These 27 Picnic Recipes Help Me Keep It Simple And Still Show Up

ByMandy Applegate

Planning for a picnic can feel tricky, but keeping it simple works best. These 27 recipes offer easy ideas that don’t take much effort yet deliver big flavors. Fresh and quick combinations make showing up with something special so much easier. Simple steps turn into the perfect picnic joy every time!

Close-up of a wrap filled with grilled chicken, lettuce, cucumber, red onion, and sauce in a folded flatbread.
Chicken Shawarma. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bring a crowd-pleasing dish to your next outdoor gathering. Bang Bang Shrimp, with its crispy breading and creamy, spicy sauce, is a standout option that’s bursting with flavor. This shrimp recipe adds just the right level of fun to your meal. Perfect for impressing friends and family alike.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Charcuterie Board

A charcuterie board featuring prosciutto, pickles, green olives, blue cheese, breadsticks, baguette slices, grapes, a jar of honey, and a round cheese topped with a dollop of jam.
Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Create an inviting spread with a Charcuterie Board. Combining meats, cheeses, and extras, it offers variety and enjoyment without much effort. Great for sharing and snacking through a long picnic. Impress guests with different flavors in a simple setup.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Grilled ribs garnished with herbs and served with a side of sauce and onions.
Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Big, bold flavors don’t have to involve a grill. Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe makes it easy to serve up tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs packed with smoky goodness. Whether prepped ahead or served fresh, ribs this flavorful are always the star of the show. Tuck them in with your picnic basket and watch everyone dig in. These are what outdoor feasting is all about.
Get the Recipe: Best Oven Baked Ribs Recipe

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Close-up of sliced chicken wraps with lettuce, cheese, and a creamy sauce, next to an open jar of mustard on a wooden surface.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Enjoy a picnic-friendly meal that’s easy to pack. Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap combines flavorful chicken with crisp lettuce and dressing. It stays mess-free and is quick to unwrap and eat. Perfect for a simple yet wholesome outdoor lunch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cheesy snacks with a twist are always a hit at gatherings. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls combine smooth, creamy cheese with crunchy bacon and a touch of jalapeño heat. Served with crackers or fresh veggies, they’re irresistible in every bite. Perfectly easy to transport, they shine on any picnic spread. A crowd favorite you can’t go wrong with.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Beef Jerky

A plate of beef jerky slices next to a small bowl of dipping sauce.
Beef Jerky. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re looking for a snack that’s full of flavor and easy to carry, try Beef Jerky. It’s an ideal option to keep hunger at bay without the mess. Share it with friends or enjoy it solo. This protein-packed treat is great for adding variety to your picnic.
Get the Recipe: Beef Jerky

Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby.
Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add a playful crunch to your next picnic lineup. Tanghulu is all about fresh fruit coated in a glossy, hard candy shell, offering a wholesome mix of textures. From strawberries to grapes, it’s an eye-catching treat everyone will reach for. This simple recipe stands out beautifully on a sunny day. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, grated cheese, and dressing.
Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Mix in some greens for a refreshing picnic choice. Caesar Salad offers a classic combination of crisp lettuce and tasty dressing that pairs well with any lineup. Light but pleasing, it’s a reliable option for warm weather outings. Keep things simple yet flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Turkey Sliders

Close-up of a seasoned bagel sandwich with melted cheese and turkey slider filling, topped with seeds.
Turkey Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bite-sized options always win hearts at outdoor gatherings. Turkey Sliders effortlessly combine juicy patties with flavorful toppings, making them ideal for any picnic. They’re perfectly portable and packed with enough flavor to impress every guest. Each slider is just the right size for snacking. Whip them up to keep everyone satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders

Tuna Salad

A bowl of tuna salad mixed with chopped herbs, likely parsley or chives, with a spoon resting inside the bowl.
Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Keep it light and delicious with Tuna Salad. This protein-packed option is versatile and works well on its own or as a spread. It’s budget-friendly and flavorful, fitting perfectly into any picnic. Easy to prepare and enjoy outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Spice up your picnic menu with Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. They combine tangy buffalo chicken with soft rolls, making them easy to grab-and-go. A crowd-pleasing choice that’s both hearty and flavorful. Perfect for casual outdoor gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Copycat Big Mac Salad

Close-up of a salad featuring ground beef, sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and diced onions, topped with a creamy dressing.
Copycat Big Mac Salad. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Turn a familiar favorite into a light picnic dish with Copycat Big Mac Salad. All the flavors of the classic sandwich without the heaviness. It’s refreshing and pleasing for an outdoor meal. Perfect for those who enjoy familiar tastes with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Big Mac Salad

Brats in a Blanket

Sliced sausage wrapped in golden-brown pastry, sprinkled with sesame and poppy seeds.
Brats in a Blanket. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Switch up your picnic spread with Brats in a Blanket. These fun bites are easy to eat and packed with flavor, making them a hit. The portable nature means they’re ideal for outdoor meals. A creative twist on a classic without complicating things.
Get the Recipe: Brats in a Blanket

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For something easy and full of variety, turn to this classic crowd-pleaser. Antipasto Salad mixes tasty meats, flavorful cheeses, and tangy marinated veggies into a dish that everyone loves. Best served chilled, it’s as refreshing as it is pleasing. An excellent choice for prepping ahead and enjoying outdoors. Every bite is packed with a touch of Italy.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bite-sized treats that pack a punch, here’s Sausage Balls. These savory snacks are easy to serve and always a favorite. Perfect for mingling with other dishes without taking up too much space. Great for a hearty touch at any picnic gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Asian Slaw

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with shredded purple and green cabbage, carrots, chopped peanuts, and greens, mixed with dressing.
Asian Slaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A little crunch goes a long way in rounding out your picnic. Asian Slaw, packed with fresh veggies and tossed in a light dressing, offers refreshing flavors in every bite. It’s vibrant, easy to prepare, and pairs well with nearly everything on the menu. This side dish is ideal for adding variety to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Grilled chicken skewers with red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and onions are served on a white plate, garnished with chopped herbs.
Grilled Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Keep things simple yet flavorful with perfectly seasoned and skewered chicken. Grilled Chicken Kabobs deliver tender bites cooked over the flames that bring smoky goodness to any outdoor meal. They’re versatile, fast to grill, and great for group gatherings. Perfectly portioned for picnics and fun to assemble!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

A plate of watermelon salad with cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and mint leaves, served with a lime wedge.
Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Brighten up your menu with something light and vibrant. Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad blends juicy watermelon, fresh mint, and plant-based feta for a combination that feels as refreshing as it tastes. Its balance of sweet and tasty flavors keeps everyone coming back for seconds. A picnic dish that feels effortless yet special.
Get the Recipe: Watermelon Vegan Feta Salad

Tzatziki

A bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce garnished with chopped dill and a swirl of olive oil. Fresh dill and garlic are nearby.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cool and refreshing sides bring balance to any picnic spread. Tzatziki, made with yogurt, cucumber, and a hint of garlic, pairs well with everything from veggies to grilled meats. Whether served as a dip or sauce, it’s a versatile addition to the table. Prepare it in advance for an easy, crowd-pleasing option. Light, herby, and perfect for outdoor feasts.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilled meat ribs garnished with chopped herbs and garlic, served on a white platter with fresh parsley in the background.
Grilled Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy and packed with flavor, this picnic dish is simplicity at its best. Grilled Chicken Thighs are marinated for incredible taste and seared to perfection on the grill. Pair them with salads or corn on the cob as a crowd-pleasing picnic menu item. They’re easy to prep and great when served hot or cold. Ideal for feeding a hungry group outdoors!
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs

Best Taco Salad Cups

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bring some vibrant flavor to your picnic with crispy, handheld cups loaded with taco-inspired goodness. Best Taco Salad Cups are a fun twist on classic taco salads and are perfect for sharing outdoors. Easy to put together in minutes, they’re ideal for stress-free gatherings. Everyone will love customizing their own to fit their tastes!
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups

Ham And Swiss Sliders

Two ham and cheese sliders on seeded buns are placed on parchment paper. Bright green parsley is visible in the background.
Ham And Swiss Sliders. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Compact and delicious, these little sandwiches are perfect for sharing at picnics. Ham And Swiss Sliders combine sweet Hawaiian rolls with melty cheese and tasty ham for a flavor-packed bite. They’re easy to assemble and great for feeding a crowd. Perfect finger food to enjoy under the sun!
Get the Recipe: Ham And Swiss Sliders

Healthy Chicken Salad

Close-up of a salad with grilled chicken, strawberries, blueberries, pecans, feta cheese, and a creamy dressing on a bed of leafy greens.
Healthy Chicken Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Give your picnic a wholesome twist with a protein-packed option that’s easy to enjoy on the go. Healthy Chicken Salad blends shredded chicken with creamy Greek yogurt, crisp veggies, and light seasoning. A versatile and health-conscious addition!
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Close-up of sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and rice, topped with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a beige plate.
Shrimp Tempura Roll. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Perfect for picnics, sushi lovers will appreciate this dish that’s light yet filling. Shrimp Tempura Roll combines crispy fried shrimp, creamy avocado, and seasoned rice wrapped in nori. Slice them into bite-sized pieces that are easy to grab and enjoy outdoors. Pair with dipping sauces for extra flair!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Guacamole

Close-up of guacamole on a tortilla chip, showing a textured mixture of avocado, herbs, and spices.
Guacamole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Add a creamy, crowd-favorite snack to your picnic spread with a classic dip everyone enjoys. Guacamole is made fresh with ripe avocados, lime juice, and a hint of seasoning that brings out bold flavors. It’s colorful, refreshing, and packed with nutrients ideal for outdoor vibes. Don’t forget the extra squeeze of lime!
Get the Recipe: Guacamole

Broccoli Salad With Creamy Dressing

Close-up of a delightful broccoli salad with crispy bacon, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing. Mixed ingredients are visible in detail, showcasing the vibrant textures and colors of this fresh broccoli salad.
Broccoli Salad With Creamy Dressing. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Brighten up your spread with a veggie-packed option that’s both fresh and indulgent. Broccoli Salad With Creamy Dressing blends wholesome ingredients for a perfect balance of texture and flavor. It’s also make-ahead friendly and travels well in your cooler. A perfect addition to warm-weather get-togethers!
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Salad With Creamy Dressing

Chicken Shawarma

Close-up of a wrap filled with grilled chicken, lettuce, cucumber, red onion, and sauce in a folded flatbread.
Chicken Shawarma. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Infuse your picnic with bold flavors that are impossible to resist. Chicken Shawarma is marinated in spices and grilled to perfection, ready to be served in pita bread wraps or as a salad topping. Add fresh veggies and creamy tahini sauce for a complete dish that stands out on the picnic table. It’s an impressive option that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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