The sun is shining, breeze is blowing, flowers blooming in full force - summertime is here and we're soaking it in through every way possible. While we love our time spent outdoors adventuring and being active, sometimes it's nice to set out a blanket, surround yourself in good company, and enjoy a moment of stillness.
There is not wrong way to picnic, in the park or your own backyard, get out and chow down on any of these 12 perfect summer picnic recipes for a surefire stellar time.
...
Photo credit: Paleo Grubs
1. Classic Chicken Salad with Homemade Paleo Mayo
Nothing like a cold and refreshing chicken salad sandwich to help fuel the picnic fun. Packed with lean protein and healthy fats from a creamy homemade paleo mayo dressing, this recipe will keep your appetite satisfied for the long run. Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: Cooking Classy
1. The Best Fruit Salad Recipe
Is it really a picnic without a fruit salad involved? We don't think so. There's more than what meets the eye with this salad as it has a fun honey lime dressing to spice up your fruits! There's no wrong way to go about fruit salad, but this is one of our favorites. Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: Downshiftology
6. Herbed Chevre, Spinach, and Smoked Salmon Pinwheel
Whether you're going for a more fancy picnic vibe or a chill snacky picnic, these pinwheels are full of flavor and demand to be included! Take your picnic to the next level with these easy and healthy paleo pinwheels that everyone will surely fall in love with. Each bite is a flavor sensation. Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: Veronika's Kitchen
3. No-Bake Brownie Bites
Picnic desserts are a must, but only those with minimal clean up are the real winners. These mini brownie bites are perfect on-the-go fuel, are easy to make, and even easier to clean up (just lick your fingers!). Naturally sweetened and full of clean fuel, it's a win-win. Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: Slender Kitchen
4. Southwestern Sweet Potato, Kale, and Quinoa Salad
Salads are the perfect picnic pairing as they're packed with nutrients and so easy to prepare. This salad is filled with veggie nutrients and protein that is sure to please everyone. The best part is the creamy avocado lime dressing to take flavors to a whole new level. Find the full recipe here.
…
Photo credit: Recipe Runner
5. Watermelon Salad with Cucumber and Feta
Watermelon is the epitome of summertime and no picnic is complete without it. A little more effort goes a long way and this salad is proof of that. Sweet and juicy watermelon paired with fresh mint, crisp cucumber, and salty feta - a combination made in heaven. Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: Paleo Running Momma
7. Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
Something about sunshine and citrus just go really well together in our opinion. Thus, why not bring lemon poppy seed muffins on your next picnic date? These muffins are sweetened naturally with a little raw honey and are the perfect paleo snack. Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: NeighborFood
8. Black Bean and Corn Salsa
Being from Texas, we're including salsa at every occasion we can. Black bean and corn salsa is a great addition to any picnic as it adds lots of color and flavor to any spread. This recipe is simple, but the mixture of flavors pair so perfectly together it's really a winner in our books. Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: The Simple Veganista
9. Roasted Red Pepper + Hummus + Avocado Sandwich
Another classic picnic attendee, the one and only sandwich. This isn't just any sandwich though - loaded with a hummus AND an avocado layer, plus layers of veggies in between makes this one unbeatable sammy. Customize the recipe to your liking and you're all set to go! Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: Radiant Rachels
10. Mango Basil Summer Rolls with Spicy Almond Butter Sauce
Something about these little guys screams summertime to us. Maybe it's the colors or the fresh ingredients, but we're not fighting our attraction. This recipe is light and pairs perfectly with fresh fruit and a little dessert side action. Not to mention, they're incredibly aesthetically appealing. Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: She Wears Many Hats
11. Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs
If you're at a park with grills or happen to have a portable one of your own, take full advantage of it! A picnic with a little grilling action is the best kind. These little sticks are stacked with layers of real ingredients and complimentary flavors that will make your picnic spread one to remember. Find the full recipe here.
...
Photo credit: Jessica Gavin
12. Summer Fruit Salad with Peach Dressing
Fruit salad, but make add a little veggie flair. This recipe is great for getting in some extra greens while still enjoying the sweetness of summertime fruit. Not only are there fruits and veggies, but plenty of healthy fats from the walnuts and feta cheese. And of course, can't forget the refreshing peach dressing to top it all off. Find the full recipe here.
