How to Plan the Perfect Picnic
Updated: Aug. 12, 2021
Whether your outing is for two or 20, you're sure to have a good time if you keep these picnic pointers in mind.
The sun is shining, flowers are blooming—and that gingham blanket that’s been sitting in the back of the closet all winter is ready to make its much-anticipated return. That means, it’s time for a picnic! Outdoor meals require little planning and can be as simple or as elegant as you’d like. Start with these picnic-ready recipes that are easy to pack in a basket.
BLT Macaroni Salad
A friend served this BLT pasta salad, and I just had to get the recipe. My husband loves BLT sandwiches, so this has become a favorite of his. It's nice to serve on hot and humid days, which we frequently get during summer here in Virginia. —Mrs. Hamilton Myers Jr., Charlottesville, Virginia
Don't miss our guide on how to plan the perfect picnic! 
Barbecued Chicken Salad Sandwiches
An impromptu picnic inspired this BBQ chicken salad sandwich. An instant summertime favorite, these dressed-up sandwiches have become a mainstay at our house. —Linda Orme, Battleground, Washington
Rainbow Gelatin Cubes
These layered jello cubes are fun to serve and to eat! I vary the colors to match the occasion. Kids of all ages snatch them up. —Deanna Pietrowicz, Bridgeport, Connecticut Discover even more delightful picnic side dishes.
Tomato-Melon Chicken Salad
Nothing says summer like picking watermelon, tomatoes and raspberries, then tossing them together in a salad. The addition of grilled chicken makes it a satisfying yet still summery meal. —Betsy Hite, Wilton, California
Turkey, Gouda & Apple Tea Sandwiches
Cut into triangles or quarters, these fun mini sandwiches are a tasty addition to an afternoon tea gathering. The cranberry mayo lends an original flavor twist, and the apples give them a sweet-tart crunch. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Confetti Snack Mix
I've made this party mix for many years and I usually double the recipe. It makes a wonderful gift, and everyone always wants the recipe. —Jane Bray, Temple Terrace, Florida
Frosted Lemon-Ricotta Cookies
I work for a Special Education school and our students run their own catering business. Every time they make this for a catering event, they get raves. The students chose the Lemon Ricotta Cookies to submit as their favorite cookie recipe. They say they are the "yummiest and chewiest cookies ever!"—Renee Phillips, Owosso, Michigan
Creamy Coleslaw
For me, this is the best coleslaw recipe because a package of shredded cabbage and carrots really cuts down on prep time. This creamy coleslaw recipe is great for potlucks or to serve to your family on a busy weeknight. —Renee Endress, Galva, Illinois
Classic Macaroni Salad
This classic macaroni salad recipe is a refreshingly light take on an all-time favorite. It's perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or festive weekend barbecue. —Dorothy Bayes, Sardis, Ohio
Grilled Lemon Chicken
My chicken gets its subtle pucker from lemonade concentrate. So simple, so sweet! —Linda Nilsen, Anoka, Minnesota
Herbed Feta Dip
Guests can’t get enough of this thick, zesty dip that bursts with fresh Mediterranean flavor. The feta cheese and fresh mint complement each other beautifully, creating the perfect sidekick for crunchy carrots, toasted pita chips, sliced baguettes or any other dipper you fancy.—Rebecca Ray, Chicago, Illinois
Focaccia Sandwiches
Slices of this pretty sandwich make any casual get-together more speical. Add or change ingredients to your taste. —Peggy Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin
Picnic Fruit Punch
This pink cooler is deliciously thirst-quenching on a warm day. Seeing its color, folks guess it might be pink lemonade. They're pleasantly surprised to discover the bubbly blend includes cranberry, pineapple, orange and lemon juices. —Marion Lowery, Medford, Oregon
Lime-Honey Fruit Salad
Nothing is more refreshing to me than a seasonal fruit salad enhanced with this simple honey-lime dressing. —Victoria Shevlin, Cape Coral, Florida
Cucumber Coleslaw
I created this cucumber coleslaw recipe so I could use a julienne peeler I received as a gift. I had leftover sparkling wine, so I thought I'd try to use it over julienned cucumbers to make this refreshing slaw. It's a nice way to round out a brunch or picnic. —Merry Graham, Newhall, California
PBJ on a Stick
Take the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich on the go with these skewers. They also make easy snacks. —Sara Martin, Brookfield, Wisconsin
Salami Roll-Ups
These bite-size appetizers are a cinch to make with just four ingredients—even your kids can help you with them! —Jean Baffuto, Apache Junction, Arizona
Puppy Chow
This snack mix is perfect for a late-night treat or a pick-me-up any time of the day. I sometimes take a batch to work, and it's always eaten up quickly. It's a slightly different cereal snack because of the chocolate and peanut butter. —Mary Obeilin, Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania
Chicken Caesar Pitas
Hand-held and picnic friendly, these chicken-stuffed pockets pack a double dose of whole grains from brown rice and whole wheat pitas. The chicken can be made up to 2 days in advance for a fast-fix lunch. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Pasta Salad in a Jar
If you're planning a picnic, make this pasta a day ahead. For my husband's lunch at work, I sometimes tie a plastic fork on the jar. —Pat Neiheisel, Leetonia, Ohio
