Picnic Season Is Peaking and So Are These 15 Recipes

ByMandy

When the weather’s this good, you don’t waste it cooking all day—and these 15 recipes get that. They’re low effort, easy to pack, and don’t fall apart the second they hit open air. Great for group hangs, solo snacks, or anything in between. You’ll bring one of these once and instantly get nominated to bring it again.

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.

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.

A fun twist on classic piggies in a blanket, Brats in a Blanket take things up a notch with more flavor. Perfect for a gathering, they’re easy to grab and enjoy. Kids and adults alike will love this simple yet tasty treat. These are always a hit and great for eating while mingling outdoors.
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.

Bring this to your next outing, and it’s bound to be gone quickly. If you want a salad that’s packed with variety, Antipasto Salad is your go-to. It’s loaded with different ingredients, making every bite a surprise. It’s a delicious way to please a crowd without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

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.

You can’t go wrong with a Charcuterie Board. It’s visually appealing and offers something for everyone. Whether you want a light bite or to sample different flavors, this board has it all. It’s the perfect sharing option for any casual get-together, making arranging simple and fun.
Get the Recipe: Charcuterie Board

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.

For those craving a bit of a kick, Bang Bang Shrimp delivers. It’s a great way to spice up your spread with minimal fuss. Their crispy texture and flavorful punch make them unforgettable. You might want to make extra, as these tend to disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

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.

These hand-held bites can’t be beaten for convenience and tastiness. Easy to make and even easier to eat, Ham and Swiss Sliders are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re the perfect size for snacking and have just the right amount of flavor. Great for any laid-back gathering!
Get the Recipe: Ham and Swiss Sliders

Caesar Salad

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

You know a picnic isn’t complete without a Caesar Salad. It’s fresh, easy to throw together, and universally liked. With its straightforward ingredients, you can’t go wrong. Bring this, and it’s sure to be a hit among folks looking for something light but gratifying.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Beef Jerky

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

Another solid choice for a day outdoors is Beef Jerky. It’s easy to pack, needs no special handling, and always hits the spot. The tasty snack is perfect for grazing all day. Plus, it’s a great way to keep everyone’s energy up while enjoying the fresh air.
Get the Recipe: Beef Jerky

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.

Switch things up with a Healthy Chicken Salad. It’s a fresh and light option that’s sure to please. Without heavy dressings, it’s a nice break from more indulgent choices. Perfect for those wanting something balanced while enjoying a relaxed time out.
Get the Recipe: Healthy Chicken Salad

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a unique twist, bring some Caprese Pesto Tarts. These little bites are packed with flavor and look impressive. They blend textures and tastes in a delicious way. Excellent for sharing, you’ll be the hit of the event with these in your basket.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Homemade Buckeyes

Close-up of homemade buckeyes, featuring chocolate-covered peanut butter balls. One is bitten to reveal the creamy peanut butter filling inside.
Homemade Buckeyes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sweet tooths will go wild for Homemade Buckeyes. They’re that perfect blend of peanut butter and chocolate. Small and bite-sized, they’re easy to hand out and enjoy. This bit of sweetness is an excellent way to round out your spread.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Buckeyes

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A Caesar salad with grilled chicken, penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, croutons, and shredded cheese, topped with Caesar dressing on a bed of lettuce.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combining two loved dishes, Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a winner. It’s both filling and refreshing, making it great for sharing. Easy to make in advance, this dish holds up well throughout a sunny day. Everyone will appreciate the twist on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Close-up of three spiral pastry rolls on a black plate, filled with herbs and cheese. Green garnish and a jalapeño pepper are in the background.
Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

These are perfect when you crave bold flavor in a convenient package. If you’re aiming for a bit of spice, Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel is a great choice. It’s a fun spin that packs everything loved about a popper into a neat, easy-to-eat format. Always a hit at any event.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Pinwheel

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

You can’t go wrong with Macaroni Salad. It’s a trusty go-to when you need something simple that everyone loves. Its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients make it a comfort food classic. Serve this, and your gathering is sure to have people coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

Close-up of a marshmallow swirl cookie with a bite taken out, revealing its gooey interior and white filling. Other cookies are partially visible in the background.
Marshmallow Swirl Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For dessert lovers, you’ve got to add Marshmallow Swirl Cookies to your basket. They’re not your average cookie, with a fun mix of marshmallow swirls. Great for gratifying sweet cravings and easy to handle. It’s the treat everyone will be talking about afterward.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

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.

Add some international flair with Chicken Shawarma. It’s packed with rich flavors that make it stand out. This is great when you want something a bit different but still easy to grab and share. A surefire conversation starter at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Shawarma

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