Gathering for a church picnic is a cherished tradition, filled with laughter, fellowship, and delicious food. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these 51 timeless recipes will bring joy to your picnic table. From savory bites to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, let’s explore these delightful dishes that have stood the test of time!
1. Macaroni Dill Salad
Perfect for any picnic, macaroni dill salad is a refreshing dish. Think spirals of macaroni tossed with fresh dill, crunchy cucumbers, and juicy cherry tomatoes. The creamy dressing, with a hint of lemon, ties it all together beautifully. A sprinkle of black pepper adds a subtle kick. Serve chilled for a crowd-pleasing delight.
2. Cuban Sliders
Cuban sliders are a mini version of the classic Cuban sandwich. Picture layers of succulent ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles, all nestled in soft slider buns. A smear of mustard gives them a zesty touch. These sliders are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Perfectly bite-sized, they’ll be a hit at your picnic.
3. Blueberry-Rhubarb Crumble
The vibrant colors and flavors create a standout treat for any gathering. Blueberry-rhubarb crumble combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tartness of rhubarb, while a buttery crumble topping adds both texture and sweetness. Served warm, it’s a comforting dessert that pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
4. Carolina Caviar
Carolina caviar is a zesty salad that’s both colorful and flavorful. Black-eyed peas, sweet corn, and diced peppers are tossed with a tangy dressing. A touch of onion and cilantro adds freshness. This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Serve with tortilla chips for a crunchy twist.
5. Layered Salad for a Crowd
This is a perfect make-ahead dish that stays fresh and delicious. Layered salad for a crowd is both a feast for the eyes and the palate. Crisp lettuce, shredded cheese, and hard-boiled eggs form the base layers. Juicy tomatoes and sweet peas add vibrant colors and flavors. A creamy dressing tops it off.
6. Tuna Macaroni Salad
Tuna macaroni salad is a classic dish that’s easy to prepare and always satisfying. Elbow macaroni and chunks of tuna are mixed with diced celery and a creamy dressing. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of color and flavor. It’s a versatile salad that can be served as a side or main dish.
7. Strawberry Fluff
Simple to make, it’s a great addition to any picnic menu, offering a burst of strawberry flavor. Strawberry fluff is a delightful dessert that’s light and airy. Whipped cream, marshmallows, and fresh strawberries come together in a fluffy pink mixture. It’s a sweet treat that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
8. Devilled Eggs
Devilled eggs are a classic appetizer that never goes out of style. Hard-boiled eggs with creamy yolk filling, seasoned with mustard and mayonnaise, are topped with a dash of paprika. Chives add a touch of elegance. These bite-sized delights are perfect for picnics, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
9. Red, White & Blue Potato Salad
Red, white & blue potato salad is a patriotic twist on the traditional potato salad. Red potatoes, blue cheese, and white onions are combined for a colorful dish. A dash of herbs enhances the flavors. It’s a perfect side for any gathering, offering a unique blend of textures and tastes that everyone will enjoy.
10. Buffalo Macaroni and Cheese Bites
These bite-sized treats have a crispy exterior and a gooey interior. Buffalo macaroni and cheese bites bring together the creaminess of mac and cheese with the spiciness of buffalo sauce. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. They’re perfect for adding a bit of spice to your picnic spread.
11. Potluck German Apple Cake
A delightful dessert perfect for sharing, Potluck German apple cake is moist and flavorful. Juicy apples are folded into a tender cake and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar for added sweetness. The blend of apple and cinnamon creates a delightful aroma, making it a beloved choice for any gathering.
12. Chicken Burritos
Chicken Burritos are a hearty main dish that’s both filling and flavorful. Shredded chicken, beans, and cheese are wrapped in soft tortillas, with a touch of salsa for zing. These burritos are easy to make and perfect for picnics, offering a satisfying meal. Serve with a side of guacamole or sour cream for added flavor.
13. Party Appetizer Meatballs
A crowd favorite for any gathering, these meatballs offer a savory bite in every morsel. Made with ground beef and glazed with a shiny BBQ sauce, they’re perfectly seasoned. A sprinkle of parsley adds freshness. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, they’re sure to disappear quickly at any picnic.