Southwest Hummus Dip
Not your ordinary hummus, this dip is a combination of two things I love—chick peas and Southwestern flavors. You can substitute 3/4 cup frozen corn, thawed, for the grilled corn. —Cheray Buckalew, Cumberland, Maryland
Avocado Fruit Salad with Tangerine Vinaigrette
On long summer days when we just want to relax, I make a cool salad with avocado, berries and mint. The tangerine dressing is refreshingly different. —Carole Resnick, Cleveland, Ohio
Grandma’s Potato Salad
Our Fourth of July feast wouldn't be complete without this chilled old-fashioned potato salad. It's my grandma's treasured recipe. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Snack Mix
I love chocolate-covered strawberries, but that's a treat you want to make only on special occasions. With a little experimenting, I've captured the same incredible flavor in a snack I can take anywhere. Everyone is always amazed when I pull this out at a picnic or tailgate, or on a car trip. —TerryAnn Moore, Vineland, New Jersey
Strawberry Watermelon Lemonade
The nutrition department at my local hospital inspired me to create this refreshing summer sipper. I tweaked their recipe slightly to create this drink full of sweet-tart flavor. —Dawn Lowenstein, Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania
Dill Garden Salad
I love to cut up whatever fresh vegetables I have on hand and toss them with this delicious dressing and fresh dill. This salad shows up on our table regularly during the summer. —Bethany Martin, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania
S'mookies
S'mores are one of my favorite desserts. I wanted to create a cookie to replace the graham cracker—that's when my s'mookie was born. Just as delicious as the classic.—Maria Davis, Hermosa Beach, California
Tuna Artichoke Melts
After sampling a similar open-faced sandwich at a restaurant, I created my own version of lemon-seasoned tuna salad with artichoke hearts. I like to serve it for lunch with a friend on the patio.
Dilly Chicken Sandwiches
A creamy lemon-dill spread adds summery flavor to tender chicken served between slices of grilled French bread with slices of lettuce and tomato. Serve it for lunch, or for a light and breezy dinner on the patio. —Orien Major, Hinton, Alberta
Three-Pepper Coleslaw
There are never any leftovers when I make this dish for a picnic, barbecue or any social gathering. —Priscilla Gilbert, Indian Harbour Beach, Florida
Mango Salad with Mint Yogurt Dressing
An abundant planter full of mint inspired me to create this summery salad. The flavors pair together so well, and really let the freshness of the mint shine. —Natalie Klein, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Italian Submarine
My Italian husband grew up eating this flavorful sandwich, which his mother used to make it after Saturday chores were finished. Put the sub together a few hours ahead and refrigerate, then serve with chips, veggies and dip for a delicious meal. —Christine Lupella, Fifty Lakes, Minnesota
Root Beer Cookies
When it's too difficult to take along root beer floats on a picnic, take these cookies instead! I've found the flavor is even better the next day. The hard part is convincing my family to wait that long before sampling them.—Violette Bawden, West Valley City, Utah
Iced Raspberry Tea
Frozen raspberries lend fruity flavor and lovely color to this pretty iced tea that's good throughout the year. The recipe calls for just a few common ingredients and offers make-ahead convenience. —Lois McGrady, Hillsville, Virginia
Yellow Summer Squash Relish
My friends can barely wait for the growing season to arrive so I can make this incredible squash relish. The color really dresses up a hot dog. —Ruth Hawkins, Jackson, Mississippi
Prosciutto Pinwheels
Fancy-looking and filling, these sensational appetizers are a lot easier to make than they look. With just a few ingredients and our easy directions, it'll be a snap! —Kaitlyn Benito, Everett, Washington
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
As a mother of three sons, sweets are a staple in my kitchen! I buy ripe fruit on sale and freeze it to make this cake. My banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a favorite among loved ones at my family picnics and dinners. —Bonnie Krause, Irvona, Pennsylvania
Broccoli Slaw with Lemon Dressing
Our family absolutely loves broccoli, so I'm so happy there's finally a slaw mix in stores that uses broccoli stems. I like this slaw best after 20 minutes or so to allow the flavors to meld. —Donna Marie Ryan, Topsfield, Massachusetts
Smoked Salmon Egg Salad
Served on croissants, these grown-up sandwiches offer a great way to use leftover Easter eggs. Salmon adds smoky flavor. —Cathy Tang, Redmond, Washington
Margarita Cupcakes
These margarita cupcakes are my most requested recipe. If you are unable to find Key lime juice, you can use regular lime juice. —Kerri McMillan, Sylvester, Georgia
Refrigerator Garden Pickles
Canning isn't necessary for these crisp-tender, tangy pickles. Keep them in the fridge and eat them up within a month. —Linda Chapman, Meriden, Iowa
Quick & Easy Honey Mustard
This fast, easy mustard with rice vinegar and honey has more flavor than any other honey mustard dressing I've ever tried. —Sharon Rehm, New Blaine, Arkansas
Raspberry-Rhubarb Slab Pie
