Bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones with our mouth-watering picnic side dishes that are sure to be the highlight of your summer gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these easy and delicious recipes will make your next picnic a memorable one. Summer is the perfect time to host a picnic or barbecue, and what’s better than impressing your friends with your culinary skills?
These side dishes are not only scrumptious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal addition to your picnic lunch. Whether you’re in charge of bringing a side dish or dessert, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive list of recipes. From refreshing salads and savory pastas to sweet treats like cookies, our collection has something for everyone. So why settle for ordinary when you can make your next picnic an extraordinary experience?
Choose from any of these recipes and get ready to wow your friends with your cooking skills.
25 Summer Picnic Side Dish Recipes We Adore
Chicken Waldorf Salad
Just when we think we’ve exhausted all possibilities for picnic side dishes, along comes the timeless classic – Waldorf salad. Its signature ingredients include juicy chicken chunks, luscious grapes, crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, refreshing celery, and creamy mayonnaise, each adding their own unique twist to the mix. What sets this particular recipe apart is not just the sum of its parts, but how they come together in perfect harmony – a true culinary masterstroke!
Whether served on its own or paired with a bed of lettuce for added crunch, it’s also worth considering turning the entire salad into a vegetarian burrito by wrapping it in a tortilla. Whatever your approach, one thing is certain: this Waldorf salad will leave your taste buds utterly delighted and begging for more.
Ambrosia Fruit Salad
Elevating the humble salad game with another showstopper – Ambrosia fruit salad, a delightful concoction of mandarin oranges, pineapple, marshmallows, coconut, and whipped cream. Initially, as a kid, I was skeptical about trying it, given its unusual mix of ingredients, but one bite was all it took for me to become hooked. The name ‘Ambrosia’ is aptly chosen, as this salad truly is divine, boasting an incredible balance of sweet, tangy, rich, and creamy flavors that leave you wanting more.
Green Bean Salad
Taking center stage at many summer barbecues is a simple yet delectable salad featuring green beans and juicy tomatoes as its main stars. This salad’s harmonious balance of textures and flavors has earned it a spot on the plates of burger enthusiasts, kabob aficionados, and fans of grilled meats alike.
The delightful combination of crunchy green beans and plump tomatoes is further elevated by the tangy zip of fresh herbs and a zesty vinaigrette dressing, leaving everyone eager to take another bite. What’s more, the vibrant colors of this salad make it almost too visually appealing to eat – the rich red hue of the tomatoes beautifully contrasting with the emerald green beans.
Ramen Salad
Many people may be surprised to learn that Ramen salad is actually a popular dish originating from the Midwestern region of the United States. Its widespread recognition across the country is a testament to its unique flavor profile and refreshing texture. This delectable creation not only tastes great but also offers numerous health benefits, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious meal.
The salad typically consists of shredded cabbage, almonds, mandarin oranges, uncooked ramen noodles, and a creamy dressing, setting it apart from traditional coleslaw recipes. Initially, I was perplexed by the inclusion of raw ramen in the salad, but after giving it a try, I understood why this ingredient is so integral to the dish’s success. The crunch provided by the uncooked noodles adds an extraordinary contrast to the salad, elevating its overall flavor and texture.
It’s no wonder why Ramen salad has become a beloved favorite among many food enthusiasts.
Strawberry Butter
Undoubtedly, one of the most exciting recipes I’ve come across is strawberry butter. Even if you’re not planning any upcoming gatherings or events, it’s worth giving it a try. The combination of rich, creamy butter and fresh strawberries with powdered sugar creates a truly unique and scrumptious flavor profile that will elevate your bread game to new heights.
If you think regular butter on toast is already perfect as it stands, wait until you experience the sweet and refreshing twist that this strawberry butter brings. Bread has never tasted better!
Mexican Bean Salad
Gathering inspiration for a delicious and nutritious vegan salad can be a challenge, but we’ve got you covered with this vibrant Mexican bean salad recipe! This incredible dish is packed with three distinct types of beans – black beans, red kidney beans, and white cannellini beans – creating a stunning visual effect. But that’s not all; the addition of crunchy red bell peppers, spicy jalapenos, sweet onions, and creamy avocado takes this salad to the next level!
The star of the show is undoubtedly the tangy cilantro-lime dressing that brings everything together, combining an array of flavors and textures for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Chocolate Strawberry Dessert Kabobs
Dessert lovers rejoice, because these sweet kabobs are about to take your taste buds on a wild ride! While traditional kabobs are made of savory meats and veggies, these special treats are a game-changer. Brownies, fresh strawberries, and fluffy marshmallows are expertly threaded onto skewers and then drizzled with rich hot fudge sauce. The result is a dessert so divine that it’s almost too pretty to eat – but don’t worry, you won’t be able to resist taking a bite!
One of the best things about these sweet kabobs is how easy they are to make. Simply grab some store-bought brownies (you can use any brand or flavor you like!), gather your ingredients, and start skewering. It’s that simple!
