Easy Recipes for the Perfect Summer Picnic

Summer is finally here, and that means flirty summer dresses, deliciously cool salads, and summer cocktails! Summer is my favorite season, mostly because I love warm weather and Springtime allergies are no longer plaguing me.

I don’t know about you, but it’s time to start planning some outdoors activities to enjoy the amazing weather. After all, what is Summer without a delicious picnic? We gathered some delicious and healthy on-the-go recipes, that will fit perfectly into your picnic basket.

Drinks

Strawberry limeade

Lemonade always seems to be the belle of the Summer ball, but I’m here to tell you, that limes take summer drinks to the next level. The limeade flavor blends so well with the strawberries and the mint, turning into a delicious and refreshing summer beverage. Head to Fifteen Spatulas for the full recipe.

Watermelon agua fresca

We have a full list of appetizers, sandwiches, and desserts here but I’m afraid it will be this Watermelon agua fresca that will steal the show! Whizzed up in the blender with a few ice cubes, it can be thrown together in just 5 minutes and it tastes absolutely delicious. Get the recipe at Simple Bites!

Appetizers 

Deviled Eggs

Having spent a lot of time in North Carolina, I have certainly tasted more than my fair share of deviled eggs recipes throughout the years. They are just the perfect accompaniment for holiday dinners or appetizers at parties and picnics. They are easy to make and delicious! Check out the Recipe Girl’s version for a deluxe deviled egg and she also includes five other versions that do a spin on the traditional version!

Salami Roll-ups

Quick, easy, and super tasty, these salami roll-ups will become your go-to appetizer for office parties, holidays, and your upcoming summer picnic. Check out Taste of Home for the complete recipe.

Sandwiches

Caprese sandwich

A classic sandwich that is a great vegetarian option, the best Caprese sandwich embodies simplicity in its healthy ingredient list and in not needing any cooking efforts, just assembling. There are different ways of making this dish, but you can check out Heidi’s recipe at Foodiecrush.

Chicken Waldorf

Sandwiches How about a twist on your regular chicken salad sandwiches? This is a super flexible recipe. Feel free to use canned or rotisserie chicken, but also other types of meat like tuna or salmon. It's a great way to use the leftovers you have laying around. Check out the full recipe at The Spruce Eats.

Salads

Corn Salad

Corn salads are super traditional for summer! This recipe takes it up a notch by introducing the smoky flavor of grilled corn and a creamy sauce flavored with mayo, lime, chili powder, and cumin. The flavors are reminiscent of Mexican street corn. Check out A Couple of Cooks super easy step-by-step for this incredible recipe.

Potato Salad

Speaking of traditional… what is a picnic without some good ol’ potato salad!? Everybody’s mom, dad, grandma, has their own recipe, I’m sure of it! BUT I thought I leave a personal favorite here just in case you haven’t decided on a go-to potato salad recipe. Sommer Collier at A Spicy Perspective claims this is The Best Potato Salad Recipe Ever!

Dessert

Ricotta and Summer Berry Parfaits

What says Summer better than a bowl full of berries? These dessert parfaits are so simple and so pretty – they look fancier than they have a right to be, considering how easy they are to make. Get the recipe for the perfect finish to a summer meal at Simply Recipes.

Shortbread M&M Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies seem to rule the world, so this time, we are forging a rebellion and bringing to you our main player: M&M Cookies! They are soft, perfectly crumbly, buttery, and colorfully fun! Check out Oh Sweet Basil’s recipe.

Let us know what your go-to picnic recipes are!