Best Picnic Food Ideas

Los Angeles, with its endless sunshine and scenic landscapes, is the perfect destination for picnics. You might be heading to Griffith Park, Malibu Creek, or the beaches of Santa Monica. To help you prepare, here are some delightful and practical picnic food ideas to make your outing in LA memorable.

Fresh and Flavorful Sandwiches

1. Classic Baguette Sandwiches: A freshly baked baguette filled with high-quality ingredients can be a real treat. Some ideas include:

• Prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze
• Smoked salmon, cream cheese, red onion, and capers
• Roasted turkey, cheddar, apple slices, and Dijon mustard

2. Banh Mi Sandwiches: Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches are flavorful and perfect for picnics. Fill a baguette with:

• Marinated pork, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and spicy mayo
• Grilled tofu, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, and hoisin sauce

3. Muffuletta Sandwiches: A hearty New Orleans favorite, muffuletta sandwiches are great for sharing. Layer:

• Salami, ham, mortadella, provolone, and olive salad on a round loaf

4. Pesto Chicken Ciabatta: Ciabatta bread with a spread of pesto, grilled chicken, arugula, and roasted red peppers.

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Refreshing Salads For A Picnic

1. Quinoa Salad: Quinoa salads are not only nutritious but also easy to pack and serve. Mix cooked quinoa with:

• Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a lemon vinaigrette
• Black beans, corn, avocado, and a cilantro lime dressing

2. Caprese Salad: A Caprese salad is a simple yet elegant choice. Layer fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

3. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad can be a refreshing addition to your picnic spread. Combine seasonal fruits like:

• Watermelon, blueberries, and mint
• Strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple

4. Watermelon Feta Salad: A refreshing mix of sweet and savory flavors. Combine:

• Cubed watermelon, feta cheese, fresh mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze

5. Orzo Pasta Salad: Orzo pasta salads are light and versatile. Mix cooked orzo with:

• Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts
• Feta, olives, and cucumbers

6. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can add texture to your picnic. Make it with:

• Shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette
• Red cabbage, green apples, and a creamy dressing

Canva.com, Thomas Faull

Snackable Sides

1. Cheese and Charcuterie Board: A cheese and charcuterie board offers a variety of flavors and is easy to share. Include:

• Assorted cheeses like brie, gouda, and cheddar
• Cured meats such as salami, prosciutto, and chorizo
• Accompaniments like olives, nuts, dried fruits, and crackers

2. Veggie Sticks and Dips: Healthy and crunchy, veggie sticks are perfect for dipping. Pair with:

• Hummus
• Guacamole
• Tzatziki

3. Deviled Eggs: Deviled eggs are a classic picnic food. Prepare them with a touch of paprika, mustard, and chives for added flavor.

Sweet Treats

1. Cookies and Brownies: Pack an assortment of cookies and brownies for a sweet ending. Consider:

• Chocolate chip cookies
• Lemon bars
• Fudge brownies

2. Freshly Baked Muffins: Muffins are easy to transport and can be enjoyed at any time. Try flavors like:

• Blueberry
• Banana nut
• Lemon poppy seed

Beverages For A Picnic

1. Infused Water: Stay hydrated with refreshing infused water. Combine water with:

• Cucumber and mint
• Lemon and raspberry
• Orange and basil

2. Iced Tea or Lemonade: Homemade iced tea or lemonade can be a delightful addition. Bring a thermos to keep them cool.

More Picnic Food Ideas

1. Sushi Rolls: Homemade or store-bought sushi rolls can be a unique addition. Choose:

• California rolls
• Spicy tuna rolls
• Vegetable rolls

2. Falafel Balls: Falafel balls are flavorful and can be enjoyed on their own or with dips. Serve with:

• Tzatziki
• Hummus
• Tahini sauce

3. Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a simple yet tasty appetizer. Top toasted baguette slices with:

• Diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic
• Goat cheese and roasted red peppers
• Ricotta, honey, and figs

4. Lentil Salad: Lentil salads are hearty and nutritious. Combine cooked lentils with:

• Diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion
• Feta cheese, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette

5. Chicken Drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks are easy to eat and pack. Season and bake them with:

• BBQ sauce
• Lemon pepper
• Honey mustard

6. Popcorn: Popcorn is a light and fun snack. Flavor it with:

• Parmesan and herbs
• Nutritional yeast and sea salt
• Caramel drizzle

These are some of the best picnic food ideas to help you organize your event in Los Angeles. You can plan which ones fit best for your outing and combine these ideas in any way you prefer. Enjoy your time outdoors, savor the delicious food, and make the most of your picnic experience in the beautiful landscapes of LA.

FAQs

What are some kid-friendly picnic food ideas for picky eaters?

For picky eaters, pack mini sandwiches with simple fillings, cheese cubes and crackers, fresh fruit like apple slices and grapes, baby carrots with ranch dip, and small bags of popcorn or pretzels.

How can I keep picnic food fresh and safe in the LA heat?

Use insulated cooler bags with ice packs, pack foods less likely to spoil quickly, keep the cooler in the shade, and consume perishable items within two hours (one hour if above 90°F).

Are there any local LA specialties I should include in my picnic?

Include avocado-based dishes, fresh local fruits, artisanal cheeses and charcuterie from farmers’ markets, freshly baked bread from local bakeries, and cold-pressed juices or craft sodas from local beverage companies.

What are some easy picnic food ideas that don’t require utensils?

Choose finger foods like wraps and sandwiches pre-cut into sizes, skewers with cheese and vegetables, hand pies or empanadas, whole fruits, and small desserts like cookies or brownies.

How can I plan a sustainable and eco-friendly picnic in Los Angeles?

Use reusable containers, utensils, and napkins, choose foods with minimal packaging, bring a reusable water bottle, opt for locally-sourced foods, and dispose of waste properly with trash and recycling bags.

What are some picnic games and activities suitable for all ages?

Bring along games and activities like a frisbee, beach ball, board games, card games, a kite, a scavenger hunt, or books and coloring supplies.

How can I prepare a romantic picnic in Los Angeles?

Choose a scenic and secluded location, pack a gourmet basket with cheeses, chocolates, and wine or sparkling cider, bring a soft blanket and cushions, include personal touches like notes or flowers, and plan for a sunset or beautiful view.