As the (third!) bank holiday weekend approaches, it's time to start planning fun outdoor activities - and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious yet nutritious picnic? Be it at a park, beach or even backyard setting, a well-prepared picnic can not only taste delicious but provide essential nourishment.
In this blog post we'll look at a range of healthy yet delectable picnic ideas to keep your energy up all day long!
1. Fresh Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: For a light snack, cut fresh raw vegetables into matchstick pieces such as carrots, peppers, cucumber, and celery for an ideal light meal option. Not only are vegetables low-calorie snacks; they're also packed full of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre! For maximum taste and nutrition, pair your vegetable sticks with protein-packed hummus dip - adding pesto for variation!
2. Bulgur Salad with Seasonal Vegetables: Bulgur salads make an excellent picnic choice because they're both versatile and tasty. Create your perfect dish by combining cooked bulgur wheat with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, roasted carrots, peppers, goat's cheese and fresh herbs; finish it off with balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing.
3. Grilled Chicken Skewers with Tropical Fruit Salsa: Why not switch things up with grilled chicken skewers instead of traditional sausage rolls or cocktail sausages? Simply marinate chunks of chicken in lime juice, garlic and your desired spices before grilling until cooked through. Finish your skewers off by topping with diced mango, pineapple, red onion and coriander for a tropical fruit salsa. This gives you an ideal blend of lean protein, vitamins and natural sweetness.
4. Whole Grain Wraps with Lean Protein: Have you heard how wholegrain bread is healthier than white bread? That is because wholegrain contains more fibre, as well as nutrients, and will therefore keep you feeling full for longer! For an enjoyable and nutritious lunch option, add lean proteins like grilled chicken or turkey and then fill the wraps with spinach, lettuce and tomatoes along with fresh herbs such as parsley for extra crunchiness. You can finish it off with low-fat Greek yoghurt or an avocado spread for extra creaminess and nutrition. Alternatively for vegans: cooked chickpeas could serve as the protein source.
5. Hydrating With Infused Water and Fresh Fruit: Don't forget to pack plenty of hydration when going on picnics during warm bank holiday weekends! If you struggle with drinking enough water, natural flavouring could help. Add slices of citrus fruit, coconut water, cucumber slices and mint leaves in a large jug to flavour it without having to resort to more sugary drinks found in most supermarket beverages. Alternatively, watermelons, grapes or berries not only provide hydration but will satisfy sweet tooths too!
Conclusion: Winning picnic meals this bank holiday weekend doesn't need to be hard or boring! With tasty options ranging from crunchy veggie sticks topped with hummus to lean protein-packed whole grain wraps, there's plenty to keep you feeling full and energised!
