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November 14, 2024 8 min read

Packing a picnic is a delightful way to enjoy nature while savoring delicious food with friends and family. One key component of a successful picnic is having a variety of tasty and easy-to-make sandwiches that cater to different tastes and preferences.

A colorful picnic blanket spread out with 10 mouthwatering sandwiches arranged neatly on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by fresh fruits and a bottle of refreshing lemonade

Choosing the perfect sandwich is essential for an enjoyable outdoor meal. Whether you prefer classic flavors or crave something more adventurous, a well-crafted sandwich can enhance your picnic experience. Get ready to explore a range of ideas that will elevate your picnic game.

1) Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich

A grilled chicken pesto sandwich sits on a checkered picnic blanket, surrounded by fresh fruit, a thermos of lemonade, and a colorful array of other sandwiches

Start by grilling boneless, skinless chicken breasts until fully cooked. Allow the chicken to cool before slicing it thinly.

Prepare a simple pesto sauce by blending fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until smooth. You can also use store-bought pesto for convenience.

Spread a generous amount of pesto on slices of rustic bread, such as ciabatta or sourdough. Layer the sliced grilled chicken on top of the pesto.

Add slices of fresh mozzarella cheese. This will complement the flavors of the pesto and chicken.

For extra crunch and flavor, include a few slices of ripe tomato and fresh spinach leaves. These ingredients will add texture and freshness to your sandwich.

Top with another slice of bread, and press down lightly. If you prefer, you can toast the assembled sandwich in a panini press or on a griddle until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

Wrap your Grilled Chicken Pesto Sandwich in parchment paper for easy transport to the picnic. Bringing along some extra napkins is also a good idea, as the sandwich can be a bit messy.

Serve this sandwich with a side of pickles or chips for a delightful picnic meal.

2) Mediterranean Veggie Wrap

A Mediterranean Veggie Wrap offers a fresh and flavorful option for your picnic. You start with a large whole-wheat tortilla, which provides a sturdy base and a healthy twist.

You’ll want to spread a generous amount of hummus on the tortilla. This provides a creamy texture and rich flavor, acting as both a filling and a spread.

Layer fresh vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, red onions, and shredded carrots. Their crispness adds a delightful crunch.

Include slices of avocado for a creamy element. Avocado also adds healthy fats, making your wrap more satisfying.

Add a handful of mixed greens such as spinach or arugula. These contribute a peppery taste and more nutrients.

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the veggies. Feta adds a salty and tangy kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

For some added zest, drizzle with tzatziki sauce or a simple Greek dressing. This ties the flavors together beautifully.

Roll the tortilla tightly, making sure to tuck in the sides as you go. This helps keep all the ingredients inside.

Wrap it in parchment paper and slice it in half for easy handling during your picnic. Enjoy the blend of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

3) Caprese Sandwich

The Caprese Sandwich offers a fresh and flavorful option. You'll need fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves for this sandwich. The combination is both simple and elegant.

Start by slicing the mozzarella and tomatoes into even pieces. Place a few slices of each on a crusty ciabatta or baguette.

Add fresh basil leaves between the layers of cheese and tomato. This will enhance the flavors and add a fragrant touch.

Drizzle a bit of olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the ingredients. A sprinkle of salt and pepper can also elevate the taste.

To add a bit of texture, you can toast the bread lightly. This will give your sandwich a satisfying crunch.

This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh. So it's a great choice for a quick and delicious picnic treat.

4) Turkey and Avocado Club

The Turkey and Avocado Club is a tasty and nutritious option for your picnic.

Start with whole grain or multigrain bread for added fiber and nutrients. Toast it lightly for better texture.

Layer thin slices of roasted turkey breast and add fresh avocado slices.

For an extra crunch, include crispy bacon strips.

Top with fresh lettuce and ripe tomato slices.

A light spread of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt adds creaminess without overpowering the flavors.

To keep everything together, insert toothpicks before cutting the sandwich into halves or quarters.

This sandwich combines lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables in every bite.

5) Spicy Italian Sub

A mouthwatering Spicy Italian sub sits on a checkered picnic blanket, surrounded by fresh ingredients and a bottle of olive oil

The Spicy Italian Sub is a robust choice for your picnic. Start with a long Italian roll. Make sure it's fresh to capture the essential crunch.

Layer thin slices of spicy salami, pepperoni, and capicola. The trio packs a savory punch. Opt for a mix of mild and hot varieties to balance the flavors.

Add provolone cheese to complement the meats. The cheese should be thinly sliced but enough to cover the sandwich length.

Incorporate shredded lettuce, thinly-sliced tomato, and red onion. These vegetables add a refreshing, crisp texture.

Drizzle with Italian dressing, oil, and vinegar. This will enhance the sandwich's flavors without making it soggy. Use sparingly to maintain balance.

Top with banana peppers or pepperoncini for extra kick. These give the sub a tangy and spicy finish.

Wrap your sub tightly in parchment paper. This keeps everything together and allows the flavors to meld.

Bring along some napkins; this sandwich can get messy. Enjoy a Spicy Italian Sub that’s bursting with bold flavors and textures.

6) Hummus and Veggie Pita

For a refreshing and nutritious option, try a Hummus and Veggie Pita. This sandwich is both light and filling, making it perfect for a summer picnic.

Start with a whole wheat pita pocket. Spread a generous layer of your favorite hummus inside.

Next, add a variety of fresh vegetables. Sliced cucumber, bell peppers, and shredded carrots work well. Add a handful of spinach or arugula for some greens.

