5 Fun and Delicious Picnic Ideas (and 4 Health Benefits of Eating Outside)

The weather is finally beginning to get nice, which means more time outdoors. There is something about eating outside that just elevates a meal and makes every food taste that much better. Celebrate the warm weather and delicious food for National Picnic Day today, April 23rd!

The best part about a picnic is that you can make it as casual or as elaborate as you like. You can make it as simple as putting down a blanket in your backyard or explore a local park. If you plan, you can have a picnic with chairs, a small picnic table, and candles. Or, have some last-minute fun with a blanket from the back of your car.

The best part about a picnic is eating outdoors with family or friends. Fresh air and good food are good for the soul!

4 Health Benefits of Eating Outside

Whether you are a regular picnicker or only do it on rare occasions, your body will thank you. Here are 4 health benefits of outdoor dining.

1. Increase in Vitamin D: Having a picnic outside on a nice sunny day will increase the amount of Vitamin D absorbed in your body, which helps to strengthen your bones. Many people lack the amount of Vitamin D they need, and sunshine can help.

2. Mood Booster: Sunshine can help boost your mood to get out of your routine. Stepping away from your computer or office during the workweek to get outside and eat can do wonders for your mental health.

3. Better Eating Habits: When preparing for a picnic, you often spend time planning the “perfect” picnic. This means you’ll likely have a balanced meal containing whole grains, lean proteins, veggies, fruits, healthy fats, and some dairy.

4. Promote Movement: You will get some steps in while walking around the park looking for a good spot to eat. Being outdoors can also prompt you to exercise, like a short walk after you finished eating. The fresh air and sunshine can feel so invigorating.

5 Fun and Delicious Picnic Ideas

While eating outside is fun, you may be limited to what foods you can bring. However, many delicious foods are perfect for a picnic. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Cheese Boards: A cheese board or a charcuterie board are great foods to bring on a picnic. Choose your favorite cheese and crackers, add some grapes, nuts, and meats and you have a healthy meal!

2. Dips and Veggies:Pack a bunch of different dips and vegetables for a nutritious snack. Hummus, artichoke, or spinach dip pair well with some carrots, celery, or your other favorite veggies!

3. Something Sweet:Don’t forget to bring something delicious as a sweet treat. Watermelon wedges or grapes are easy to bring to eat on a blanket. Or perhaps, some strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate or an assortment of dried fruit.

4. Sandwiches:A quick and easy way to enjoy a picnic would be to either make or pick up your favorite sandwich. It certainly doesn’t have to be fancy to enjoy eating outdoors. A Caprese sandwich, turkey sandwich, or avocado toast are all great choices.

5. Don’t Forget the Drinks: Some lemonade or sparkling water to enjoy with your food are all fun ideas. Have a toast to eating outside and taking in all of your surroundings. Maybe even catch a sunset!

Try a new recipe, grab some friends, a blanket, and enjoy National Picnic Day!

Your turn to take action: What are some of your favorite foods to bring on a picnic? Let me know in the comments below!

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