13 Casual Backyard Picnic Spread Ideas for Easy Entertaining

You know that easy afternoon when the sun is just right and you want tasty food without fuss? These 13 Casual Backyard Picnic Spread Ideas for Easy Entertaining are exactly what you need. Each idea is built for simple prep, bright flavors, and picnic-friendly plating so you can spend time with guests, not in the kitchen.

You’ll find sandwiches, salads, sweet bites, and shareable mains. The Casual Backyard Picnic Spread Ideas for Easy Entertaining focus on make-ahead options, portable dishes, and seasonal twists. Use them to plan a laid-back brunch, a kids-friendly lunch, or a sunset gathering. Pin your favorites, mix and match, and enjoy a calm, delicious outdoor meal with minimal stress.

1. Casual Backyard Picnic Spread Ideas for Easy Entertaining — Lemon-Herb Chicken Salad Croissants

This pillowy croissant sandwich balances bright lemon and fresh herbs with tender chicken. It’s creamy, tangy, and flaky all at once. The mild sweetness of the croissant pairs beautifully with crunchy celery and toasted almonds. It’s perfect for casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because it travels well and stacks on a platter. You’ll love the aroma of lemon and herbs as you bite into it.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes (leftover chicken) | Serves: 6

Ingredients (backyard picnic ideas, easy entertaining)

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
• 3/4 cup celery, finely diced
• 1/3 cup toasted slivered almonds, chopped
• 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 6 croissants, split
• Optional: 2 cups mixed greens

Instructions

1. If you’re using leftover roast chicken, shred it into bite-size pieces. Chill if warm.
2. In a large bowl, whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
3. Stir in parsley, chives, celery, red onion, and toasted almonds.
4. Fold the shredded chicken into the dressing. Mix until evenly coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust lemon or salt.
6. Chill the salad for 15–30 minutes to let flavors meld.
7. Gently split croissants and layer with mixed greens, then spoon generous portions of chicken salad.
8. Press sandwiches lightly and wrap in parchment if transporting.
9. Serve within 2 hours at room temperature. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

How to Serve It

Serve on a wooden board with lemon wedges and extra chopped chives. Garnish with a sprinkle of almonds for crunch. Pair with iced tea or a crisp white wine. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2–3 days. Make chicken salad up to 24 hours ahead for easy picnic assembly.

2. Charcuterie Picnic Board with Seasonal Fruit

This charcuterie board is a relaxed, mix-and-match centerpiece. You get savory cured meats, creamy and firm cheeses, and pops of seasonal fruit. Texture contrasts—crunchy crackers, soft cheese, juicy fruit—make each bite interesting. It’s a staple for casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because everyone helps themselves. You’ll enjoy arranging colorful bites and watching them disappear.

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Serves: 6–8

Ingredients (picnic recipes, outdoor entertaining)

• 6 oz soft cheese (brie or goat cheese)
• 6 oz firm cheese (cheddar or manchego), sliced
• 4 oz prosciutto, folded
• 4 oz salami, sliced
• 1 cup seedless grapes
• 1 apple, thinly sliced
• 6–8 dried figs or dates, halved
• 1/4 cup roasted nuts (almonds or walnuts)
• 1/3 cup fig jam or honey
• 1 cup mixed crackers or baguette slices
• Fresh herbs for garnish (rosemary or thyme)
• Olives (optional) 1/2 cup

Instructions

1. Choose a large wooden board or platter and clean it.
2. Place cheeses spaced apart for balance. Leave whole soft cheese for spreading.
3. Fold prosciutto and fan salami around cheeses to create layers.
4. Add jam or honey in a small bowl near cheeses. Include a honey dipper.
5. Fill gaps with grapes, apple slices, dried figs, and nuts.
6. Arrange crackers or baguette slices in a few stacks.
7. Garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs and place a bowl of olives if using.
8. Keep chilled until serving. Replace fruit slices if they brown after 1–2 hours.

How to Serve It

Serve with small cheese knives and cocktail picks. Suggest pairings like rosé, lager, or sparkling water with lemon. Store leftover meats and cheeses separately in airtight containers for 3–4 days. Make boards ahead by prepping components; assemble 30 minutes before guests arrive. Seasonal fruit keeps the board feeling fresh.

