Antipasto Skewers
Antipasto Skewers; Photo credit: Rebecca Denton

Summertime meals are best enjoyed outdoors with friends and family. Whether you’re packing a meal for a day at the beach, a mountain retreat or even just an afternoon in your own backyard, these picnic recipes will make planning a breeze. From appetizer to dessert, we’ve got your next picnic covered with these delicious recipes that are easy to pack, transport and enjoy outdoors.

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Antipasto Skewers
Antipasto Skewers; Photo credit: Rebecca Denton

Antipasto Skewers

Antipasto Skewers make a super simple yet elegant summer appetizer. Thread them with salami, prosciutto, olives, tomatoes, basil, artichoke hearts and mozzarella, then let them marinate in Italian dressing before serving or packing in a cooler for a picnic.

Barbecue Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Barbecue Chicken Salad Sandwiches; Photo credit: Rebecca Denton

Barbecue Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Chicken salad is a picnic favorite, but why not try a new take on the classic dish with Barbecue Chicken Salad Sandwiches? Chop grilled barbecue chicken into bite-sized pieces, mix with mayonnaise, onion and celery, and serve on whole-grain buns for a filling and satisfying lunch.

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Three Pepper Coleslaw
Three Pepper Coleslaw; Photo credit: Rebecca Denton

Three Pepper Coleslaw

Skip the mayo and try a fresh and crunchy Three Pepper Coleslaw marinated in a zesty vinaigrette. Made with red and green bell peppers and a jalapeño for a touch of heat, this light and colorful side dish complements any summer meal.

Key Lime Pie Cups
Key Lime Pie Cups; Photo credit: Rebecca Denton

Key Lime Pie Cups

Finish off your picnic with single-serving Key Lime Pie Cups layered with graham cracker crumbs, Key lime pie filling and whipped cream. These cool and refreshing treats are the easiest way to pack and serve pie – no slicing or plates required.

Read & Connect

North Carolina Field & Family Spring 2026
Flip through the pages of the Spring 2026 edition of North Carolina Field and Family magazine. In this issue, impress your guests with creative yet easy spring holiday recipes, learn how farmers face challenges planning the future of their farmland, meet some North Carolina beef producers raising the steaks, start your engines with eight reasons to visit Richmond County, get crabby with Sheri Castle’s Deviled Crab recipe and much more.

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