14 Fresh Recipes for a Healthy Picnic

  • By Jennifer Mulder
  • 14 May 2018
  • 3 minute read
14 Fresh Recipes for a Healthy Picnic | The Health Sessions

It’s one of my daughter’s favourite activities: having a picnic.

It doesn’t really matter where – in the park, the garden, or even in front of the TV on cold winter days. Because what’s more leisurely than lounging around with a variety of foods you can eat with your hands?

Now that the weather’s warming up, it’s time to round up some outdoor-friendly recipes that are easy to pack up. Some days a simple sandwich with snacks and refreshments will do just fine. But if you’re looking for something special to turn a sunny afternoon in the park into a mini vacation, check out these 14 vibrant dishes and drinks for a healthy picnic!

What to Pack for a Healthy Picnic

This blog post contains some affiliate links to resources you might find useful. All opinions are my own.

1. Lemonade & Iced Tea

Summertime Sun Tea from Thirsty for Tea

Healthy Picnic: Summertime Sun Tea from Thirsty For Tea | The Health Sessions

Sparkling Cucumber Basil Lemonade from The Broken Bread 

Healthy Picnic: Sparkling Cucumber Basil Lemonade from The Broken Bread | The Health Sessions

Pineapple Ginger Iced Tea from The Kitchen McCabe 

Healthy Picnic: Pineapple Ginger Iced Tea from The Kitchen McCabe | The Health Sessions

2. A Hearty Sandwich

Vegetarian Muffuletta Picnic Sandwich from Yummy Mummy Kitchen

Healthy Picnic: Vegetarian Muffuletta Sandwich from Yummy Mummy Kitchen | The Health Sessions

Chicken Caesar Wraps from I Heart Naptime 

Healthy Picnic: Chicken Caesar Wrap from I Heart Naptime | The Health Sessions

Spinach and Basil Smoked Salmon from Cooking Melangery  

Healthy Picnic: Spinach and Basil Smoked Salmon Roll from Cooking Melangery | The Health Sessions

3. A Colourful Salad

Our Favourite Picnic Salad from The First Mess 

Healthy Picnic: Our Favorite Picnic Salad from The First Mess | The Health Sessions

Chopped-Vegetables Tabbouleh from Martha Stewart 

Healthy Picnic: Chopped-Vegetable Tabbouleh from Martha Stewart | The Health Sessions

Strawberry Avocado Pesto Pasta Salad from Half Baked Harvest 

Healthy Picnic: Strawberry Avocado Pesto Pasta Salad from Half Baked Harvest | The Health Sessions

4. A Snack to Nibble On

Watermelon on a Stick from Domino

Healthy Picnic: Watermelon on a Stick from Domino | The Health;th Sessions

Rainbow Fruit Skewers with Vanilla-Honey Yogurt Dip from The Comfort of Cooking 

Healthy Picnic: Rainbow Fruit Skewers from The Comfort Kitchen | The Health Sessions

Easy Antipasto Skewers from The Mediterranean Dish 

Healthy Picnic: Easy Antipasto Skewers | The Mediterranean Dish | The Health Sessions

Green Goddess Veggie Dip Cups from The View from Great Island

Healthy Picnic: Green Goddess Veggie Dip Cups from The View From Great Island | The Health Sessions

Fresh Mango Salsa (with Tortilla Chips) from Cookie and Kate 

Healthy Picnic: Fresh Mango Salsa from Cookie and Kate | The Health Sessions

5. Picnic Essentials

For a leisurely day in the park or at the beach, a good outdoor blanket and picnic basket come in handy. You can find lots of funky can coolers and picnic blankets, but a classic hamper also works. And what about a sling chair for ultimate relaxation?

Don’t forget to bring napkins, unbreakable cups and drinking bottles. And a great tip from Domino: put cupcake liners over your glasses to prevent bugs from getting into your lemonade.

Depending on your mood and company, bring a ball, book or travel games for a good time. So gather your family and friends, pack up and head to a relaxing spot for a healthy picnic. Enjoy!

What are your favourite recipes for a healthy picnic? 

If you enjoyed reading this article, you might also like 12 Refreshing Drinks for a Hot Summer’s Day and 10 Summer Essentials for Fun Staycation.

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