3. Casual Backyard Picnic Spread Ideas for Easy Entertaining — Mini Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

These bite-sized Caprese skewers are fresh, simple, and picture-perfect. Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and bright basil create classic Italian flavor. A sweet balsamic glaze ties it together with a glossy finish. They’re ideal for casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because guests can grab one and keep mingling. You’ll love the herb-scented aroma and the pop of color.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes (reduce glaze) | Serves: 8 (about 24 skewers)

Ingredients (picnic recipes, easy entertaining)

• 24 cherry tomatoes
• 24 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
• 24 fresh basil leaves
• 24 3-inch wooden skewers
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 tbsp honey

Instructions

1. Make the glaze: pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan with brown sugar.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Reduce to low and simmer 4–6 minutes until syrupy. Remove from heat and cool.
4. Thread tomato, basil, and mozzarella onto each skewer.
5. Drizzle olive oil lightly over skewers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer skewers to a platter and brush with cooled balsamic glaze.
7. If glaze thickens too much, whisk in 1 tbsp warm water to loosen.
8. Chill for 10–15 minutes or serve immediately.

How to Serve It

Arrange skewers on a long white platter and drizzle extra glaze tableside. Garnish with torn basil and flaky sea salt. Pair with chilled prosecco or lemonade. Make glaze up to 48 hours ahead and store in refrigerator. Assemble skewers 30 minutes before serving to keep basil fresh.

4. Herbed Dijon Potato Salad

This herbed potato salad gets brightness from Dijon and fresh herbs. Tender potatoes soak up a tangy, slightly creamy dressing. It’s got soft texture with herbaceous crunch from chives and celery. You’ll reach for it at any picnic because it’s hearty and keeps well. The aroma of mustard and parsley feels homey and fresh.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes | Serves: 6

Ingredients (backyard picnic ideas, picnic recipes)

• 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

1. Place potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water.
2. Add 1 tsp salt and bring to a boil, then simmer 10–12 minutes until tender.
3. Drain and let potatoes cool slightly for 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon, and apple cider vinegar.
5. Fold in celery, red onion, parsley, and chives.
6. Add warm potatoes to dressing and gently toss.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
8. Chill for 1 hour for flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

How to Serve It

Spoon into a shallow bowl and sprinkle extra chives. Pair with grilled meats or a chilled white wine. Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Make this potato salad the day before for best flavor.

5. Casual Backyard Picnic Spread Ideas for Easy Entertaining — Lemon Orzo Pasta Salad with Peas and Feta

This lemon orzo salad is light, tangy, and satisfying. Tiny orzo grains hold the zesty dressing, while peas add sweet pop and feta brings salty creaminess. It travels well and tastes great at room temperature. It’s one of those Casual Backyard Picnic Spread Ideas for Easy Entertaining that you can make ahead and forget about. You’ll love the citrusy aroma and soft, chewy texture.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 8–10 minutes | Serves: 6–8

Ingredients (picnic recipes, outdoor entertaining)

• 12 oz orzo pasta
• 1 1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1–2 lemons)
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook orzo according to package, 8–10 minutes, until al dente.
2. In the last minute, add frozen peas to blanch. Drain and rinse under cold water.
3. Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
4. Add drained orzo and peas, toss to coat.
5. Fold in feta, mint, and parsley.
6. Stir in toasted pine nuts if using.
7. Chill 30–60 minutes to let flavors marry. Taste before serving.
8. If dressing seems dry, drizzle 1–2 tbsp extra olive oil.

How to Serve It

Serve in a shallow bowl with lemon wedges on the side. Garnish with extra mint and a sprinkle of pine nuts. Pair with grilled chicken or chilled rosé. Make the salad up to 24 hours ahead for easy reheating-free service. Store in the fridge for 2–3 days.

6. Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad with Lime

Charred corn gives sweet, smoky notes to this creamy avocado salad. The lime brightens, while red pepper adds crunch and color. It’s quick to make and stands up well at room temperature. This salad fits casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because it’s vibrant and forgiving. You’ll love the smoky aroma and the silky avocado texture.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 8 minutes | Serves: 6

Ingredients (backyard picnic ideas, picnic recipes)

• 4 ears corn, husks removed
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
• Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese

Instructions

1. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Brush corn with olive oil and grill 6–8 minutes, turning until lightly charred.
3. Let corn cool slightly, then cut kernels off the cob.
4. In a bowl, whisk lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add corn kernels, red pepper, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
6. Gently fold in diced avocado to avoid mashing.
7. Top with cotija cheese if using and adjust salt to taste.
8. Chill 10–15 minutes or serve immediately.