Pineapple Coleslaw
Known for its vibrant colors and rich flavors, coleslaw can be elevated to new heights with a simple yet effective addition – crushed pineapples! The sweetness of the fruit perfectly complements the savory taste of the slaw, creating an irresistible flavor combination that will leave you wanting more. Not only does the pineapple add a touch of sweetness, but it also brings a refreshing texture contrast to the dish, making each bite a delightful experience.
For those who have yet to try adding pineapple to their coleslaw, now is the perfect time to experiment with this match made in heaven! The combination of sweet, crunchy, tangy, and creamy elements creates a truly unforgettable taste sensation that will leave you coming back for more.
Mac and Cheese
When it comes to party food, few options are as universally loved as macaroni and cheese. But, this time around, I’m not just talking about the classic dish – I’m introducing you to its bite-sized cousins: mac and cheese bites! Warning: these indulgent treats have a way of hooking you from the very first bite, leaving you craving for more. If you’re looking for a guaranteed showstopper at your next gathering, look no further.
They boast the same rich, creamy, and cheesy flavors as their traditional counterpart, but with an added advantage – they’re irresistibly cute. Who can resist a dish that’s almost too adorable to eat? What sets them apart from regular mac and cheese is the way each piece gets perfectly toasted on the outside, forming a delightful golden brown crust. This adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to every bite, making it a match made in heaven for anyone with a taste for comfort food.
Mini-Burritos
Taking a cue from the trend of downsizing, let’s consider creating mini burritos that pack just as much flavor as their larger counterparts. Typically, these smaller versions are often misconceived to be less flavorful, but rest assured that they can hold their own. While the ingredient list may be shorter, the three essential components – along with the tortilla – will still provide an authentic taste experience.
In fact, I firmly believe that mini-burritos have a unique advantage over regular burritos: with each bite, you’ll get to enjoy more tender and delicate layers of tortillas.
Mini-Fruit Tarts
Holding the attention of food enthusiasts with its elegant presentation, these mini-tarts are a symphony of textures and flavors. The crunch of the buttery pastry crust provides an excellent base for the fluffy whipped cream that’s generously loaded with fresh fruits. A medley of seasonal fruits such as mangoes, bananas, or berries pairs perfectly with the creamy sweetness of the whipped cream, creating a match made in heaven.
Meanwhile, the contrasting textures of the crunchy pastry and the softness of the fruit and cream come together to create an unforgettable culinary experience.
Mini-Fruit Pizzas
Needless to say, dessert pizzas have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason – they’re creative, colorful, and surprisingly delicious. Here, we’ll explore a unique take on this trend: fruit pizzas that are almost too pretty to eat! Firstly, the base of these sweet treats is not your average pizza crust, but rather sweet sugar cookies. This twist adds an extra layer of indulgence to what’s already a decadent dessert.
Next up is the cream cheese frosting, made from a simple combination of softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. The result is a rich and creamy topping that perfectly complements the sweetness of the fruit. One of the best things about these make-your-own pizzas is that you can customize them to your heart’s content – load up with bananas, kiwi, berries, mangoes, or any other fruits that take your fancy!
Together, these humble ingredients come together to create something truly special: a visually stunning and mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Cheese Dip
Giving your snack time a boost of flavor has never been easier. If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate cheese dip to pair with your favorite bag of chips, look no further. This indulgent recipe requires only 5 minutes of blending and is ready to be devoured. To make it, simply combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and dijon mustard in a food processor until smooth.
The result is an incredibly rich, creamy, and cheesy dip that’s impossible to resist – you might just find yourself craving it on its own! So go ahead, grab a spoon, and indulge in this delicious treat. Don’t worry, I won’t judge your snacking habits.
No-Bake Cookies
Taking a break from traditional baking, I stumbled upon a game-changing recipe that has revolutionized my approach to cookie-making. Gone are the days of slaving away over a hot oven; with this no-bake solution, I can indulge in freshly baked treats without breaking a sweat. Cookies that defy the conventional wisdom of requiring an oven? It’s true! At first, I was skeptical when I came across this recipe, but curiosity got the better of me and I decided to give it a shot.
What I discovered was nothing short of magic. With just a handful of ingredients – oatmeal, peanut butter, cocoa powder, milk, sugar, butter, and vanilla – I can whip up super-rich, chewy, and chocolatey cookies in under 20 minutes! Needless to say, these no-bake treats have become my go-to dessert for potlucks and impromptu gatherings. They’re possibly the easiest indulgence you’ll ever make, and the best part? No baking required!
Tater Tots
Take your snacking experience to the next level by trying out these home-made tater tots. The result is a game-changer – you’ll never go back to store-bought again after indulging in their irresistible taste. Not only do they surpass store-bought alternatives in terms of flavor, but they’re also incredibly easy to prepare. One of the reasons for this ease is that no specialized ingredients or equipment are required.
In fact, a simple cheese grater is all you need to shred the potatoes with minimal effort. When combined with an assortment of herbs and seasonings, and then fried until golden brown, these tater tots achieve a delightful balance of crunch and flavor, making them almost impossible to resist.
