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Summer picnics are one of the best ways to enjoy the warm weather, spend time with loved ones, and indulge in tasty bites. The key to a successful picnic is having easy-to-make and portable recipes that will please everyone’s taste buds. Here are some delightful options that will make your picnic a hit without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.
Hummus and Pesto Sandwiches
These sandwiches are not only quick to assemble but also packed with flavours and nutrients. The combination of hummus and pesto adds a delightful and smooth twist to the crunch of the veggies.
Ingredients
• 8 slices of your favourite bread (sourdough, whole grain, or ciabatta)
• 1/2 cup hummus
• 1/2 cup pesto
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 1 cup mixed greens
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
1. Spread hummus on four slices of bread and pesto on the other four.
2. Layer cucumber, avocado, tomato, mixed greens, and red onion on the hummus-covered slices.
3. Top with the pesto-covered slices of bread.
4. Cut the sandwiches in half for easy handling.
Refreshing Watermelon Salad
This watermelon salad is perfect for a hot summer day. The sweetness of the watermelon pairs beautifully with the saltiness of the feta and the freshness of the mint.
Ingredients
• 4 cups diced watermelon
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup sliced red onions
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine watermelon, feta cheese, mint leaves, and red onions.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Gently toss to combine.
Quick Pasta Salad
Pasta salad is a picnic staple. It’s easy to prepare, versatile, and can be made ahead of time. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser and it’s easy to make larger batches if needed.
Ingredients
• 2 cups cooked pasta (fusilli or penne work great)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any colour)
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, black olives, bell peppers, red onion, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
2. Pour Italian dressing over the salad.
3. Toss well to coat all the ingredients.
4. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic finger food that’s easy to transport and serve. They’re creamy, tangy, and always a hit.
Ingredients
• 6 hard-boiled eggs
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Paprika for garnish
Instructions
1. Peel the hard-boiled eggs and cut them in half lengthwise.
2. Remove the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mash the yolks together with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon or pipe the yolk mixture back into the egg whites.
5. Sprinkle with paprika for garnish.
With these easy summer picnic recipes, you’re all set for a delightful day under the sun. Enjoy the good food, great company, and beautiful weather!
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