Slab pie is a pastry baked in a jelly-roll pan and cut into slabs like a bar cookie—or a pie bar, if you will. My grandfather was a professional baker and served pieces of slab pie to his customers back in the day. Here is my spin, featuring rhubarb and gorgeous red raspberries. —Jeanne Ambrose, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Strawberry, Cucumber & Honeydew Salad
Strawberries and cucumbers together—I just love this combination! We used to eat a lot of cucumbers growing up in upstate New York. We'd get them, along with strawberries and melons, from fruit and veggie stands to make this sweet and tangy salad. —Melissa Mccabe, Long Beach, California
Cherry Tomato Corn Salad
Brighten a picnic lunch or backyard barbecue with this cheerful, fresh-tasting salad. If you use want to use sweet corn off the cob, saute the corn for 5 minutes in a skillet before adding to the salad. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Fruit Salad with Apricot Dressing
When I serve this lovely refreshing salad for picnics and holidays, the bowl empties fast. —Carol Lambert, El Dorado, Arkansas
Fruity Peanut Butter Pitas
My kids ask for these pita sandwiches all the time. They haven’t noticed that as good as they taste, they’re also good for them. —Kim Holmes, Emerald Park, Saskatchewan
Picnic Bars
You'll score points with your pals when you stir together these delicious fudge-like treats. They're very moist and rich. The chocolate chips and walnuts make a pretty topping. —Frank Bee, Eugene, Oregon
Turkey-Jalapeno Sandwiches
When a turkey sandwich meets modern Thai, it’s a fun mix of classic and trendy food. I love it when my mixing and matching turns out so tasty. —Stacy Mullens, Gresham, Oregon
Greek Deli Kabobs
For an easy Mediterranean-style appetizer, marinate broccoli and mozzarella, then skewer with sweet red peppers and salami. Everybody loves food on a stick! —Vikki Spengler, Ocala, Florida
Hearty Muffuletta
Famous in Louisiana, muffulettas are cold cuts, cheese and olive salad layered into an Italian bread shell. I was happy when a friend and co-worker gave me this recipe so I could make them myself. More than a meal, it’s a dining experience! —Ruth Hayward, Lake Charles, Louisiana
Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad
This pretty spinach salad, topped with grilled chicken, strawberries and almonds, features a delectably sweet poppy seed dressing. Made in moments, it’s a refreshing lunch or light supper for two. —Ginger Ellsworth, Caldwell, Idaho
Fast Macaroni Salad
Chopped veggies provide crunch, and cherry tomatoes add vibrant color to this refreshing and creamy pasta salad. —Frankiee Bush, Freedom, Indiana
Olive-Stuffed Celery
My grandmother taught both me and my mom this appetizer recipe for stuffed celery. We always serve it at Christmas and Thanksgiving. The stuffing is so yummy that even if you don't normally care for the ingredients on their own, you'll love the end result. —Stacy Powell, Santa Fe, Texas
Southern Potato Salad
This potato salad with a southern twist is perfect for a summer picnic. The pickles add extra sweetness. —Gene Pitts, Wilsonville, Alabama
Roasted Curry Chickpeas
We coated chickpeas with simple seasonings to make a low-fat snacking sensation. This chickpea recipe rivals calorie-laden varieties sold in stores. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs
Flaky salmon and creamy sauce go so well over hard-boiled eggs. Drizzle the sauce or serve it on the side; it's great either way. —Marinela Dragan, Portland, Oregon
Mexican Roasted Potato Salad
My husband is the No. 1 fan of this south-of-the-border potato salad. The leftovers make an awesome late-night snack, straight from the fridge. —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Slow-Cooker Party Mix
This mildly seasoned snack mix is always a party favorite. Served warm from a slow cooker, the munchable mixture is very satisfying. —Dana Hughes, Gresham, Oregon
Veggie Brown Rice Wraps
Salsa gives a bit of zip to the brown rice and bean filling in the meatless tortilla wraps. —Lisa Sullivan, St. Marys, Ohio
Chipotle BLT Wraps
BLT sandwiches are so good, but they can make a lot of messy crumbs from the toasted bread. Since we also love wraps, I decided to make BLTs using tortillas instead. Warming the tortillas a little makes them easy to work with. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Fruit Salad in a Pineapple Boat
A sweet, summery treat that looks as good as it tastes! No one, young or old, will be able to resist this healthy fruit salad. —Amy Short, Lesage, West Virginia
PB&J Chex Mix
As a kid, I loved to add crunchy textures, like chips or popcorn, to my PB&J sandwiches. This mix has all the necessary components of that childhood favorite: sweet jelly, rich peanut butter, a little saltiness from peanuts and, finally, that irresistible crunch from the Chex mix. —Shelley Ward, Isle of Palms, South Carolina
Effortless Guacamole
Here’s one delicious, extra-easy classic you’ll turn to again and again. I’ve been making this recipe since I started cooking, and that was a long time ago. —DeAnn Lokvam, Tijeras, New Mexico
Salami & Provolone Pasta Salad
Everyone needs a perfect pasta salad that’s easy to make, especially on busy nights when your family wants a dish that’s fast, light and cool. This is just the thing. —Jill Donley, Warsaw, Indiana
Basil White Bean Dip
We're big fans of hummus, but my son is allergic. I came up with this bean dip, and it’s turned out to be a great alternative. —Erin Bosco, Carlton, Washington
