When the weather is nice and you’re ready to enjoy a meal outdoors, a fresh salad can be the perfect addition to your picnic spread. Salads are versatile, easy to prepare, and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for outdoor gatherings. Here are three delightful examples of seasonal salads that will brighten up your picnic!
This vibrant salad is perfect for warm summer days, utilizing the freshest berries available. It’s a wonderful side dish or can be enjoyed as a light meal on its own.
Start by washing and drying 4 cups of fresh baby spinach. In a large bowl, combine the spinach with 1 cup of sliced strawberries, 1 cup of blueberries, and 1 cup of raspberries. To add some crunch, sprinkle in 1/2 cup of toasted almonds or walnuts. For the dressing, whisk together 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup of olive oil, a teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving to keep the spinach crisp. This colorful salad is not only beautiful but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice for your picnic.
Notes/Variations: You can add feta cheese for a salty touch or substitute almonds with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Experiment with other seasonal fruits like peaches or blackberries!
As the leaves change and fall arrives, this hearty quinoa salad celebrates the flavors of the season. It’s filling enough to serve as a main dish.
Cook 1 cup of quinoa according to package instructions and let it cool. In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with 1 cup of roasted butternut squash (cubed), 1 cup of cooked and chopped Brussels sprouts, and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries. Add 1/2 cup of crumbled goat cheese for creaminess and flavor. For the dressing, mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of olive oil, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together gently and serve. This salad not only tastes great but also showcases the beautiful colors of autumn.
Notes/Variations: Feel free to add pumpkin seeds for extra crunch, or swap goat cheese for feta. You can also include diced apples for added sweetness.
Celebrate the arrival of spring with this light and refreshing salad that features vibrant green peas and tender asparagus.
Start by blanching 1 cup of asparagus spears cut into 2-inch pieces in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until just tender. Quickly transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. In a large bowl, combine the cooled asparagus with 1 cup of fresh or thawed green peas, 1/4 cup of thinly sliced radishes, and a handful of fresh mint leaves. For the dressing, whisk together 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, a teaspoon of honey, and salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle over the salad before serving and toss gently. This salad is a celebration of spring and is perfect for an outdoor picnic.
Notes/Variations: You can enhance this salad by adding crumbled feta or sliced avocado for creaminess. If you want a bit of crunch, consider tossing in some toasted pine nuts.
These Examples of Seasonal Salads for Outdoor Picnics are sure to impress your friends and family while adding a fresh touch to your outdoor dining experience. Enjoy your picnic!