Don't forget to consider practical packing and serving tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free picnic.
Need help planning your next summer picnic? With the help of the Family Daily app, plan and prepare everything you need ahead of time. The perfect summer picnic has never been easier. Download the Family Daily app today and start organizing your next summer meal with ease!