14. Skinny Quinoa Veggie Dip
Skinny quinoa veggie dip is a healthy and delicious option for your picnic table. Quinoa is mixed with diced veggies and a creamy dressing, offering a delightful texture. Serve it with sliced bell peppers for a colorful and crunchy accompaniment. It’s a guilt-free snack that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
15. Apple Cider Bundt Cake
Apple cider bundt cake is a flavorful dessert that captures the essence of fall. The cake is infused with apple cider, giving it a moist texture and rich flavor. A golden-brown crust adds a satisfying crunch, while a drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the sweetness. Perfect for picnics, it’s both beautiful and delicious.
16. Artichoke Shrimp Pasta Salad
Perfect for warm-weather gatherings, this impressive dish is a light and satisfying artichoke shrimp pasta salad. Combining the flavors of the sea with garden-fresh goodness, this refreshing salad features spiral pasta tossed with artichokes and shrimp, creating a delightful medley. A garnish of fresh basil adds a touch of elegance.
17. Layered Chocolate Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies
Layered Chocolate Marshmallow Peanut Butter Brownies are a decadent treat that’s sure to please. These brownies boast a rich chocolate base, topped with gooey marshmallow and creamy peanut butter layers. Each bite offers a burst of sweetness and texture. Ideal for sharing, they’re a must-have for any picnic dessert table.
18. Green Bean Salad
Green Bean Salad is a crisp and refreshing side dish, perfect for a summer picnic. Fresh green beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onions are tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a simple yet flavorful salad that complements any main dish. Light and healthy, it’s a great addition to your picnic spread.
19. Hot Cheese Dip
A crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of indulgence to your picnic menu, perfect for cheese lovers. Hot cheese dip is a warm and gooey appetizer that’s impossible to resist. Bubbling cheese with a hint of spice from jalapeños makes for a delightful dip. Serve it hot with tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
20. Strawberry Pretzel Dessert
Strawberry pretzel dessert is a sweet and salty treat that’s sure to impress. A crunchy pretzel crust is topped with a creamy cheese layer, followed by a vibrant strawberry topping. Each spoonful offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s a visually appealing dish that’s perfect for any picnic gathering.
21. Bacon-Cheddar Potato Skins
Bacon-Cheddar Potato Skins are a savory delight, featuring crispy potato halves topped with melted cheese and bacon bits. A garnish of chives adds a fresh touch. These potato skins are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Serve them hot for a delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any picnic setting.
22. Lemon Blueberry Cornbread
Lemon Blueberry Cornbread is a delightful twist on the classic cornbread. The bright flavors of lemon and juicy blueberries complement the traditional cornbread texture. A golden crust gives it an appealing look, while each bite offers a burst of sweetness. It’s a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for summer picnics.
23. Chicken Salad Party Sandwiches
Chicken Salad Party Sandwiches are a classic choice for any gathering. Creamy chicken salad with lettuce is nestled in soft buns. A garnish of grapes adds a touch of sweetness and color. These sandwiches are convenient and delicious, offering a satisfying meal option that’s easy to serve. Perfect for picnics or any occasion.
24. Rhubarb Custard Bars
Rhubarb Custard Bars are a delightful dessert that combines tart rhubarb with creamy custard. A crumbly crust adds texture, while the pink rhubarb topping enhances the visual appeal. These bars are sweet, tangy, and utterly delicious. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing, making them a great choice for any picnic.
25. Bacon Macaroni Salad
This salad is sure to be a crowd favorite at any event. Bacon Macaroni Salad is a rich and flavorful dish, featuring elbow pasta and crispy bacon bits. A creamy dressing ties it all together, while green onions add a fresh crunch. It’s a hearty salad that pairs well with other picnic dishes, offering a satisfying bite.