How to Serve It

Spoon into a shallow serving bowl and garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro. Pair with grilled fish or margaritas. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 1–2 days; avocado may darken—squeeze extra lime to slow browning. Make the corn ahead and assemble with avocado just before serving.

7. Sticky Honey-Mustard Drumsticks

These sticky drumsticks get a glossy coat of honey and Dijon mustard. The skin crisps on the grill and the glaze caramelizes. They’re finger-friendly and crowd-pleasing. This recipe works well in casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because it’s hearty and simple to serve. You’ll smell sweet, tangy glaze as it caramelizes.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 30–35 minutes | Serves: 6

Ingredients (picnic recipes, outdoor entertaining)

• 12 chicken drumsticks (about 3 lbs)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium (about 375–400°F) or preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk honey, Dijon, apple cider vinegar, garlic, soy sauce, and smoked paprika.
3. Toss drumsticks with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill chicken 25–30 minutes, turning every 6–8 minutes, brushing with glaze in the last 8–10 minutes.
5. If baking, place on a lined sheet and roast 30–35 minutes, brushing glaze the last 10 minutes until caramelized.
6. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part.
7. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
8. Sprinkle sesame seeds and parsley before plating.

How to Serve It

Serve on a platter with lemon wedges and extra glaze on the side. Pair with cold beer or iced tea. Store leftovers in fridge for 3–4 days and reheat in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Make marinade and glaze up to 24 hours ahead.

8. Strawberry Basil Tartlets (No-Bake)

These no-bake tartlets combine sweet strawberries with herbal basil and creamy filling. The buttery crust is crisp, while the filling is light and fluffy. They’re small, easy to pass around, and ideal for warm-weather picnics. You’ll love the fragrant basil and the juicy strawberry bite.

Prep time: 20 minutes | Chill time: 1 hour | Serves: 12 tartlets

Ingredients (backyard picnic ideas, picnic recipes)

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup strawberry jam, warmed
• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil
• Optional: zest of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar.
2. Press 1–2 tbsp of crumb mixture into each tartlet cup to form a crust.
3. Chill crusts for 15 minutes to set.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Set aside.
5. In another bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla to soft peaks.
6. Fold whipped cream into cream cheese until light and smooth.
7. Pipe or spoon filling into chilled crusts.
8. Brush sliced strawberries with warmed strawberry jam and arrange on top.
9. Sprinkle basil and lemon zest. Chill at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve It

Arrange tartlets on a dessert platter with extra basil leaves. Pair with sparkling water or rosé. Store in the fridge for 24–48 hours. Make crusts and filling a day ahead; assemble strawberries shortly before serving to keep them bright.

9. Casual Backyard Picnic Spread Ideas for Easy Entertaining — Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

This chickpea salad is hearty, tangy, and full of Mediterranean flavors. Chickpeas give a satisfying bite while olives and feta add briny contrast. It’s perfect for casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because it’s robust and holds up at room temperature. You’ll appreciate the citrusy dressing and the colorful mix on the table.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Serves: 6

Ingredients (picnic recipes, outdoor entertaining)

• 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and parsley.
2. Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
4. Fold in crumbled feta gently to avoid breaking it up too much.
5. Let sit at room temperature 15–30 minutes to meld flavors.
6. Taste and adjust salt or lemon as needed.
7. Chill up to 2 hours if you prefer a colder salad.
8. Serve within 6 hours for best texture.

How to Serve It

Serve in a shallow bowl with extra parsley and lemon wedges. Pair with pita, grilled lamb, or chilled white wine. Store leftovers in fridge for 2–3 days. Make this salad a few hours ahead—flavors deepen after resting.

10. Blueberry Lemon Scones (Portable)

These scones combine zesty lemon and juicy blueberries in a tender, crumbly pastry. They’re lightly sweet and hold up well for picnics. The texture is flaky with a golden top and soft interior. They’re great for casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because they’re easy to pack and share. You’ll enjoy the bright lemon scent and burst of blueberry.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 18–20 minutes | Serves: 8 scones

Ingredients (backyard picnic ideas, picnic recipes)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3/4 cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing
• 1 large egg, cold
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk cream, egg, vanilla, and lemon zest.
5. Fold wet ingredients into dry until just combined. Gently fold in blueberries.
6. Turn dough onto a floured surface, pat into an 8-inch circle, and cut into 8 wedges.
7. Place wedges on the baking sheet, brush with extra cream.
8. Bake 18–20 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Cool 10 minutes on a rack, then drizzle glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.