Campers' Coleslaw
Crispy and crunchy, this old family slaw recipe makes a refreshing side dish for picnics and parties. —Kimberly Wallace, Dennison, Ohio
Crispy Snack Mix
This recipe proves you can make just about anything in a slow cooker, even a delightfully crispy snack mix. —Jane Sims, De Leon, Texas
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
My son taught me how to make hummus, which is a tasty and healthy alternative to calorie-filled dips. Fresh roasted red bell peppers make it special. —Nancy Watson-Pistole, Shawnee, Kansas
Sage & Prosciutto Pinwheels
I love, love, love to make appetizers and I especially like this recipe because I can make the rolls ahead, freeze them, and then slice and bake when needed. —Kate Dampier, Quail Valley, California
Lavender Shortbread
Lavender flowers can be used fresh or dried in cooking. The flowers have an intense flavor, so they are best used sparingly.—Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Greendale, Wisconsin
Broccoli Slaw
Here's my favorite twist on broccoli salad. It's so easy to make and has an irresistible tangy crunch. —Konny Thomas, Citrus Heights, California
Stromboli Sandwich
I've made this Stromboli sandwich many times for parties, and it gets great reviews. You can add ingredients and spices to suit your taste. The recipe is so good I just had to share it with you! —Leigh Lauer, Hummelstown, Pennsylvania
Spicy Chunky Salsa
Vinegar adds a refreshing tang to this sweet tomato salsa. It's wonderful as is, but for more heat, leave in some hot pepper seeds. —Donna Goutermont, Sequim, Washington
Buffalo Chicken Wraps
Blue cheese dressing and hot pepper sauce enhance these yummy tortilla wraps. Filled with chicken, cheese, lettuce and tomatoes, these buffalo chicken wraps are colorful, fun to eat...and tote-able, too! —Athena Russell, Florence, South Carolina
Contest-Winning Grilled Mushrooms
Grilled mushrooms always taste good, but this easy recipe makes them taste even more fantastic. As the mother of two children, I love to cook entire meals on the grill. It's fun spending time outdoors with the kids. —Melanie Knoll, Marshalltown, Iowa
Easy Cheese-Stuffed Jalapenos
A few years ago, I saw a man in the grocery store buying a big bag of jalapeno peppers. I asked him what he intended to do with them, and right there in the store he gave me this fabulous recipe for stuffed jalapenos! —Janice Montiverdi, Sugar Land, Texas
Pineapple Chicken Salad Sandwiches
These sandwiches are always welcome at lunchtime around our house. Sweet pineapple and crunchy pecans are nice additions to ordinary chicken salad. —Carol Alexander, Midland, Michigan
Avocado & Artichoke Pasta Salad
A squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of cilantro and a little avocado make this a creamy and zingy pasta salad. —Carrie Farias, Oak Ridge, New JerseyAnd for dessert, end with a summer lovin’ popsicle! You can either use molds to make one of our most refreshing popsicle recipes or fill up one of these Zipsicle pouches ($10 for a 100-pack) with the flavor of your choice. Use a sharpie to write the flavor or a fun, summery message on them.
Tips for Transporting Food
Have a dish that needs to be kept warm? Instead of transporting food into a different container, keep it in the cooking vessel for a laid-back feel. If the cooking dish has a lid and handles—like this beautiful oven-safe skillet from Calphalon—take a flour sack towel or clean dish rag and tie it around to secure. Try it out with this yummy bacon and asparagus frittata.
Famous for your deviled eggs? You don’t need a special container to serve them. Place each egg in a cupcake liner for easy travel. Get all of our favorite recipes for deviled eggs here.
You can also keep a picnic kit at the ready. Stash paper plates, picnic-ready flatware, sunblock and a few outdoor games in a container. When not in use, slip it in your cooler for next time!
Here are a few more ideas:
- Consider packing two containers—a picnic basket for tableware and nonperishable items and a cooler for cold food and beverages.
- Pack your basket in reverse order to make it easy to get at the items you need when you arrive at your picnic site. Place nonperishable food on the bottom, then serving items and tableware, and finally the tablecloth on top.
- No basket? No worries! Load your goodies into a sturdy cardboard box, plastic bin or even a backpack.
- If you’re feeding a lot of people, bring two coolers. Since frequent opening of a cooler allows the cool air to escape, use one for frequently used items such as beverages. Use the second cooler for perishable foods like meats and salads. (These picnic salad ideas are some of our absolute favorites! Try these tasty picnic side dishes, too.)
- Closely estimate how much food your group will eat to avoid leftovers. Unless they can be kept very cold or very hot, leftovers of perishable items should be thrown away.
- Save extra condiment packets from fast-food restaurants to bring along on your picnic—the packs are ideal for easy outdoor meals.
- Bring along plastic bags to cart home dirty dishes and silverware, and for garbage in case there are no trash barrels at the picnic site.
Don’t forget any of these items to pack for every picnic.
How to Keep Your Food Cool
Cold sandwiches, chilled salads and icy beverages really hit the spot on warm days. To ensure these items stay cool—and safe to eat—remember these rules:
- Cold foods should be kept at 40°F or colder.