For extra flavor, include a sprinkle of feta cheese or some kalamata olives. These ingredients add a nice salty touch.

Finally, wrap the pita tightly in some wax paper or foil to keep it fresh until you're ready to eat.

7) Ham and Swiss Baguette

A classic choice, the Ham and Swiss Baguette offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. Start with a fresh baguette, sliced lengthwise. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on both halves for a mild kick.

Layer on thinly sliced ham, opting for high-quality deli ham for the best taste. Add Swiss cheese slices, ensuring they cover the ham evenly.

For a bit of crunch, include some crisp lettuce leaves or thinly sliced pickles. Close the baguette, pressing it gently to help the ingredients meld together.

Wrap the sandwich in parchment paper or plastic wrap to keep it fresh until you're ready to eat. This sandwich holds up well, making it perfect for a picnic.

8) Roast Beef and Cheddar

A picnic blanket spread out on green grass, with a wicker basket filled with sandwiches, including a hearty roast beef and cheddar creation, surrounded by fresh fruit and a bottle of wine

Roast beef and cheddar is a classic picnic sandwich that offers a satisfying combination of flavors. Start with a sturdy roll or artisan bread to hold up well to the filling.

Layer thin slices of roast beef for a hearty bite and add slices of sharp cheddar cheese. The cheddar's tanginess complements the savory roast beef perfectly.

For added flavor, spread a thin layer of horseradish sauce or Dijon mustard on the bread. Fresh greens like arugula or baby spinach add a refreshing crunch.

Feel free to include some caramelized onions or a few pickle slices for extra zest. Wrap the sandwich tightly to keep everything together until you're ready to enjoy your picnic.

9) Smoked Salmon Bagel

A smoked salmon bagel is a classic choice that’s both simple and luxurious. You'll need fresh bagels, preferably everything or plain bagels, to form a sturdy and flavorful base.

Start by spreading a generous layer of cream cheese on each half of your bagel.

Top the cream cheese with slices of smoked salmon.

Add thin slices of red onion for a bit of sharpness.

You can also include capers to bring a briny, tangy note to your sandwich.

For a touch of freshness, add a few sprigs of fresh dill and some cucumber slices.

Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice.

Wrap your sandwich tightly in parchment paper to keep it together until you’re ready to enjoy.

The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite delightful. It’s perfect for a picnic, providing a satisfying and fuss-free option.

10) Curried Chicken Salad Sandwich

The Curried Chicken Salad Sandwich is a flavorful and exotic option perfect for your picnic. Start with cooked chicken breasts, shredded or diced.

Mix the chicken with a generous spoonful of curry powder. Add in mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Include finely chopped celery, red onion, and apple for crunch and sweetness. Toss these ingredients together until well-coated.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. For added depth, incorporate a handful of golden raisins or chopped nuts.

Serve the curried chicken salad on whole grain bread. Lettuce leaves and tomato slices make a fresh addition.

This sandwich combines savory and sweet flavors, making it a unique picnic choice. Enjoy it chilled for the best experience.

Nutrition For Picnic Sandwiches

Selecting nutritious ingredients for your picnic sandwiches ensures a healthy meal while being outdoors. Understanding caloric values helps you make balanced choices.

Healthy Ingredients

Using wholesome ingredients boosts the nutritional profile of your sandwiches. Opt for whole-grain breads, which contain more fiber and nutrients compared to white bread. Lean proteins like grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu provide essential amino acids without too much fat. Fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers add vitamins, minerals, and hydration.

Include healthy fats from sources such as avocado, nuts, or seeds. Choose low-fat cheese or alternatives to reduce saturated fat intake. Using natural spreads like hummus or mustard instead of mayonnaise reduces added sugars and unhealthy fats.

Caloric Values

Caloric content helps you manage your energy intake. A whole-grain sandwich with lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats can range from 300-500 calories, depending on portion sizes. Here’s a rough estimate:

  • Whole-grain bread: 120-150 calories per slice
  • Lean protein: 100-150 calories per serving
  • Vegetables: 20-30 calories per serving
  • Healthy fats: 50-100 calories per serving

These values allow you to customize your sandwich while maintaining a balanced caloric intake. Keep in mind the caloric values for additional toppings and condiments.

Tips For Packing Picnic Sandwiches

Packing picnic sandwiches requires a few essential tips to ensure they stay fresh and delicious. Focus on keeping your ingredients fresh and preventing soggy bread for the best picnic experience.

Keeping Sandwiches Fresh

Use fresh ingredients to retain taste and texture. Wrap sandwiches tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap to lock in moisture and prevent air exposure. Cold cuts and veggies benefit from being packed with ice packs or a cooler.

Avoid pre-cutting sandwiches too far in advance. If you need to, slicing just before consumption is best. Separate moist ingredients like tomato slices and pickles until you're ready to eat, storing them in small, airtight containers. Airtight containers or bags help too.

Layering is key. Start with drier ingredients like lettuce and cheese before adding wetter items. This helps keep bread from getting too wet. Also, make sure to carry napkins and wipes for easy clean-up.

Avoiding Soggy Bread

Prevent soggy bread by spreading a thin layer of butter or mayonnaise on each slice of bread. This creates a barrier against moisture. Alternatively, using heartier bread like ciabatta or baguettes can provide extra resilience.

Pack condiments separately to be added just before eating. This makes a significant difference in maintaining your bread's texture. When using veggies, consider draining and patting them dry to minimize added moisture.

Using wax paper instead of plastic wrap can help reduce sweating and sogginess during transportation. Furthermore, if you can, toast the bread lightly. This process helps keep it firmer even if it encounters moisture.