Summer Picnic Recipes

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Summer calls for the perfect picnic spread—and with these crowd-pleasing recipes, you’re sure to delight everyone on your next outdoor adventure. From savory delights to sweet treats, let’s dig into everything you need to pack up sunshine on a plate!

1. Antipasto Picnic Sandwiches

Your Italian picnic dreams come true with these sandwiches! Packed with cured meats, cheese, and vibrant veggies, these are satisfying and delicious. Just be sure to pack them carefully to avoid any sogginess. Layering protective greens like lettuce between the bread and fillings can help!

A chopped Italian sandwich on a cutting board with a knife, two sandwich slices and a bunch of grapes next to it.

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2. Creamy Broccoli Salad

This cool, crunchy salad is a refreshing twist on the picnic classics. Full of nutritious broccoli and creamy goodness, it’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Pair it with lighter dishes for a balanced spread, as it can be a bit rich for some guests.

A close up of broccoli salad, with chopped broccoli, red onion, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and bacon, with a light creamy dressing.

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3. Mezze Platter

A mezze platter is picnic perfection for those who love a bit of everything! Featuring spreads, veggies, and fresh pita, it’s great for sharing and lets everyone pick their favorites. Pro tip: prevent dairy-based dips like hummus from overheating by keeping them in a cooler.

top down view of the completed mezze platter

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4. Skillet Fried Chicken

Is there anything more picnic-perfect than crispy fried chicken? While best enjoyed fresh, cooling it down before packing can help retain its crunch. Consider making it one of the first dishes you dive into before it loses its charm!

Fried chicken on a plate with bowl of macaroni salad in the middle

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5. Grilled Chicken Wraps

Portable and delicious, grilled chicken wraps are a win for easy picnic feasting. The tender chicken pairs with fresh summer veggies for a perfect bite, though keep sauces minimal to avoid mess during those sunny outdoor meals.

4 grilled chicken wraps stacked on a plate

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6. Strawberry Yogurt Fruit Dip

A sweet and creamy addition, this yogurt dip pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits. It’s easy and refreshing but make sure to keep it chilled as yogurt-based dishes can quickly lose their appeal in the summer heat.

A bowl of strawberry fruit dip with strawberries and cherries scattered around it.

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7. Grilled Watermelon Salad

Grilled watermelon is a unique twist on classic summer fruits. Combined with feta or mint, it brings out a surprising depth of flavor. However, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea—stick to classic fruits if your guests favor more traditional tastes.

top down view of the completed grilled watermelon salad

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8. Strawberry Shortcake

This light and sweet dessert is a summertime classic. Juicy berries and whipped cream make it irresistible, but transporting it without the cake going soggy requires some care. Pack the components separately for on-the-spot assembly!

Strawberry shortcake in a jar.

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9. Watermelon Sparklers

These fruit skewers are as festive as they are healthy! Perfect for keeping things playful and light, they’re more of a snack than a main course but are sure to be adored by kids and adults alike.

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10. Key Lime Pie Bars

Zesty, tangy, and perfect for warm weather, these bars bring a refreshing dessert option to your picnic. Keep them chilled to maintain their texture and serve along with drinks for an unbeatable summery treat.

Key lime pie bars with fresh lime slices and lime zest on brown parchment paper.

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With this variety, you’ll have something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re leaning toward savory sharing platters or classic desserts, this guide will help you amp up your picnic game. Bon appétit!