- When packing a cooler, it should be about 25% ice and 75% food. Place ice on the bottom and along the sides of the cooler. Then place the heaviest and most perishable foods on top of the ice. Fill in with lighter items.
- Transfer chilled foods directly from the refrigerator to the cooler. Don’t use the cooler to chill warm or room temperature items.
- A full cooler will stay colder longer than one that is partially empty, so choose an appropriate sized cooler. If food doesn’t completely fill your cooler, add more ice.
- Large pieces of ice melt more slowly than ice cubes. If you plan to be gone awhile, use chunks of ice instead of ice cubes. Simply fill clean empty milk cartons with water and freeze.
- To protect your cooler from the sun’s rays, place it in the shade as soon as you arrive at your picnic spot.
- When setting out chilled salads or other cold foods, consider placing the serving containers in a larger pan filled with ice to keep them cold.
- Avoid packing mayonnaise and ice cream-based dishes that can turn bad or melt in the sun.
- Here are a few more tips for how to keep your food cool outdoors.
After going to all this trouble of keeping your food fresh and safe to eat, the last thing you’d want is for ants to enjoy the meal instead of your family. Here’s a foolproof way to stop them in their tracks: Place a plastic container on the bottom of each picnic table leg. Fill with water. The ants won’t be able to crawl past!
Grilling Tips
While subs and other sandwiches are common alfresco fare, grilled foods are popular, too. Get inspiration from our top grilling recipes. If you plan to cook meats such as chicken, steak, hamburgers or hot dogs at your picnic site, heed these helpful hints:
- Wrap raw meat, poultry or fish separately from cooked foods in airtight plastic containers or resealable plastic bags.
- Freeze meats before packing so they remain cold longer. This is especially important if you must travel a long distance to the picnic location or if the foods won’t be grilled immediately upon arrival.
- Do not partially cook foods at home to speed up cooking at the picnic site; bacteria grows faster in partially cooked foods.
- Hot foods should be kept at 140°F or hotter and should be eaten within 2 hours of being cooked.
Margarita Chicken
You're going to be drinking margaritas this summer anyway, so why not take it a step further? By marinating your chicken in margarita mix, you get a really nice lime flavor that's enhanced with garlic.
Kentucky Grilled Chicken
Kentucky Fried Chicken? What about Kentucky grilled chicken! The basting sauce is a simple combination of Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce that's the perfect complement to any outdoor meal.
Gourmet Burgers with Sun-Dried Tomato
Guests will never see this coming! The goat cheese filling in these burgers is a pleasant and refreshing surprise. In comparison to American cheeseburgers, these really do feel gourmet!
Grilled Corn in Husks
You know it's summer when you can finally enjoy a nice corn on the cob. No need for anything crazy; some butter and parmesan are enough to make this side dish a masterpiece.
Feta Salmon Salad
This simple grilled salmon salad is a whole meal. The light but effective spice blend brings out a garlic and ginger flavor. It all comes together beautifully on a bed of spring mix salad!
Steak Sandwiches with Crispy Onions
Steak with a chimichurri-inspired mayo sauce and a side of onion crisps sounds like a delightful meal. But all of that combined in a sandwich with a side of fries sounds even better! This mouth watering sandwich is a grill master's dream lunch.
Grilled Caesar Chicken Breasts
Marinated overnight in creamy Caesar dressing, this chicken is tender and full of flavor. This easy grilled recipe is as good as it gets!
The Best Grilled Sirloin Tip Roast
This lean but flavorful meat is going to be the star of your next cookout! You won't regret trying it with the optional horseradish-thyme butter.
Fresh Corn & Arugula Salad
This colorful salad is a breath of fresh air. As decorative as it is delicious, you'll find yourself making this over and over again in the summer.
Salmon Grilled in Foil
Tin foil grilling isn't exactly a new technique, but this curry salmon will make you feel like you've been doing it wrong this whole time! The flaky fish is best served with potatoes or a nice salad.
Grilled Elote Flatbread
Here's a topping you haven't thought of! This fun twist on a classic Mexican dish will be your go-to snack of the summer.
Grilled Romaine Salad
You can grill a steak so why shouldn't you be able to grill a salad? The simple dressing really sends it over the top.
Grilled Onion & Skirt Steak Tacos
Thinking about a steak taco is enough to make your mouth water. But thinking about these beer marinated tacos is enough to get you up and on your way to the store! Use leftover meat for quesadillas the next day.
Dry-Rub Grilled Pork Chops over Cannellini Greens
The bean salad alone is its own meal. The pork chops are just extra! The herby dry rub really sets this recipe apart.
Grilled Chicken Salad
Never underestimate the power of a good salad. This perfect picnic meal will be your summer showstopper!
Halibut Soft Tacos
These halibut tacos are almost too pretty to eat! The sweet and spicy mango salsa will have you looking up what else you can put it on. Spoiler alert: it doubles as a nice salad dressing.
Grilled Flank Steak
This sweet and tangy marinade is used for both the veggies and meat. You'll find yourself coming back to this recipe, especially when you have company coming over.
Brined Grilled Turkey Breast
This sweet and spicy turkey is super moist. The flavors are subtle, but present enough where you'll think of this recipe even around Thanksgiving.
