Healthy Bites for Happy Picnics: Celebrating National Picnic Month
July is here, and with it comes the celebration of National Picnic Month!
This delightful annual observance invites us to step outside, get into the sunshine, and relish the simple pleasure of dining al fresco with friends and loved ones. Whether in a local park, the beach, or a back garden, picnics offer the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and loved ones. And the good news is, they can also be healthy!
In this blog, we'll offer tips and ideas for healthy meals, snacks, desserts, and drinks to take on your picnic endeavors this summer. So, grab your blanket, pack your basket, and join us in celebrating the timeless tradition of picnicking. Let's make this National Picnic Month a healthy and happy one!
These protein-rich healthy picnic food ideas will help keep you energized and satisfied during your picnic. Enjoy!
Healthy Picnic Meal Ideas
Turkey and Bell Pepper Roll-Ups:
Sliced turkey breast rolled up around a few slices of bell pepper, dipped into hummus
Lentil Salad:
Cooked lentils, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, parsley, and a balsamic, sea salt, and olive oil dressing.
Quinoa Salad:
Quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, feta cheese, fresh herbs (like parsley or mint), and a lemon vinaigrette.
Chicken and Veggie Wraps:
Whole wheat tortillas, pre-cooked chicken breast, avocado, spinach, shredded raw carrot, shredded cos lettuce, and shredded raw beetroot.
Chicken, Halloumi and Veggie Skewers:
Grilled chicken breast, halloumi, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, courgette, and red onion on skewers.
Healthy Picnic Snack Ideas
Carrot sticks, celery, sliced bell pepper, cucumber sticks to dip into hummus.
Oatcakes with various toppings such as smoked salmon slices, turkey or ham slices, cottage cheese, or hummus.
Olives and cubed feta cheese with cocktail sticks.
Protein Smoothie made with greek yogurt, protein powder, frozen berries, spinach, and almond milk
Hard-boiled eggs seasoned with paprika, sumac, sea salt and pepper.
Steamed edamame pods lightly sprinkled with sea salt.
Sliced apples and almond or cashew butter.
Healthy Picnic Drink Ideas
Water infused with slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, and mint leaves.
Brewed green tea, ice, and freshly squeezed lemon juice
Kombucha (no added sugar or sweeteners)
Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice with soda or sparkling water
Healthy Picnic Sweet Ideas
Berry Fruit Salad:
A mix of blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cherries, grapes, and kiwi. Option to top with coconut cream and cinnamon.
Homemade Trail Mix:
Almonds, walnuts, dried cranberries, sunflower seeds, and broken dark chocolate pieces.
Greek Yogurt and Berry Parfaits:
Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and a drizzle of honey
No Bake Energy Balls:
Rolled oats, almond butter, honey, chia seeds, and mini dark chocolate chips.
No Bake Protein Balls:
Rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, chia seeds, and protein powder.
Chia Seed Pudding:
Chia seeds, almond milk, vanilla extract, and fresh berries.
These ideas offer a range of flavours and nutrients, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable picnic experience. We hope you enjoy your healthy outdoor dining this National Picnic Month.
