Modern American Picnic

Enjoy the summer weather with this simple, yet festive picnic menu

For starters, try my Herby Pesto Hummus or a cheesy warm crab dip – both of these are best served with crispy pita chips and fresh crudité. For a creative main dish, try my Modern California chicken salad sandwich that pairs excellently with my bacon and apple coleslaw, and a fresh cucumber and onion salad. And for a sweet finish have 1 or 2 of our classic & huge chocolate chunk cookies – they are soft and moist and will remind you of your favorite childhood treat. And for a picnic inspired cocktail, try my Southern boozy lemonade that is spiked a generous splash of bourbon.

Become a member of RecipeSavants and check out our complete meal plan, it has all the recipes for this menu with the complete shopping list in a single easy to download and print PDF.

Starter - European

SERVES

Hummus Pesto Dip

For the ultimate dipping experience, try this mouthwatering recipe for hummus pesto dip. It has the earthy flavors of fresh basil, almonds, and aromatic spices blended with tahini, garlic, and chickpeas. It is the perfect dip for pita chips or crunchy veggies.

Starter - American

SERVES

Baked Crab Dip

This warm crab dip will remind you of the delicious dip from your favorite bar. My version features tender lump crab meat, sour cream, cream cheese and plenty of melted cheddar in a zesty sauce. Serve it warm with veggie sticks, crackers or chips.

Starter - American

SERVES

Apple Bacon Coleslaw

This quick upscale coleslaw has green and red cabbage, shredded carrots, tangy yogurt dressing, chopped bacon, tart apples and sweet dried cranberries. This Apple Bacon Coleslaw is perfect for any BBQ or pinic and pairs well with hot dogs, hamburgers or any traditional summer BBQ dish.

RecipeSavants - Pickled Cucumbers And Onion Salad

Salad - American

SERVES

Pickled Cucumbers And Onion Salad

This simple and tasty salad is a fusion of cucumbers and onions in a zesty herb brine. Chill it in the refrigerator overnight for optimal flavor. The recipe is an awesome opportunity to serve your family fresh garden ingredients.

RecipeSavants - California Chicken Salad

Main Dish - American

SERVES

California Chicken Salad

This California chicken salad has tender chunks of chicken breast, crispy veggies, and chunks of avocado and mango. The sweet and savory yogurt dressing features aromatic spices and a dollop of honey. Serve as a traditional sandwich or make a wrap with flour tortillas, lavash or in a pita.

RecipeSavants - Overnight Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Desserts - American

SERVES

Overnight Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Are you looking for the perfect dessert to pack in your picnic basket? How about these irresistible chocolate chunk cookies! They are oversized, soft & chewy, and loaded with heavenly chunks of chocolate. The secret ingredient is a light sprinkle of sea salt to give the cookie a splendid sweet & salty flavor. These cookies take a little while to make (we allow the dough to rest overnight - ensuring a tender and buttery crumb) - but they are so worth it.

Cocktail Pairing - American

SERVES

Southern Boozy Lemonade

While the kids fill up on lemonade, the adults can enjoy it enhanced with a little bourbon. This southern-inspired lemonade has fresh lemon juice, soda, bourbon, and a splash of bitters. It is a great way to stay deliciously hydrated at your picnic or backyard barbecue.