16 kid-friendly picnic recipes

Have you met muffuletta? It's a stuffed-to-the-brim Italian sandwich that can stay in your fridge for several days; so grab a wedge when you need a little nosh. The longer it sits, the better it tastes. Get the recipe: Muffuletta

There's no doubt that pasta salad is a summer staple. This recipe uses fresh herbs blended with a creamy base that really carries the dressing all the way to flavour town. Throw in super ripe cherry tomatoes to give the salad a juicy sweetness and beautiful pop of colour. For serving at a picnic, try using Chinese-food takeout containers and chopsticks. Get the recipe: Picnic Pasta Salad

These meatballs are tangy and sweet with a little bit of heat. Serve them on toothpicks or stuff them in a bun to make a newfangled meatball sub. Get the recipe: Apricot, Sriracha And Ginger-Glazed Meatballs

Baked not fried, these breaded chicken strips are perfect hot or cold. Add them in the lunchbox or to a picnic basket. But whatever you do, don't forget the dip. Get the recipe: Baked Buttermilk Chicken Strips

There’s no way your kiddos can turn up their noses at these crispy, cheesy nibbles. Plate with a little ketchup for dipping and your brood will never realize (or they won’t care!) that you served them two heads of broccoli as a snack. Get the recipe: Cheesy Baked Broccoli Bites

Ever had a cold potsticker? Turns out they're just as delicious as ones straight from the heat. Pack a little dipping sauce and have fun slam-dunking. Get the recipe: Homemade Ginger Pork Potstickers

Deviled eggs have so much potential beyond the usual mayo and sprinkle of paprika; try dressing them up with our list of add-ons, like smoked salmon, curry paste or bacon. Get the recipe: Deviled Eggs

If you love the rich flavour of tomatoes, you will love this simple sun–dried tomato hummus. It's infused with oregano and fresh lemon for flavour and a kick of brightness. Bring it to parties, picnics, road trips, and everywhere in between. Get the recipe: Simple Sun-Dried Tomato Hummus

No-bake, chewy, chocolatey and loaded with peanut butter? Yep, it's happening. These little balls taste like cookies without all the work (and extra sugar). Get the recipe: No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Balls

Think you can't be bougie on a picnic? Think again. Not just for holidays, a cheese platter or charcuterie board is a friend you want by your side year-round. Here's how to create a legendary one. Pack it all up and assemble once you get to your spot. Don't forget crusty bread. Get the recipe: Cheese Platter

These tasty treats are easy to make in minutes. All you need is an inexpensive can of chickpeas, a bit of oil and some spices. They're addictive as a snack and are great in place of croutons in a salad or to top a bowl of soup. Get the recipe: Roasted Chickpeas

Kids love corn dogs, who are we kidding, adults do, too. Since they’re typically deep-fried, they’re not particularly make-at-home-friendly. This version is made with cornbread batter thick enough to shape around the hot dogs and bake until golden. Pack mustard for dipping. Get the recipe: Baked Corn Dogs

Flavourful beef satay are perfect for backyard barbecues or other entertaining. They work just as well as an appetizer as a main course. Get the recipe: Beef Satay With Peanut Sauce

Portable and already portioned, this protein-packed salad is versatile. Instead of the corn, try finely chopped cauliflower, diced apple or a handful of chopped dried apricots. Get the recipe: Curried Chickpea Salad With Quinoa In A Jar

There is always time for cookies, but most especially at picnics. This is the only chocolate chip cookie recipe you will ever need. They are soft, chewy and just a little bit crisp around the edges. Finish it off with a little sprinkle of sea salt. Get the recipe: The Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie

he shortcake crust on these strawberry bars has turbinado sugar, which provides a delightful crunch, while the pecans help out with the butteriness (they can’t help it — that’s just what they do). And what could be a better vehicle for shoveling whipped coconut cream studded with juicy strawberries into your mouth? Get the recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Crunch Bars With Coconut Whipped Cream