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.

Related articles in Healthy lifestyle

15 Tasty Ways to Eat More Leafy Greens (That Aren’t Salads)

15 Tasty Ways to Eat More Leafy Greens (That Aren't Salads) | The Health Sessions

9 Breakfast Salads Worth Waking Up For

9 Breakfast Salads Worth Waking Up For | The Health Sessions

The Finest Healthy Eating Tips from Your Favourite Food Bloggers

How Finding an Online Community Can Help You Thrive with Chronic Illness | The Health Sessions