Cheesy Chorizo Bites
Among the enticing combination of sweet, savory, and smoky chorizo, rich and salty cream cheese, and sharp cheddar cheese, lies a delectable treat that is hard to resist. A delicious marriage of flavors comes together in these mouth-watering bites, featuring crisp and flaky puff pastry stuffed with chorizo, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. These indulgent little morsels are so good, you’ll struggle to stop at just one.
The simplicity of the recipe makes it all the more appealing, requiring only a few ingredients: crescent rolls, chorizo, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. Simply fill the rolls with the filling and bake until golden brown – a process that yields the most irresistible bites!
Lemon Coconut Bites
Keeping with the citrus-infused trend, these lemon and coconut cookies offer a refreshing twist on traditional flavors. The tangy sweetness of lemons pairs beautifully with the richness of coconuts, creating a delightful harmony that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. With their soft, moist texture and perfect balance of flavors, these bites are truly irresistible.
BBQ Baked Beans
Naturally, a dish that combines the rich flavors of beans, beef, and barbeque sauce is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its appeal lies in its harmonious balance of sweet, smoky, and savory notes, creating a truly spectacular taste experience that can warm even the coldest of hearts. One spoonful is enough to transport you to a world of comfort and tranquility, making it the ultimate go-to food for those seeking solace and satisfaction.
Whether you’re hosting a casual picnic or just need a quick fix, these mouth-watering beans are sure to hit the spot. What’s more, unlike traditional recipes that often require hours of preparation time, this one is remarkably quick and easy, with only 40 minutes needed from start to finish.
Tomato Cheese Bread
Piled high with flavors, this indulgent dish boasts tender, moist bread smothered in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with melted cheese and subtle tang of mayo, all baked to a golden brown perfection. The vibrant red tomatoes on top add a pop of color and a burst of sweetness that beautifully counterbalances the intense umami flavor of the sauce. With each bite, the harmony of flavors is truly delightful.
Macaroni Salad
Bring your gatherings to life with a side dish that’s sure to impress – macaroni salad. This classic recipe gets an extra boost from a rich and tangy dressing, elevating its flavor profile. A mix of firm elbow pasta, hard-boiled eggs, crunchy red peppers, sweet pickle relish, and caramelized onions come together in perfect harmony. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only basic cooking skills and a few simple ingredients.
Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Known for its unorthodox combination of flavors, pretzels, cream cheese, and strawberry jello come together in a truly majestic treat. This dish defies traditional expectations by being far from a salad, instead boasting a sinful dessert persona in square form. Breaking it down, the crust is constructed using crushed pretzels, brown sugar, and butter, providing an instantly recognizable rich, buttery, sweet, and savory taste experience.
The filling plays off this base with a harmonious blend of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and strawberries. This simplicity belies the depth of flavor that ultimately makes for a phenomenal dessert. Lastly, the topping adds a delightful touch in the form of strawberry jello, bringing not just an appealing visual element and additional taste but also a refreshing texture contrast to the crumbly crust and velvety filling.
Quinoa Salad
Whether you’re planning a casual outdoor gathering or a packed picnic with health-conscious friends, this quinoa salad recipe is sure to be a showstopper. The combination of nutritious ingredients and vibrant flavors makes it an ideal choice for those looking to fuel their bodies while satisfying their taste buds.
Wholesome quinoa serves as the base, paired with fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and pungent green onion for a delightful medley of textures and colors. To bring out the full depth of flavors, the salad is finished with a zesty honey lemon garlic dressing that’s surprisingly simple yet incredibly effective. This quinoa salad has a way of converting even self-proclaimed salad haters into enthusiastic fans.
Chicken Tenders
Wrapped in a delicate golden coating, these chicken strips boast a tender texture and succulent flavor. The best part? They’re baked to perfection, eliminating the need for deep-frying and allowing you to indulge without the guilt of excess calories. I assure you that once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked – the combination of crispy exterior and juicy interior is simply irresistible.
Strawberry Limeade Slush
Treat yourself to a revitalizing and delicious strawberry limeade slush this summer, made with just a few simple ingredients: Diet Sprite, fresh strawberries, a squeeze of lime juice, and crushed ice. This refreshing drink is not only a perfect solution for hot summer days, but it’s also an incredibly healthy choice – boasting one of the lowest calorie counts next to water, making it a guilt-free way to quench your thirst.
25 Easy Picnic Sides To Enjoy Outside
Rounding out your next outdoor gathering with delicious sides is crucial. When planning the perfect picnic, it’s often the smaller details that make all the difference. In this case, a thoughtful selection of side dishes can elevate your meal and create a memorable experience for you and your guests. With an array of easy recipes to choose from – including salads, dips, and indulgent desserts – finding the ideal accompaniment to your picnic lunch has never been easier.
Instructions
Fresh from your kitchen, you’re about to create something truly special. To do this, start by choosing a recipe that genuinely excites you – it could be an old family secret or a modern culinary innovation. Once you’ve selected the perfect dish, gather all of the necessary ingredients and ensure they’re at hand. Then, with a focus on speed without sacrificing quality, aim to prepare your picnic side in 30 minutes or less.