Grilled Mahi Mahi
Want a change of pace at your next cookout? Grill up this mahi mahi with tropical fruit salsa and watch as everyone asks for the recipe. It's sweet, tangy and delicious!
Beef ‘n’ Pork Burgers
Adding pork to your burgers is a grill master's best kept secret. The bacon really drives home the smokiness.
The Best Baby Back Ribs
They're the best for a reason! The zesty ribs are always what you need them to be: tender, flavorful and great for a party.Chicken Strawberry Spinach Salad
This sweet poppy seed dressing is everything you want in a salad and more. The grilled chicken, strawberries and almonds are the perfect combination of savory, sweet and crunchy!
Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus makes a perfect side dish for grilled meats. It's ready in just 20 minutes and has a nice barbecue sauce taste.
Grilled Chorizo and Shrimp Paella
This easy shrimp and chorizo paella is a must have this summer. The mango and lime give it a tangy flavor that goes along perfectly with the grilled chicken sausage. You won't want to miss out on this colorful meal.
Artichoke Steak Wraps
Ready in just 30 minutes, these artichoke steak wraps are a must have! Artichokes are rarely the main event in a meal, but these wraps will have you second guessing that notion.
Lemon-Dijon Grilled Salmon Foil Packet
This tin foil salmon is a winner! With almost no clean up, you can just focus on stocking up your pantry for the next time you make this lemony dish.
Easy Grilled Corn with Chipotle-Lime Butter
You had us at easy! This Memorial Day corn has a wonderful flavor with only five ingredients! If you're not a fan of cilantro, parsley is the perfect replacement.
Grilled Steak Tacos
Summer goes hand in hand with steak tacos. But this recipe ranks amongst the best. With a spicy aioli and ribeye meat, you can't ask for better!
Grilled Fruit Phyllo Tart
Fruit salad on a flaky crust? Don't mind if we do! The sweet cream cheese and lemon flavor on such a colorful spread makes it the perfect addition to any summer table.
California Burger Wraps
Burgers can sometimes seem heavy, but these wraps are completely void of that feeling. With fresh ingredients and a lettuce wrapping, you won't miss the bread at all!
Bratwurst and Chicken Kabobs
You can get the best of both worlds with these double meat kabobs! The chutney packs a bit of heat with the pepper jelly.
Aloha Burgers
Burgers and fruit might just be your new go-to debate topic. As for us, we can't get enough of it! These Hawaiian-inspired burgers are smoky from the bacon but fresh from the pineapple. See for yourself!
Grilled Bruschetta
This appetizer is perfect at any party. It's the right amount of sophistication while still remaining simple. It'll really dress up a table!
Martha’s Fish Tacos
All hail Martha! These tacos are light but filling. The best part is you can serve them hot or cold.
Big John’s Chili-Rubbed Ribs
You can't go a whole summer without ribs. It's impossible! So why not just have the best of the best? Now we don't know Big John personally, but we'd love to thank him for this Asian-inspired recipe.
Cajun Grilled Shrimp
This Cajun marinade is made spicy with cayenne pepper. That heat is cut through with the lemons for an explosion of flavor. You'll find yourself coming back to this recipe for sure.
Grilled Pork and Poblano Peppers
This spice-rubbed pork is not for the faint of heart. It's a party in your mouth and a party at your table! Guests will request you make it every cookout.
Grilled Lobster Tails
Lobster tails aren't reserved for restaurants. And they're easier to make than you think! If you find yourself ordering lobster out a lot, give this recipe a spin.
Grilled Stone Fruits with Balsamic Syrup
A balsamic glaze can turn any dish from good to great. Well, maybe not any but a case can be written for salads and toast and fruit and huh, maybe that is everything. The grilled fruit practically melts in your mouth. So what are you waiting for!
Grilled Pattypans
If you've never tried pattypan squash, now is the time! This side dish will change the way you think about fruits and veggies and how they can come together.
Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Salsa Mole
Chocolate, cherries and pork? Say no more! The hint of spice in this dish is drool inducing.
Grilled Veggie Pizza
If you have any leftover veggies on hand, toss them together on a veggie pizza. It's a fun lunch—or even dinner—for the whole family!
Lime and Dill Chimichurri Shrimp
This lime and dill chimichurri shrimp has a brighter flavor than other chimichurri dishes. This makes it all the more enticing for summer cookouts.
Grilled Italian Sausage Sandwiches
If you're in the mood for Italian, you've come to the right sandwich. This meal might seem more laid back but that's exactly what makes it perfect for a hot summer day.
Spiced Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Butter
Once you've had cilantro lime butter, you'll immediately start wondering what other amazing butter flavors you might've missed out on. The spiced chicken is nothing short of a crowd pleaser.
Easy Grilled Squash
This recipe is as simple as it gets. With produce, it's best to just bask in the natural flavors and that's exactly what this side dish highlights.
Shrimp ‘n’ Scallops Tropical Salad
This zippy fruit salad is cut through with smoky shrimp and scallops. If you love seafood, you'll love this salad!
Steak Sandwich Kabobs
There's nothing more fun than putting food on a stick. With bread, steak, peppers, onion and cheese, you can enjoy a whole meal on the go!