26. Pineapple Sheet Cake
This tropical delight, known as Pineapple Sheet Cake, offers a moist and flavorful experience. Infused with sweet pineapple juice, the cake emerges tender and delectable. Richness is added by a creamy frosting, while fresh chunks of pineapple on top elevate the fruity notes. Perfect for warm-weather picnics, this refreshing dessert provides a delightful taste of the tropics.
27. Cranberry Broccoli Salad
Cranberry broccoli salad is a refreshing combination of flavors and textures. Fresh broccoli florets are tossed with dried cranberries and a creamy dressing. Sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch. It’s a vibrant and nutritious salad that’s perfect for picnics, offering a sweet and savory contrast that’s both satisfying and delicious.
28. Cheesy Ham & Potato Packet
Cheesy Ham & Potato Packet is an easy and satisfying dish that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings. Diced potatoes and ham are enveloped in melted cheese, creating a savory and filling meal. Cooked in foil packets, it’s convenient and mess-free. A sprinkle of parsley adds color and flavor, making it a delicious choice for picnics.
29. Raspberry Fudge Torte
A sumptuous delight ideal for special occasions, this dessert provides an exquisite conclusion to any picnic meal. Raspberry Fudge Torte features a lavish blend of rich chocolate and zesty raspberry glaze. The harmonious layers of chocolate and raspberry offer a stunning contrast, both in appearance and taste.
30. Zesty Sugar Snap Peas
Zesty Sugar Snap Peas bring a burst of freshness to your picnic spread. Fresh green peas are tossed with lemon zest and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, creating a light and zesty dish. It’s a simple yet flavorful side that complements richer dishes, offering a fresh and vibrant option for any gathering.
31. Coconut-Lemon Ice Cream Cake
Coconut-Lemon Ice Cream Cake is a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days. Creamy layers of coconut and lemon create a light and zesty flavor, while a toasted coconut topping adds texture. It’s a delightful frozen treat that’s easy to prepare and serves as a refreshing finale to any picnic.
32. Bacon Roll-Ups
Bacon Roll-Ups are a savory snack that’s sure to be a hit. Crispy bacon is wrapped around a gooey cheese filling, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. A garnish of fresh herbs adds a touch of elegance. These roll-ups are easy to make and perfect for sharing, offering a satisfying bite at any picnic.
33. Lemon Fluff Dessert
Lemon Fluff Dessert is a light and airy treat that’s perfect for any gathering. Fluffy lemon mousse offers a burst of citrus flavor, while a sprinkle of lemon zest adds a touch of brightness. It’s a refreshing dessert that’s easy to prepare and enjoy, offering a sweet and tangy finale to any meal.
34. Chicken Caesar Pitas
Chicken Caesar Pitas are a delicious and convenient option for any picnic. Grilled chicken and crisp romaine lettuce are tucked into soft pita pockets, topped with Caesar dressing. These pitas are both satisfying and easy to eat, offering a refreshing twist on the classic Caesar salad. Perfect for on-the-go meals.
35. Strawberry-Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake
Strawberry-Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that’s both sweet and tangy. Vibrant strawberries and rhubarb create a beautiful topping, while the cake itself is moist and flavorful. It’s an eye-catching treat that’s perfect for sharing, offering a burst of fruit flavor that’s sure to be a hit at any picnic.
36. Bacon-Cheese Biscuit Bites
Bacon-Cheese Biscuit Bites are a savory snack that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Golden-brown biscuits are packed with bacon and cheese bits, offering a delicious combination in every bite. These bites are easy to make and perfect for sharing, making them a great addition to any picnic spread. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor.
37. Cucumber-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
Cucumber-Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes are a refreshing appetizer that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Cherry tomatoes are filled with a creamy mixture of cucumber and cream cheese, creating a delightful bite-sized snack. A garnish of dill adds a touch of freshness. These stuffed tomatoes are both visually appealing and delicious.
38. Lemon Blueberry Trifle
Lemon Blueberry Trifle is an elegant dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious. Layers of lemon cake, fresh blueberries, and whipped cream create a visually stunning treat. Each spoonful offers a burst of citrus and berry flavor, making it a refreshing choice for any picnic. It’s a delightful way to end your meal on a sweet note.
