We are back to a bit of a more “practical” post this week, but a good one 😉. I am sharing my 10 easy picnic food ideas for a fab day out. Whether it is an actual picnic you are attending / organizing, heading to the countryside on a day trip, spending some time on a (secluded) beach, or at a lake – it is always a really good idea to bring some snacks and food for the day. I mean – who does not like good food?!
Most of these suggestions keep well and don’t perish easily, even if it is warm. However, if you do have it – try and bring a cooler. I have a small cooler backpack that I take everywhere. It is super roomy and keeps the goods excellently cold. When I originally bought it, my husband told me that it will never get used. Well, he was wrong 😅!
Fruit
I mean – fruit is always a good idea, but especially on a summer day out. Summer fruit such as watermelon, grapes, cherries, and peaches are all great options and pack and store easily. Strawberries are lovely but may be a bit more prone to not needing to be squished. Bananas provide an instant energy boost and are full of nutrients as well.
Crackers
Who does not like crackers?! They provide great texture, are an easy grab-and-go option, and do not need any cutting (or similar). You can also pack some lentil chips or similar, which are also awesome. They also go well with the next suggestion…
Dips
Obviously, you need dips to go with your crackers. My Best Homemade Hummus is an ideal one to use. It only contains a few ingredients and can last all day even when warm (but let us be honest, it likely will not – as it is too delicious!!). Other great options are:
Veggies
Another great option for your dips at hand. Sliced carrots, mini bell peppers (or peppers in general), and small cocktail tomatoes require minimal prep (i.e. washing) and are such an easy snack.
Olives
These are super non-perishable, provide you with loads of healthy fats, and add deliciousness to any picnic. They are also literally bought and thrown into your picnic basket – it does not get less minimal preppy than that.
Nuts
Similar to olives, nuts provide great healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They are also delicious and non-perishable. They make a great, really easy to eat snack.
Salads
You know I am a huge fan of salads. They are a great addition in order to amp up both the nutrient profile and/or your fiber intake for every meal. I have (on many occassions) whipped up my Vegan Potato Salad. It is a crowd pleaser, super easy to make, and I do not have to worry about it spoiling. Other great options for a date out are kale salads. Kale has a lot of texture and therefore lasts all day long. Other great options to try are:
- Five Minute Vegan Caesar Dressing (for the kale)
- Vegetarian Taco Salad (contains little dairy you could ommit)
- Vegan Tuscan “Tuna” and White Bean Salad
- Easiest Yummy Chickpea Salad
- Lentil Salad with Apple and Fennel
Sweet Treats
Anyone who knows me knows that this list would not be completed without something sweet, right?! I love my Strawberry Banana Muffins in a mini muffin form so that they are small bites you can enjoy easily throughout the day. Cookies are usually also a fantastic option. You could try these Crunchy Ginger Cookies or these Lemon Chia Cookies. This Coconut Milk Rice with Mango is also delicious and a great sweet addition to your dessert.
Additional Ideas
Here is a random list of things that I would likely also pack that does not truly fit into any of the categories. A bit of dried fruit, a little chutney or jam, cheese and some hard-boiled eggs.
Hydration
Last but not least – please do not forget to stay hydrated! Sparkling water, coconut water, kombutscha, or lemonade are a few “fancy” options for a day out. Obviously, a beer or a little wine can also be thrown in there, if you drink alcohol 😉. Those options should be on top of your water intake. Let’s face it – there is nothing worse than coming back from a day in the sun and feeling like crap (and likely then also nursing a headache).
One Additional Tip
Always use good judgment – if any of the food smells off after a long day out and about in the heat – it likely is off. Be sure to rather toss it than turning over your tummy.
I hope these 10 easy picnic food ideas have provided you with inspiration on what to pack for a summer day out. Where ever you are taking your adventures this summer – enjoy, be present, and have a great time!! Beautiful cover photo by Kateryna Hliznitsova on Unsplash.