Cedar Plank Salmon with Blackberry Sauce
This salmon is a nice balance of sweet, smoky and spicy. Maybe you've never thought about salmon and fruits before this moment, but now you'll only wish you'd thought of it sooner.
Grilled Basil Chicken and Tomatoes
This quick basil chicken comes together with tomatoes to make a dish reminiscent of a deconstructed salad. The recipe is simple, easy and perfect for a busy weeknight.
Grilled Angel Food Cake with Strawberries
This patriotic dessert introduces our favorite summer ingredient, balsamic vinegar, to the world of desserts. After trying this cake you'll really believe an angel made it.
Lemony Shrimp & Tomatoes
Lemon and shrimp go together like peanut butter and jelly. This quick marinade makes for a great lunch on the go!
Grilled Huli Huli Chicken
This overnight marinated Hawaiian chicken is well worth the wait. With brown sugar, ginger and soy sauce, you can use this marinade for anything!
Tacos on a Stick
These taco kabobs are as fun to assemble as they are to eat! A sour cream dipping sauce is must.
Mango & Grilled Chicken Salad
When it's hot out, you want nothing more than to bite into a juicy piece of fruit. This mango chicken salad gives all of that and more with added crunch from the snap peas.
Beef Suya
Suya is a spiced skewer dish from West Africa, namely Nigeria. This more mild, but still spicy, version pays homage to the peanut and ginger present in a more traditional beef suya.
Grilled Vegetable Platter
You really can't go wrong with grilled veggies. This simple honey and balsamic vinegar marinade proves once again that balsamic vinegar is the secret to a great cookout.
Cola Burgers
People soak their meat in sodas all the time so why not just put it in a sauce? French salad dressing and cola meet to make a smash hit!
Grilled Honey-Balsamic Glazed Fruit
Sweet and salty lovers unite! We might have just found your new favorite dessert. Peaches with honey and balsamic vinegar is the best way to end a barbecue.
Easy Marinated Grilled Flank Steak
This three-ingredient marinade will be your new go-to for steak. You probably already have the ingredients in your pantry!
Barbecued Chicken Pizzas
Barbecue sauce on pizza just makes sense. These pizzas are perfect for when you're in a rush to plan a menu, but still want something that'll knock it out of the park. They're smoky, tangy and a sure-fire favorite to all who try them.
Grilled Chicken and Mango Skewers
These skewers bring all the best flavors of summer together. This colorful plate is as Instagram-worthy as it is tasty.
Fresh Artichokes with Lemon-Yogurt Dip
Artichokes are made to be enjoyed simply and with this tangy lemon-yogurt dip you can do just that. The perfect appetizer for an epic cookout, you won't want to underestimate the veggie again.
Grilled Peach, Rice & Arugula Salad
One reviewer wrote that she'd give the recipe 10 stars if she could, and we couldn't agree more! This summer salad is not a want but a need. The grilled peaches are an impeccable touch.
Hawaiian Beef Sliders
You wear a jacket when it's cold just like you eat pineapple when it's hot. And what better way to enjoy it than in one of these dynamite burgers? They're sweet and savory with a nice kick from the jalapeños.
Ginger Salmon with Cucumber Lime Sauce
We're always looking for more ways to dress up salmon. And you can't disappoint with lime and ginger! This winning combination is well seasoned and colorful.
Beef and Blue Cheese Penne with Pesto
This 30-minute pasta is light and refreshing. Filled with fresh flavors, it’s as healthy as it is hearty.
Grilled Figgy Pies
A figgy pie is exactly as it sounds: a combination of figs, maple, walnuts and creamy mascarpone. These hand held pies will go fast!
Key West Flank Steak
Anyone from Florida knows you can't have a steak without onions and lime. Even better if it's served with a side of rice and fried plantains.
Bacon & Swiss Chicken Sandwiches
This chicken sandwich is restaurant quality! And just when you thought it couldn't get any better, you can make extra honey mustard on the side for dipping.
Grilled Brussels Sprouts
I don't know about you, but I'm feeling like I could eat all four servings of these kabobs myself! The Brussels sprouts and peppers are light with a bit of a kick.
Cake & Berry Campfire Cobbler
You know what cookouts need more of? Desserts! This cobbler is the best way to close out the night.
Chicken Skewers with Cool Avocado Sauce
The slightly hot chipotle-lime chicken skewers cool down immediately with the avocado sauce. The sauce is creamy and addictive!
California Burger Bowls
Like Chipotle, you can choose whether to have your burgers as is or in a bowl. The difference is that in a bowl you can really load them up! Veggies and even fruit can adorn your hamburger bowl.
Grilled Sausage-Basil Pizzas
These little pizzas will change the way you plan a cookout. Made on flatbreads or naan, they're fun for the whole family. So go as crazy as you want with toppings!
Grilled Jerk Shrimp Orzo Salad
Starting with the orzo and ending with the shrimp, this salad has everything we love! It's easy, delicious and made with any veggies and meats that you have on hand.
Tarragon Asparagus
Asparagus is an underrated veggie that rarely sees new ways to eat it. Until now! This tarragon-honey marinade is exactly the change of pace we were looking for.
Honey Chipotle Ribs
These honey chipotle ribs are lip-smacking good! The sauce can be made up to a week in advance for the perfect grilling experience.
