WHETHER IT’S A LAZY AFTERNOON UNDER THE GUM TREES OR A SUNNY ESCAPE BY THE RIVER, A GOOD PICNIC IS ALL ABOUT KEEPING THINGS SIMPLE, FRESH, AND FUN.
From delicious bites to practical must-haves, here’s a list of items to make your next picnic a breeze — plus a few easy recipes to get your basket started.
10 picnic essentials
Picnic blanket: Large, soft, and waterproof underneath if possible.
Cooler or insulated bag: Keeps drinks and perishables perfectly chilled.
Reusable plates, cups and cutlery: Lightweight and eco-friendly.
Napkins or paper towels: Because spills happen.
Rubbish bag: Leave nothing behind but footprints.
Sunscreen and insect repellent: Especially important in the Aussie outdoors.
Portable speaker or book: Set the mood or enjoy some quiet.
Games or activities: Think frisbee, footy or a pack of cards.
Drinks: Sparkling water, juice, iced tea or a chilled bottle of wine.
Food and snacks: Easy-to-pack recipes.
Recipe inspiration
Roast chicken and pesto wraps: Sliced roast chicken, baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a swipe of pesto in a soft tortilla. Roll and wrap for easy eating.
Cheese platter: A mix popular cheeses like double brie, blue vein, camembert, smoked cheese and vintage tasty.
No-bake choc-oat bites: Rolled oats, cocoa, peanut butter, and honey mixed together and chilled in bite-sized balls.
Must try recipes
Cheese & Veg Savoury Muffins
Ingredients:
- 1 cup self-raising flour
- 1 cup grated zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture)
- ½ cup grated carrot
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar works well)
- ¼ cup chopped chives or spring onion
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional add-ins: Chopped ham, sun-dried tomatoes or baby spinach.
Method:
Preheat oven to 180°C (fan forced) and grease or line a muffin tray.
In a large bowl, mix the flour, grated veg, cheese, and herbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, oil, salt and pepper.
Combine wet and dry ingredients gently — don’t overmix.
Spoon into muffin tray and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and firm.
Cool slightly before packing for your picnic.
Creamy Herb & Feta Dip
Ingredients:
- 200g feta cheese
- ½ cup Greek yoghurt
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 small garlic clove, crushed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or mint)
- Cracked pepper to taste
Method:
Place feta, yoghurt, lemon juice, and garlic in a food processor or blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Stir through chopped herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
Add pepper to taste. Chill until ready to serve.
Perfect with: Veggie sticks, crackers, crusty bread, or spread inside wraps.