Picnic Perfect: 17 Dishes Ideal For Outdoor Dining

Nothing beats the charm of a picnic—fresh air, sunshine, and, of course, a spread of delicious food! If you’re gearing up for some outdoor dining, we’ve got just the lineup of dishes that are perfect for packing up and taking along. Whether it’s a laid-back lunch or a cozy sunset dinner, these meals are sure to make your picnic a hit. Here’s to great food in the great outdoors—may your skies be clear and your picnic baskets full!

Strawberry Upside Down Cake with a slice missing.
Strawberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This chicken bake will be the star of your picnic with its delicious combination of taste and convenience. Mediterranean Chicken Bake is ideal for those who enjoy a meal filled with flavors of the Mediterranean. With its hearty ingredients, it keeps well and can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any outdoor setting.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Two pulled pork eggs benedict on a plate with sauce.
Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform your picnic with Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict, a dish that marries indulgence with outdoor dining. It’s perfect for a late-morning brunch picnic, offering a luxurious twist to your alfresco dining. The dish holds up surprisingly well in transit, especially when components are packed separately and assembled on-site.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Eggs Benedict

Lemon Goldies

Three square pieces of lemon goldies on a white plate.
Lemon Goldies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Lemon Goldies are the perfect picnic dessert, offering a refreshing lemony zest that caps off any meal wonderfully. These bars are both sweet and tangy, and their sturdy texture makes them ideal for packing into a picnic basket. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they provide a burst of sunshine regardless of the weather.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Goldies

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serve this to your guests for a refreshing change from typical picnic fare. Mediterranean Cod is a light and flavorful option that’s perfect for health-conscious picnic-goers. This dish draws on the fresh, clean flavors of the Mediterranean, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These individual stacks are perfectly portioned, ensuring that each guest can enjoy their own little serving of cheesy goodness. Au Gratin Potato Stacks are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a fantastic addition to any picnic spread. They travel well and can be eaten with minimal mess, which is always a plus at a picnic.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Mini Blueberry Muffins

Blueberry crumb muffins on a white plate.
Mini Blueberry Muffins. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mini Blueberry Muffins are a delightful treat that’s both practical and delicious for picnics. Their small size makes them easy to distribute and eat without utensils, which is ideal for informal outdoor settings. Packed with juicy blueberries, these muffins offer a sweet taste that appeals to all ages.
Get the Recipe: Mini Blueberry Muffins

Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche

A slice of Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche on a plate next to a glass of orange juice.
Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Your picnic guests will appreciate this delicious and substantial dish that stands out from the usual fare. Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche is a hearty option for those seeking a filling vegetarian dish. This quiche is great for picnics because it can be served warm or cold and holds its shape well when sliced.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli 3-Cheese Impossible Quiche

Smoked Asparagus

Smoked asparagus on a white platter with lemon.
Smoked Asparagus. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoked Asparagus adds a sophisticated flair to your picnic menu with its distinctive smoky flavor. This dish is incredibly simple to prepare, yet it brings a level of refinement to your meal. It pairs well with both meat and fish, making it a versatile side that complements any main.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Asparagus

Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of cold crab dip with crackers and chives.
Cold Crab Dip. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bring this along to impress your guests with a sophisticated and tasty appetizer that upgrades the entire picnic. Cold Crab Dip is an excellent starter that sets the tone for a luxurious picnic experience. The dip is easy to pack and stays fresh, making it a hassle-free addition to your outing.
Get the Recipe: Cold Crab Dip

Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Strawberry Upside Down Cake with a slice missing.
Strawberry Upside Down Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy this beautiful and delicious cake at your next picnic, and it will surely be a hit. Strawberry Upside Down Cake is as perfect to eat as it is to look at. Perfect for sunny picnic days, its colorful topping is sure to attract attention. This cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the palate, with its sweet and juicy flavors.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl.
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Enjoy the hearty and satisfying Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes at your next outdoor gathering. It’s filled with flavors that meld beautifully as the salad sits, making it ideal for picnics. This salad is not just tasty but also packed with nutrients to fuel your outdoor activities. It holds up well in any weather, ensuring a perfect picnic dish.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Turkey Roll Roast

A piece of roasted turkey on a cutting board with a knife.
Turkey Roll Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey Roll Roast makes serving large groups at picnics a breeze. The meat is tender and flavorful, easily sliced to serve many guests. This dish is versatile, enjoyed either warm or cold, suiting any outdoor occasion. Pair it with fresh rolls or a side salad for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Roast

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Greek Lemon Garlic Potatoes in a black dish with lemon in the background.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Greek Lemon Potatoes are a perfect addition to any picnic spread. Their bright flavor complements a variety of picnic dishes, from sandwiches to grilled meats. These potatoes are as easy to make as they are to eat, with a satisfying texture that holds up well outdoors. They’re a crowd-pleaser, loved for their deliciously tangy taste.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies on a white plate with strawberries nearby.
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These cookies will be a charming addition to any picnic basket. Strawberry Shortcake Cookies encapsulate the essence of summer in a bite-sized form. These cookies are soft, sweet, and perfect for a light dessert or a snack on a warm day. Easy to pack and even easier to eat, they don’t require utensils or plates.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black bowl with forks nearby.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serve it chilled to keep things refreshing and light. Salmon Pasta Salad is a flavorful and hearty choice for any outdoor meal. It combines rich salmon with a creamy dressing that satisfies each bite. This salad is particularly good for picnics because it can be made ahead of time and tastes even better.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

An apple cinnamon roll on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect marriage of two beloved desserts. These rolls bring the classic flavors of apple pie in a soft, doughy cinnamon roll form. They’re ideal for ending your picnic on a sweet note or starting off a morning outdoor brunch. The aroma of apples and cinnamon will surely draw everyone in.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Smoked Carver Ham

Smoked sliced ham on a cutting board.
Smoked Carver Ham. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This ham is easy to carve and serve, providing a high-quality protein for your outdoor dining. Smoked Carver Ham is a versatile and hearty main dish for any picnic. Its rich, smoky flavor complements a variety of sides. It’s particularly popular at large gatherings, where it can feed a crowd without much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham

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