People love outdoor gatherings and picnics during summer, but deciding what food to serve can be challenging. It’s crucial to have quick and tasty DIY lunch ideas for a successful outdoor event.
This article will explore various options for sandwiches and wraps, salads and sides, snacks and finger foods, beverages, and desserts. So, let’s get started!
Sandwiches and Wraps
Sandwiches and wraps are classic and convenient lunch options for outdoor events. They are easy to prepare and can be customised to suit any taste. Some ideas for tasty sandwiches and wraps:
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Grilled chicken and avocado wrap
Spread some guacamole on a whole wheat tortilla, add some grilled chicken, lettuce, and tomato, then wrap it up.
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Caprese sandwich
Layer mozzarella cheese, tomato, and fresh basil on a baguette, then drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
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Spicy Chicken and Rice Wrap
Spread some sriracha mayo on a whole wheat tortilla, add some cooked Rozana basmati rice, sliced spicy grilled chicken, lettuce, and tomato, then wrap it up. Enjoy!
To add more flavour to your sandwiches and wraps, you can also use a variety of spreads and condiments, such as mustard, mayo, pesto, or tzatziki. Add crunchy veggies, such as cucumber, carrot, or bell pepper, to give your sandwiches and wraps some texture.
Salads and Sides
Summer salads and sides are perfect for outdoor events because they can be made in advance and stored in the cooler until it’s time to eat. Here are some delicious recipes for summer salads and sides:
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Greek Pasta Salad
Cook some fusilli pasta, then mix it with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives. Toss with some rice bran oil and lemon juice for a refreshing flavour.
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Watermelon Feta Salad
Combine diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and mint leaves in a bowl. Drizzle with some balsamic glaze for a sweet and savoury flavour.
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Classic Coleslaw
Shred some cabbage and carrots, then mix them with mayo, vinegar, sugar, and celery seed. Let it chill in the fridge for a few hours to allow the flavours to meld together.
Add unique ingredients like fresh herbs, nuts, or dried fruits to make your salads and sides more interesting. You can also experiment with dressings like ranch, honey mustard, or vinaigrette to find the perfect flavour combination.
Snacks and Finger Foods
Snacks and finger foods are essential for outdoor gatherings because they can be eaten on the go and are perfect for sharing. Here are some ideas for tasty snacks and finger foods:
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Hummus and Veggies
Serve some hummus with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers for a healthy and refreshing snack.
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Cheese and Crackers
Set out a platter of assorted cheeses and crackers for quick and easy appetisers.
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Trail Mix
Mix nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and chocolate chips for a delicious and energising snack.
Pack your snacks and finger foods in small or zip-lock bags to make them more transportable. You can also use reusable containers to reduce waste and keep your food fresh.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a beach day, or a backyard BBQ, these DIY summer lunch ideas will have your guests raving about the food and asking for more.