How to Serve It

Arrange scones on a tiered stand or board. Serve with jam and butter. Store in an airtight container for 1–2 days; refresh in a 325°F oven for 5–7 minutes. Make dough ahead and cut scones the morning of your picnic for fresher results.

11. Cold Sesame Noodle Salad with Crisp Veggies

These cold sesame noodles are nutty, savory, and satisfyingly slurpable. The sesame-ginger dressing coats each strand, while crisp veggies add bite. It’s a great add-on for casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because it’s easily portioned and served cool. You’ll enjoy the fragrant sesame and the crunch of fresh vegetables.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 8–10 minutes | Serves: 6–8

Ingredients (picnic recipes, outdoor entertaining)

• 12 oz spaghetti or thin wheat noodles
• 1/3 cup creamy tahini
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup julienned carrots
• 1 cucumber, seeded and julienned
• 3 scallions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Cook noodles according to package until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Whisk tahini, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic in a large bowl.
3. Add cooled noodles and toss to coat.
4. Fold in carrots, cucumber, and scallions.
5. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and cilantro if using.
6. Chill 15–30 minutes to meld flavors.
7. Taste and adjust soy or vinegar for salt and brightness.
8. Serve cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve It

Serve in a shallow bowl with extra sesame seeds and lime wedges. Pair with grilled shrimp or tofu skewers. Store for 2–3 days in the fridge; toss before serving. Make the dressing and chop veggies ahead for quick assembly.

12. Watermelon, Feta & Mint Salad with Lime Drizzle

This watermelon salad is sweet, salty, and intensely refreshing. Juicy cubes of watermelon contrast with crumbly feta and cooling mint. A lime drizzle adds tang and makes the flavors pop. It’s an essential pick for casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because it’s light and hydrating on hot days. You’ll notice the minty cool scent as soon as you serve it.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 0 minutes | Serves: 6

Ingredients (backyard picnic ideas, picnic recipes)

• 6 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/3 cup fresh mint leaves, torn
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tsp lime zest
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pepitas

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine watermelon, red onion, and torn mint.
2. Whisk olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pour dressing over the watermelon mixture and toss gently.
4. Scatter crumbled feta on top and add toasted pepitas if using.
5. Chill 10–15 minutes or serve immediately.
6. Taste and adjust lime or salt as needed.
7. Serve within 2–3 hours for best texture.

How to Serve It

Serve on a chilled platter with extra mint sprigs. Pair with grilled seafood or light cocktails. Store leftovers in the fridge for 1 day; watermelon may soften. Make the dressing ahead and toss just before serving.

13. No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Bars

These no-bake bars are chewy, nutty, and satisfyingly chocolatey. Oats and peanut butter make them filling, while honey binds everything. They’re perfect picnic snacks that travel well and keep energy up. This is a great addition to casual backyard picnic spread ideas for easy entertaining because no oven is required. You’ll love the rich peanut aroma and soft texture.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Chill time: 2 hours | Serves: 12 bars

Ingredients (picnic recipes, outdoor entertaining)

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup finely chopped peanuts
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 6 oz dark chocolate, chopped (for topping)
• 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for glaze)

Instructions

1. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment, leaving overhang.
2. In a large bowl, stir peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add oats, cocoa powder, chopped peanuts, coconut, vanilla, and salt.
4. Fold in mini chocolate chips and mix until evenly combined.
5. Press mixture firmly into the prepared pan in an even layer.
6. Melt dark chocolate with coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
7. Pour melted chocolate over the pressed mixture and spread evenly.
8. Chill in the fridge at least 2 hours until firm.
9. Use parchment overhang to lift bars from pan and cut into 12 squares.

How to Serve It

Serve on a small platter with napkins for sticky fingers. Pair with cold coffee or milk. Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for 1–2 weeks. Make them up to a week ahead for stress-free picnics.

These 13 Casual Backyard Picnic Spread Ideas for Easy Entertaining give you a balanced mix of mains, sides, snacks, and sweets. You’ve got make-ahead salads, grab-and-go sandwiches, grill-ready mains, and portable desserts to suit any crowd. Try a few recipes, pin the ones you love, and mix them into a single spread for variety.

Which of these ideas will you make first for your next picnic? Share the list with friends or family and plan a simple outdoor meal together. You’ll be rewarded with relaxed conversation and plenty of delicious bites.