Stuffed Grilled Zucchini
These zucchini boats are stuffed with cheese, garlic, onion and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect accompaniment to your favorite grilled meat!
Tomato, Avocado and Grilled Corn Salad
Something about this salad feels like laying on the beach. It's refreshing, it's warm and it feels like summer!
Chicken Alfredo with Grilled Apples
You wouldn't normally think that Alfredo and apples go together but once you try it you won't go back.
Sweet Sriracha Wings
These sweet and hot wings are going to make a splash at your next outdoor party. They're made sweet with orange juice and honey. It sounds unlikely but somehow makes perfect sense!
Cilantro Lime Shrimp
This garlic and lime marinade will wow at your next cookout. The flavor is spot on and the preparation is easy enough to add it into your meal rotation.
Chicken and Zucchini Foil Packs
You can make this foil wrapped dinner with any vegetables you have on hand. But over the summer, we can't resist a zucchini dinner! It's nice and simple with the tomato paste giving it a spaghetti sauce flavor.
Honey-Mustard Brats
This honey mustard is given an extra bite with mayo and steak sauce. The quickly assembled brats make for a simple but unforgettable meal.
Bruschetta from the Grill
You can't go wrong with this five-star recipe! Dijon mustard, mayonnaise and oregano make a magical spread.
Lemon Garlic Mushrooms
These lemony grilled mushrooms might take some of the spotlight off the main course. They're just that good! Skewers ensure that they're grilled to perfection.
Jalapeno Popper Mexican Street Corn
Combine your two favorite summer snacks in one with this jalapeño popper corn! It's the BOGO you've been waiting for with all the crunch and spice you could ask for.
Crab & Shrimp Stuffed Sole
Turn your cookout into a five-star restaurant with this seafood stuffed sole. Just add a salad and baguette, and you're all set.
Grilled Chicken Salad with Blueberry Vinaigrette
You've seen peaches on burgers and mangoes in salsas, get ready for the best of the best. This contest-winning blueberry vinaigrette will change the way you view fruit in salads.
Grilled Cabbage
You'll be surprised by how good this is. Gone are the days of begging your kids to eat their veggies. With this on the side, their plates will be cleared!
Grilled Southwestern Potato Salad
This potato salad is the best side dish for some classic steak tacos. With sour cream, corn and lime, it has a nice pop to go with your Tex-Mex dinner.
Spicy Grilled Eggplant
This Cajun grilled eggplant is the most versatile dish of the season. It pairs well with any meat and takes up way more space than your average veggies.
Grilled Apple Tossed Salad
Apples and bleu cheese? Yes please! This salad is a beautiful storm of crunchy, sweet and savory toppings. The balsamic dressing is the glue that ties it all together.
Grilled Steak and Mushroom Salad
Steak and mushrooms are an unbeatable combination. This light dinner is packed with protein while still tasting like a vinegar-Dijon dream. If you enjoyed this, then you must try our favorite vegetarian grilling recipes.
Bratwurst Supper
Looking for a cozy campfire dinner? Well look no further! This all-in-one meal is made special with a secret ingredient: love! Just kidding, it's an onion soup packet. But close enough, right?
Fruit ‘n’ Cake Kabobs
We love grilling and we love cake. So grilled cake has to be a stroke of genius, right? These fruit and pound cake kabobs are everything you didn't know you were missing.
Burger Americana
Ever had peanut butter and bacon on a burger? What about coleslaw? Try out any toppings that strike your fancy with these versatile, everyday burgers.
Grilled Salmon Packets
This salmon is a whole meal in a foil package. With peppers and simple seasoning, the result is a quick weeknight dinner your family will crave.
Grilled Loaded Potato Rounds
Meet your new go-to recipe for outdoor potlucks! These easy sides can be topped with anything you like on your baked potatoes.Can’t swing a recipe? Outdoor eats don’t always have to be from scratch. For dining in a dash, choose cold deli chicken, crusty bread, fresh fruit and a wedge of cheese. If you have a few minutes to spare, assemble a lunch of savory turkey subs, chilled salad skewers and sweet home-baked treats. Want to elevate store-bought fare? Learn the cheese board styling secrets that will impress your friends.
More Fun Picnic Ideas
Equipped with the above tips and a packed picnic basket, you’re ready to go. All that’s left is choosing a place to spread out your portable feast. Consider the banks of a nearby lake or stream, a local park or a shady spot in your own backyard. Then sit back, relax and enjoy a picture-perfect picnic with these fun ideas:
- Make getting to the picnic a scavenger hunt. Leave clues or a “treasure” map for your family to find their way to the picnic destination.
- Bring along a board game, bocce ball, a softball and catcher’s mitt or a Frisbee for some outdoor fun. If kids will be joining you, try to pick a park with a playground nearby.
- Plan a hike and bring the picnic with you. Stop when you get hungry or find a scenic spot to eat.
- Set the mood with a sunset picnic. If it’s allowed, bring a few votive candles and a small bouquet of flowers to add to the ambience.
- Consider packing a picnic for others, whether it’s for your kids in the backyard, your neighbors next door or even a coworker in need of some lunchtime fun.
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Originally Published: April 22, 2019
