Now that school and the cold streak are finally ending, everyone is looking for ways to enjoy the summer sun. One classic way to get family and friends outside is with the promise of a picnic. Too often, however, we get stuck in the rut of standard pasta salads in plastic tupperware. Check out these not-so-obvious variations on the classic picnic basket:
Mediterranean Freekeh Salad
What is freekeh, you ask? It’s an ancient grain with the nutritional qualities of a superfood (and considered by some to be even more wholesome than quinoa!).
Vegetable Fresca Salad
It doesn’t get much healthier than this: an abundance of vegetables tossed in a red wine vinaigrette.
Scallops Ceviche
For the more adventurous crowd, this seafood-based appetizer has its roots in traditional Spanish ceviche. Always serve cold.
Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese Pitas
Spice up the party with the fire of homemade buffalo dressing and aromatic blue cheese. Soft pita bread provides a welcome substitute for generic sandwich bread.
Beef Empanadas
Looking for a good way to beat the salad-and-sandwich picnic monotony? These empanadas are an Argentinian delight. Bonus: their pastry shell completely encases the filling, preventing any spills during transportation.
Fresh Veggie Pizza
Cheesy, homemade, easy to carry, and guaranteed to satisfy the picky eaters in the family who panic at the sound of the word, “salad.”
Summer Raspberry Blondies
This delicious variation on the classic chocolate chip blondie feels a bit more summery with fresh fruit and pecans.
Mini Pink Lemonade Cupcakes
Cupcakes and pink lemonade in one dessert? I think I hear summer calling.
Summer Cocktails Made with Fresh Juices
If you’re dining with the over-21 crowd, fill a plastic pitcher with one of these refreshing cocktails that are sure to make everyone ask for refills.
Extra tip: if you aren’t a cocktail drinker, check out the best white wines for summer.
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