15 Go-To Recipes for International Picnic Day

Planning a picnic? International Picnic Day is the perfect excuse to pack up some tasty bites and enjoy a meal outdoors. This list of go-to recipes is full of unique ideas that go way beyond the usual sandwiches and chips.

Every recipe is gluten-free, so you can share without stress. Whether you’re planning a picnic in the park, the backyard, or even the living room, these easy and crowd-pleasing dishes will help make it a celebration to remember.

Mac and Cheese

If you’re cooking for mixed diets, this Mac and Cheese is a safe and easy win. Laura Bakes keeps it simple, and the recipe stays creamy after travel or reheating. It’s made to bring along and serve anywhere.

Get the recipe: Gluten Free Mac and Cheese

Orzo Pasta Salad

This Orzo Pasta Salad is a no-mess, no-stress dish from Laura Bakes that’s made for sharing. It holds together well in a cooler or lunch bag and doesn’t need to be warmed up. Great for outdoor events or road trips.

Get the recipe: Orzo Pasta Salad

Homemade Hummus

Begin with Balance has a Homemade Hummus recipe that can be used in many ways. Spread it on toast, pack it in lunchboxes, or serve it with vegetables. It fits into many meals, from school lunches to afternoon snacks.

Get the recipe: Homemade Hummus

Dutch Oven Chili

This Dutch Oven Chili from Begin with Balance is a simple meal that works well for weeknights or weekends. You can make a batch ahead of time and serve it for dinner or lunch.

Get the recipe: Dutch Oven Chili

Smoked Salmon Kimbap

This Smoked Salmon Kimbap from Chef’s Pencil is good for when you want a fresh and easy roll. It works well for make-ahead meals or packed lunches. You don’t need to cook much, and everything rolls together fast in one go.

Get the recipe: Smoked Salmon Kimbap

Italian Focaccia Keto Bread

This Italian Focaccia Keto Bread from Like Hot Keto is a low-carb way to bake fresh bread at home. It works for meal prep, sandwiches, or as a side.

Get the recipe: Italian Focaccia Keto Bread

Trail Mix

This Trail Mix from Less with Laur is a fast, no-cook snack you can keep around for busy days. It’s good for kids, work breaks, or packing in a lunchbox. The recipe is flexible, so you can use what you already have at home.

Get the recipe: Trail Mix

Flourless Pancakes

These pancakes from Refresh My Health skip the flour and come with caramelized apples and homemade blueberry jam. They’re good for a weekend breakfast when you want something warm without much work.

Get the recipe: Flourless Pancakes

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Wholefully’s recipe makes a corn salad that works for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners. You can serve it as a side or scoop it up with tortilla chips.

Get the recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad

Instant Pot Potato Salad

Wholefully’s Instant Pot Potato Salad is a quick option when you want a cold side without much cooking. You can prep it in advance, and it stores well. It’s a good match for grilled food or packed lunches when you need something ready to go.

Get the recipe: Instant Pot Potato Salad

Roasted Spiced Chickpeas

This recipe from Foodess uses canned chickpeas and pantry spices. Roasting them makes a snack you can take anywhere or keep in a jar at home.

Get the recipe: Roasted Spiced Chickpeas

Chili Mac

Whole New Mom’s Chili Mac is a simple stove top dinner made with pantry basics. It works well for feeding a group. It can be made meatless or with ground beef for extra protein.

Get the recipe: Chili Mac

Creamy Mexican Taco Pasta

This Creamy Mexican Taco Pasta from The Clean Happy Life brings together taco flavor and pasta in one simple meal. It’s great for busy days and can be made with regular or dairy-free cream. You can use ground meat or a meat-free option based on what you have.

Get the recipe: Creamy Mexican Taco Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes from The Clean Happy Life are perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. They bring together basic ingredients in a way that works well with many meals. Serve them with meat, vegetables, or salads for a simple and easy side.

Get the recipe: Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Turkey Burgers with Zucchini

These Turkey Burgers with Zucchini from Haute and Healthy Living are a simple way to add variety to dinner. They go well with salads, rice, or roasted vegetables. Make them for a weeknight meal or pack them up for lunch during the week.

Get the recipe: Turkey Burgers with Zucchini