39. Bacon-Peanut Butter Cornbread Muffins
Bacon-Peanut Butter Cornbread Muffins are an unexpected yet delicious combination. Golden cornbread muffins are infused with peanut butter and studded with crispy bacon bits. Each bite offers a unique blend of savory and sweet flavors. These muffins are a creative and tasty addition to any picnic menu, sure to surprise and delight.
40. Chicken Salad Caprese
Chicken Salad Caprese is a refreshing twist on the classic caprese salad. Grilled chicken is paired with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. It’s a light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any picnic. The combination of ingredients offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it a standout option.
41. Rhubarb Berry Upside-Down Cake
Rhubarb Berry Upside-Down Cake is a sweet and tangy dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious. Vibrant berries and rhubarb create a stunning topping, while the cake is moist and flavorful. It’s a visually appealing treat that’s perfect for sharing, offering a burst of fruit flavor that’s sure to be a hit at any picnic.
42. Bacon-Cheddar Potato Croquettes
Bacon-Cheddar Potato Croquettes are a savory snack that’s both crispy and flavorful. Golden-brown croquettes are filled with creamy potatoes, cheddar cheese, and bacon bits. Serve them with a side of sour cream for dipping. These croquettes are easy to make and perfect for sharing, offering a delicious bite at any picnic gathering.
43. Lemon-Raspberry Streusel Cake
Lemon-Raspberry Streusel Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the bright flavors of lemon and raspberry. A crumbly streusel topping adds texture and sweetness. Each slice offers a burst of citrus and berry flavor, making it a refreshing choice for any picnic. It’s a beautiful cake that’s perfect for sharing.
44. Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches
Chicken Salad Croissant Sandwiches are a classic and delicious choice for any gathering. Flaky croissants are filled with creamy chicken salad, offering a satisfying and flavorful bite. A garnish of lettuce adds freshness and crunch. These sandwiches are convenient and perfect for picnics, offering a delightful and easy-to-serve meal option.
45. Bacon-Wrapped Apricot Bites
Bacon-Wrapped Apricot Bites are a savory and sweet appetizer that’s sure to impress. Golden-brown bacon is wrapped around juicy apricot halves, creating a delightful combination of flavors. A garnish of rosemary adds an aromatic touch. These bites are easy to make and perfect for sharing, offering a unique and delicious snack for any gathering.
46. Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans
Chicken Salad with Grapes and Pecans is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm-weather picnics. Creamy chicken salad is enhanced with juicy red grapes and crunchy pecans. A garnish of parsley adds color and freshness. This salad is both satisfying and delicious, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
47. Rhubarb Dream Bars
Rhubarb Dream Bars are a sweet and tangy dessert that’s both delicious and eye-catching. A crumbly crust is topped with a pink rhubarb mixture, creating a delightful contrast of textures. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing, offering a burst of fruit flavor that’s sure to be a hit at any picnic.
48. Bacon-Tomato Dip
Bacon-Tomato Dip is a flavorful and creamy appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. Creamy dip is mixed with crispy bacon bits and juicy diced tomatoes, creating a delicious combination. Serve it with tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. This dip is easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any picnic.
49. Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars
Lemon-Raspberry Cheesecake Bars are a sweet and tangy treat that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Creamy cheesecake is infused with lemon zest and topped with a vibrant raspberry mixture. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of flavors. These bars are perfect for sharing, making them a great choice for any picnic dessert table.
50. Chicken Salad with Apples, Grapes, and Walnuts
Chicken Salad with Apples, Grapes, and Walnuts is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm-weather picnics. Creamy chicken salad is enhanced with juicy apples, sweet grapes, and crunchy walnuts. A garnish of lettuce leaves adds freshness and color. This salad is both satisfying and delicious, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
51. Strawberry-Rhubarb Dump Cake
Strawberry-Rhubarb Dump Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert that’s perfect for any gathering. A golden topping sits atop a vibrant fruit layer, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Each bite offers a burst of sweet and tangy flavor. It’s a lovely treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing at any picnic.
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