With options for eating out limited, Dewey and I have been finding new ways to go out on a “date” and have a delicious meal – like taking advantage of the beautiful weather and having a picnic at the park. It’s the perfect way to get out of the house – and spend some quality time together (in a safe way). If you’re planning your own picnic or beach day, but you’re not sure what to make, I asked Zach to share some of his favorite picnic-ready recipes.
Photo: Craving California
Photo: Love & Lemons
Whipped Feta Dip
Is there a more perfect picnic snack than chips and dip? I don’t think so. Skip the store-bought dip and make this easy, delicious recipe. It’s creamy, tangy, and packs just the right amount of heat! It’s equally as good with pita chips as it is with carrots, cucumber or celery. If you have any leftover (which you probably won’t) it also makes a great spread for a sandwich!
CLICK HERE FOR FULL RECIPE
Avocado Summer Rolls
These rolls are packed with fresh summer veggies and herbs. They’re the perfect light, refreshing snack to take with you on a hot day. They’re easy to customize and make your own. Add a little more of what you like most and leave out anything you don’t. I like to add a couple of slivers of red bell pepper and maybe a little bit of mint to make it extra summery. Plus they’re vegan!
CLICK HERE FOR FULL RECIPE
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Photo: Lively Table
Photo: Bon Appetit
Apricot Basil Chicken Salad
Chicken salad is a picnic staple for a reason! It’s easy to make, travels well, and can be eaten cold. This summery version uses apricots and fresh basil for a burst of freshness. Eat it on bread, crackers, in a lettuce wrap, or just by itself!
CLICK HERE FOR FULL RECIPE
Potato Salad with Mustard Sauce
This potato salad recipe is lighter than your traditional mayo heavy version. It uses a mustard sauce to pack in the flavor and some watercress to balance out the heaviness of the potatoes. It’ll make you feel satisfied, but still ready for a hike or dip in the ocean!
CLICK HERE FOR FULL RECIPE
Photo: Half Baked Harvest
Photo: Pinch of Yum
Tuscan Tuna Sandwich
Tuna sandwiches are one of my go to beach day snack! This Italian inspired version uses to tahini and greek yogurt instead of mayo to make it healthier, but still full of flavor. The thick, hearty ciabatta makes it the perfect post hike or surf meal!
CLICK HERE FOR FULL RECIPE
Tofu Firecracker Lettuce Wraps
If you’re looking for a vegan option this is it! The brown rice noodles add some heartiness while the fresh, crisp lettuce keeps it light. Just make sure you pack the filling and lettuce separately so it doesn’t get soggy while you travel.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL RECIPE
Photo: Southern Living
Photo: Food 52
No Bake Granola Bars
These granola bars are easy to make a big batch of and will stay good for days so you can keep snacking on them! I like to whip up the base and then make a few smaller batches with different filling.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL RECIPE
Spicy Chocolate Chip Hazelnut Cookies
These cookies are somehow both crispy and chewy at the same time! The ginger gives this a kick of “spicyness” while the hazelnuts balance it out. Oh, and they’re gluten free!
CLICK HERE FOR FULL RECIPE
These look great recipes and ideas for enjoying outdoors in the fresh air looking forward to trying some ASAP. Avocado summer rolls, apricot chicken salad and the granola bars will be first on the list I think. Love the budget friendly product selections too. Thankyou for thinking of this article to inspire us to pack up some food and get out into the outdoors. Love, Good blessings and happy days to you you and yours xx
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Hope you enjoy the recipes! Thanks for the sweet comments xx -B
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Oh Bobby Berk, I am such a wussy. I’m not good with hot spicy anything. Despite this fact, I printed all of the recipe offerings and will most likely modify the amount of heat (yeah, probably none at all…). Thanks for these all the same. Keep up the good work!
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Hope you get to try some of the recipes – they’re not too spicy and include lots of veggies. Thanks for reading! xx -B
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