It’s Not A Picnic Without One Of 29 Favorite Dishes

A picnic without food is just people sitting outside, wondering why they left the house, which is why having one of 29 favorite dishes is a non-negotiable. The right pick keeps the group happy, the blanket full, and the ants jealous. From classics that always get claimed first to the ones everyone swears they’ll “just take a little of,” these dishes carry the whole outing.

Beet Salad

A vibrant mix of earthy flavors adds a fresh element to any picnic platter. Beet Salad balances rich tones and light textures, making it a crowd favorite alongside heavier dishes. It pairs perfectly with other classic picnic options without stealing the spotlight. A great way to bring something nutritious and flavorful to the table.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Soft cookies with a bright twist are perfect for packing and sharing. Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies combine the sweetness of muffins with the ease of cookies in every bite. They travel well and pair nicely with other sweet or savory picnic options. A unique, handheld dessert everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Greek Chicken Kabobs

Skewered chicken with bold flavors makes picnic spreads more exciting. Greek Chicken Kabobs are easy to serve and bring a fresh, savory option to outdoor gatherings. Their simplicity works well beside salads or other finger foods. Perfect for feeding a crowd with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Greek Chicken Kabobs

Ham and Swiss Sliders

Rich layers of ham and melted cheese packed into soft rolls create a no-mess snack. Ham and Swiss Sliders are simple to make in large batches and easy to grab. They fit right in with classic picnic goodies while offering something warm and fulfilling. A dependable choice for group settings.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Swiss Sliders

Green Goddess Salad

A mix of fresh greens and creamy textures brings a light yet flavorful option to the picnic. Green Goddess Salad is perfect for guests who want something refreshing and balanced. It stands out with its vibrant presentation but fits well with other entrees and sides. A must-have for adding variety to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Green Goddess Salad

Homemade Buckeyes

Sweet, bite-sized treats make dessert plates an instant hit. Homemade Buckeyes are simple to share and offer a nostalgic favorite everyone loves. They’re easy to grab between bites of other dishes, making them great for group picnics. Small but filled with big sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Buckeyes

Mediterranean Salad

A bold and refreshing salad adds balance to heavier picnic dishes. Mediterranean Salad mixes fresh textures with bursts of flavor in each bite. Easy to make in advance and perfect for pairing with grilled goods or other sides. It’s a light yet memorable addition to the lineup.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salad

Bang Bang Shrimp

Lightly coated shrimp with a flavorful kick bring something new to picnic spreads. Bang Bang Shrimp are perfect as an appetizer or a main dish to surprise everyone. They pair wonderfully with fresh salads or stand alone as a shareable plate. Sure to get attention for their bold taste.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Healthy Chicken Salad

Creamy chicken salad brings a clean and wholesome touch to picnic baskets. Healthy Chicken Salad works as a standalone item or stuffed between bread for a quick sandwich. It combines an easy-to-travel option with delicious flavors guests will appreciate. Simple yet flexible for group meals.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Fun, colorful cookies add charm and sweetness to dessert plates. Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos are as playful as they are delicious, creating a perfect dessert for picnics with kids or adults. They’re easy to pack and won’t melt quickly in outdoor settings. A creative way to finish the meal.
Get the Recipe: Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Antipasto Salad

Mix of meats, cheeses, and pickled vegetables creates a centerpiece for any picnic spread. Antipasto Salad offers a variety of textures and flavors, making it easy to pair with any main dish. It’s portable and keeps well during outdoor meals. Ideal for guests who like variety in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Hearty sliders pack the flavors of a classic Philly sandwich into a portable size. Philly Cheesesteak Sliders are hot, delicious and easy to handle for quick bites. They complement other picnic dishes like salads or chips perfectly. Guests will love these, given their familiar and bold flavor.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Sliders

Banana Bread

Sweet slices that travel well make this a picnic dessert staple. Banana Bread is perfect for serving to a crowd while also fitting nicely as a snack between activities. Its texture is moist yet firm enough to pack without worry. A comforting and easy choice for any outdoor meal.
Get the Recipe: Banana Bread

Cowboy Caviar

A mix of vibrant flavors in a scoopable form fits effortlessly into picnic spreads. Cowboy Caviar works great with chips or as a side to grilled entrees. It’s light, refreshing and perfect for hot days when heavy options are overwhelming. Always a hit for its harmonious balance of texture and seasoning.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar

Key Lime Pie

Sweet and tangy pie offers a refreshing conclusion to a picnic meal. Key Lime Pie delivers a smooth and rich dessert in every slice that’s transportable with ease. Ideal for balancing heavier entrees with something lighter. Its unique flavor adds variety to common picnic desserts.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Pie

Crack Chicken Dip

Rich, creamy dip is an easy hit for any gathering. Crack Chicken Dip pairs well with crackers, bread or veggies, making it super versatile. It’s a perfect choice for snacking while the picnic carries on effortlessly, shared from a central serving bowl. Always one of the first things gone at the table!
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Dip

Asian Slaw

Bright flavors and crunchy textures bring life to picnic side dishes. Asian Slaw complements grilled mains or heavier entrees by offering something light and flavorful. Perfectly suited for outdoor dining it’s an easy salad to make ahead and serve chilled. A refreshing option that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Egg Salad

Creamy salad mixed with light flavors creates a simple and classic picnic choice. Egg Salad can be served as a side or sandwiched into bread for a simple meal. Easy to prepare transport and enjoy while outdoors. A timeless option loved by nearly everyone present.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad

Beef Jerky

Chewy, flavorful strips bring a protein-packed snack to the picnic. Beef Jerky is portable, durable and perfect for guests who like indulging in something a little salty. It pairs well with lighter items or as a standalone treat. Ideal for taking on the go while mingling at outdoor meals.
Get the Recipe: Beef Jerky

Corn Fritters

Light fritters with a crispy edge are always a popular addition to picnic tables. Corn Fritters offer a simple snack that pairs well with almost every dish at the table. They’re easy to grab without utensils, making them perfect for sharing. A traditional option that blends into picnics smoothly.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Dense Bean Salad

Hearty bean salad brings a filling option to the mix of picnic sides. Dense Bean Salad is packed with flavors that pair well with grilled items or sandwiches. It is easy to make ahead of time and keeps fresh throughout the outing. An essential picnic side that can stand alone as well.
Get the Recipe: Dense Bean Salad

Key Lime Bars

Sweet and tart bars provide a portable dessert bursting with flavor. Key Lime Bars are an easy way to bring single-serve treats to a picnic spread. They travel well and are quick to enjoy without needing utensils. Guests will appreciate the bright twist on traditional sweets.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Bars

Pico de Gallo

Fresh, chunky salsa lifts up chips and grilled items during the meal. Pico de Gallo brings vibrant flavor that fits beautifully beside almost every picnic dish. It adds a light, refreshing option to heavier items on the table. A reliable and simple way to keep guests coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Italian Sub Pinwheels

Rolled layers of classic sandwich ingredients make the perfect picnic bite. Italian Sub Pinwheels are packed with flavor but easy to handle for guests on the move. They fit comfortably into smaller servings without losing their bold taste. A creative upgrade from plain sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sub Pinwheels

Lemon Bars

Bright, tangy squares add a refreshing dessert option to the picnic. Lemon Bars are easy to pack and carry for tables full of outdoor treats. Their balance of sweet and tart flavors pairs well with almost every other dish. Guests quickly finish these light and flavorful bars.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Colorful mix of pasta and smoky vegetables fits right into casual meal plans. Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies stands out with bold textures that are good enough on their own or as a side. It’s simple to make ahead and perfect when served chilled for outdoor events. Great for adding variety to the table.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Mexican Street Corn Dip

Savory dip adds a bold Mexican-inspired twist to any picnic. Mexican Street Corn Dip pairs beautifully with chips or fresh vegetables while standing out on its own. Easy to prepare ahead of time and serve chilled or warm as needed. A fun option loved by guests of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Dip

Italian Pasta Salad

Cold pasta mixed with Italian-inspired flavors works well in outdoor settings. Italian Pasta Salad is easy to share, packed in bowls for guests to serve themselves. It pairs well with grilled meat sandwiches or other salads, adding variety to the lineup. A picnic classic that never goes wrong.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Sweet bars combining fruity and creamy flavors add a special touch to desserts. Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars bring a rich balance that guests enjoy without being too messy for outdoor eating. Easy to pack and serve as single portions for cleaner cleanups. A hit for sweet tooth cravings after the main meal.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars