• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
No Sweat Vegan
  • About
  • Recipes
    • Quick & Easy Vegan Meals
    • Dinner Entrées
    • Kid-Friendly Vegan Recipes
    • Tofu Recipes
    • Air Fryer Recipes
    • Italian Recipes
    • Mexican Recipes
    • Asian Recipes
    • Indian Recipes
    • Salads & Salad Dressings
    • Side Dishes
    • Desserts
    • Breakfast
    • Lunch Recipes
    • Appetizers & Snacks
    • Condiments & Sauces
    • Holiday & Seasonal Recipes
    • Recipe Collections
  • Resources
    • Shop
  • Free E-Book
  • Meal Planning Printables
  • Subscribe!
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Subscribe!
  • Free E-Book
  • Meal Planning Printables
  • About No Sweat Vegan
  • Resources
  • Dinner Entrées
  • Quick & Easy Vegan Meals
  • Kid-Friendly Vegan Recipes
  • Tofu Recipes
  • Air Fryer Recipes
  • Italian Recipes
  • Mexican Recipes
  • Asian Recipes
  • Indian Recipes
  • Salads & Salad Dressings
  • Desserts
  • Side Dishes
  • Appetizers & Snacks
  • Condiments & Sauces
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch Recipes
  • Holiday & Seasonal Recipes
  • Recipe Collections
  • Shop
×

Home » Recipes

Epic Vegan Picnic Ideas

Published: 24 Jun 2022 · Updated: 29 Jul 2022 by Julianne Lynch · This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases · Leave a Comment

69 shares
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Yummly
  • Email
Vegan picnic ideas collage.
Vegan picnic ideas collage.

Ready to pack up an Epic Vegan Picnic? Then check out this collection of Vegan Picnic Ideas and Recipes. From Snacks and Dips to Sandwiches and Desserts, you're sure to find all the inspiration you need.

Vegan picnic ideas collage.

Nothing says summer quite like a picnic! But what to do if you want to keep it plant-based? Not to worry! This collection offers an array of vegan recipes and ideas that are sure to please a crowd! Move over soggy sandwiches and greasy potato chips! This collection of Vegan Picnic Ideas will take your picnic game to a whole new level!

I love packing picnic lunches for my family. Whether it's a long pool day or a lazy afternoon in the park, I'm always ready to pack up a cooler and spread my picnic blanket with an array of goodies.

In this post, I want to first break down the components of a good picnic, and then share some recipes that are perfect for packing. Let's get started.

Jump to:
  • Tips for packing an epic vegan picnic!
  • Snacks
  • Dips
  • Salads
  • Sandwiches, Wraps, & More
  • Tacos & Toppings
  • Muffins & Desserts
  • Related recipes

You'll love these Vegan Picnic recipes because they're:

  • Quick & Easy
  • Vegan / Vegetarian
  • Kid-friendly
  • Easy to make Gluten-Free
  • Easy to make WFPB
  • Perfect for picnics, packed lunches, potlucks, and more!
  • Simple & Delicious!

Best picnic ideas collage.

Tips for packing an epic vegan picnic!

To me, the key to an amazing picnic lies somewhere in the center of variety and simplicity. I want to "make" a recipe or two, and fill the rest of my Tupperware with super easy components like fruits, veggies, olives, etc.

Whenever I pack for a picnic, I also think about including a variety of simple sweet and savory foods. Just like any vegan meal, you want to be sure to include fruits, vegetables, carbs, healthy fats, and proteins.

Let me break down some of my favorite choices when packing a picnic lunch.

Best Picnic Fruits

Fruit is great on its own or you can pair it with a dipping sauce (yogurt, nut butter, or chocolate sauce are all great choices). When it comes to what fruits to pack, I think almost anything you like is perfect for a picnic.

Some of my personal favorites include watermelon, strawberries, raspberries, grapes, apples, and cantaloupe. Dried fruits like raisins, craisins, apricots, and figs are also a great choice.

Pro-tip: If you pre-slice your apples, toss them with a little lemon juice or orange juice to keep them from going brown.

Best Picnic Veggies

When picking veggies for a picnic, I usually go for the ones my kids and I like eating raw. That includes cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, and snap peas. Bonus because these all require little to no prep work. Bell peppers are also great but need a little more time to prep.

Pro-tip: Pair your veggies with a dip like this oil-free hummus for a little added protein.

Best Picnic Carbs

No picnic is complete without a little carby goodness. Pretzels and crackers are an easy choice that kids will love. I'm personally fond of grabbing a baguette for pairing with a variety of spreads.

Healthy Fats & Protein

If you're an olive lover like me, then no picnic is complete without an array of olives! Guacamole is also a great choice for pair with tortilla chips, bread, or veggies.

You can get your protein from hummus, bean dips, nut butter, tofu, or tempeh--see the recipes below for those last two.


Vegan kids snack board with veggies, hummus, apple slices, cashew butter, graps, pretzels, whole wheat crackers, raisins, and dried apricots.

Enough about that! Let's get to the recipes!

Snacks

Simple snacky foods are at the heart of any good picnic. I love a mix of fresh fruit, dried fruit, veggies, olives, and crunchy snacks. If you want to elevate your picnic snacks, then check out these ideas.

Pro Tip: Crunchy snacks like roasted chickpeas and pasta chips can lose their crunch if they are packed in air-tight containers. That's because any natural moisture won't have a way to escape. Instead, pack them in a container with a vent or a loosely tied bag.

Vegan Charcuterie Board (Vegan Snack Board)
A Vegan Charcuterie Board (aka Vegan Snack Board) is an easy and fun picnic spread. Gather round and sample a variety of vegan goodies like veggies, dips, hummus, nuts, fruit, and more.
Grab the recipe!
Crispy Roasted Chickpeas 4 Ways (No Oil)
Crispy & crunchy roasted chickpeas make the perfect plant-based snack! Choose your favorite flavor combination: Vegan Parmesan & Garlic, Maple Cinnamon, Tandoori Lime, or Sweet & Spicy Chili. This recipe is simple, easy, and sure to satisfy your snack cravings.
Grab the recipe!
Three kinds of Air Fryer Pasta Chips in bowls.
Air Fryer Pasta Chips 3 Ways! (Oil-free)
Air Fryer Pasta Chips are crispy, crunchy, and delicious. Perfect for snacking or adding to a party buffet! Works with all types of pasta including regular, whole wheat, and gluten-free. Choose from three flavors: Curry, Sweet BBQ, and Vegan Ranch.
Grab the recipe!

For even more snack ideas, be sure to grab my free Vegan Snacks for Kids Printable!

Dips

Dips are great to pair with a variety of simple foods like raw veggies, fruits, tortilla chips, or a sliced baguette. You can even serve dessert dips with sliced fruit or pretzels!

Best hummus recipe.
Oil Free Hummus (Classic & Extra Creamy!)
You won't believe how creamy and decadent this Oil-free Hummus is. Perfect for dipping veggies, adding to a sandwich, and more. You'll never want to buy store-bought hummus again.
Grab the recipe!
Buffalo chickpea dip recipe.
Buffalo Chickpea Dip (Vegan + Oil-free)
This Buffalo Chickpea Dip is the perfect balance of creamy and spicy. You just need a handful of ingredients to make this delicious dip. It's great served warm or cold as a picnic dip, but it can also be added to wraps, sandwiches, and more!
Grab the recipe!
creamy vegan Italian dressing
Vegan Italian Dressing
This Vegan Italian Dressing is rich and creamy, yet oil-free! With cashews and just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can whip up this versatile plant-based dressing in minutes. Perfect for dipping veggies or topping salads!
Grab the recipe!
Vegan chocolate sauce recipe.
Vegan Chocolate Sauce
This Vegan Chocolate Sauce is so fudgy and delicious you won't believe it has just three ingredients! You can whisk up this refined sugar-free sauce in mere minutes. Drizzle over a vegan ice-cream sundae or serve with fruit as a mouth-watering dessert dip.
Grab the recipe!

Salads

Depending on the type of picnic you're having, having a few large salads to share is a great way to add variety and a sense of togetherness. Here I have collected a few of my favorite simple salads that will be perfect for your next vegan picnic!

Pro-Tip: If you're packing salads, don't forget two important details--plates and cutlery! I highly recommend going with reusable or compostable brands because all that trash can add up fast.

Zesty quinoa salad recipe.
Zesty Quinoa Salad
This Zesty Quinoa Salad is full of vibrant flavors and colors. Made with black beans, mango, lime juice, and more, this vegan quinoa salad makes a perfect meal-prep lunch, light summer dinner, or BBQ side dish!
Grab the recipe!
Spinach salad with strawberries, avocado, red onion, pecans, vegan bacon bits, and creamy balsamic dressing.
Spinach, Avocado, & Strawberry Salad
This Vegan Spinach Avocado & Strawberry Salad makes a delicious light meal or BBQ side dish. Pecans and vegan bacon bits add richness and crunch, while the creamy balsamic dressing adds tanginess. Perfect for summer or any time of year!
Grab the recipe!
Best vegan broccoli salad.
Vegan Broccoli Salad (No Mayo)
This Vegan Broccoli Salad is creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty. Made with vegan bacon bits and a Cashew & Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing, this No-Mayo Broccoli Salad is a healthier version of the potluck classic! Perfect for sharing at your next BBQ, cookout, or picnic.
Grab the recipe!
easy, creamy, oil free vegan potato salad
Creamy Vegan Potato Salad (Oil-Free!)
This easy and creamy Vegan Potato Salad is so rich and luscious you'd never know it's oil-free. Perfect for serving at a summer cookout or picnic. Your non-vegan friends and family won't believe how much it tastes like the real thing!
Grab the recipe!
Vegan Pesto Pasta Salad with Roasted Veggies and Chickpeas (Oil-Free!)
Vegan Pesto Pasta with Roasted Veggies (Oil-Free!)
Fun fusilli pasta, creamy vegan pesto, earthy chickpeas, and bright roasted vegetables, combine for a quick, easy, and colorful vegan pesto pasta salad. This recipe is oil-free but full of flavor. Serve cold as a perfect side dish for a summer potluck or picnic!
Grab the recipe!

Sandwiches, Wraps, & More

You are very welcome to fall back on a classic PB & J, but if you want to add a little variety to your picnic basket, then check out these options. Don't be afraid to think outside of the box!

Vegan chickpea salad sandwich.
Vegan Curry Chickpea Salad
This vegan chickpea salad is quick, easy, and versatile. It combines the aromatic spices of the curry powder with the crunch of the veggies and the earthiness of the chickpeas. Bring it all together with vegan mayo or yogurt and serve it as a sandwich, salad, or wrap.
Grab the recipe!
Three vegan Po Boys on a plate.
Tofu Po' Boy (Vegan & Oil-Free)
These Vegan Po' Boys are made with seasoned tofu nuggets and vegan remoulade. Pile on french bread with lettuce, tomato, and hot sauce, for a hearty, filling, and delicious Cajun-inspired sandwich.
Grab the recipe!
Vegan breakfast burrito recipe.
Vegan Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast for lunch? Yes, please! These Vegan Breakfast Burritos are filled to the brim with tempeh bacon, tofu scramble, tater tots, avocado, salsa, and vegan sour cream! Make up a big batch to share at your next vegan picnic.
Grab the recipe!
Best toast topping ideas.
Sweet & Savory Toast
These Vegan Toast Ideas are not just for breakfast! They also make an easy and delicious addition to any picnic. Choose from the suggested savory or sweet toppings, or mix and match. With so many possibilities, you're sure to find a new favorite!
Grab the recipe!
Best vegan BLT recipe.
Vegan BLT (Healthy + Oil-Free)
Nothing hits home when you're craving a sandwich quite like a Vegan BLT! Tempeh bacon, lettuce, tomato, and avocado piled high on whole-wheat toast slathered with vegan mayo or oil-free aioli. Sign me up! This healthy vegan sandwich makes the perfect picnic sandwich.
Grab the recipe!
Vegan Deviled Egg Crostini
Vegan Deviled Egg Salad
Not only is this deviled-egg salad super easy to make, but it's also 100% vegan. Firm tofu creates the right texture, while the kala namak offers the perfect eggy flavor. Pile on bread for a sandwich or serve open-faced on crostini.
Grab the recipe!

Tacos & Toppings

I know what you're thinking. Tacos for a picnic! But trust me on this. Tacos make a perfect picnic treat. Just prep all the components beforehand and pack them up in small containers. When you reach your picnic destination, lay everything out on a blanket, and you've got your own taco bar!

Best vegan carne asada recipe.
Vegan Carne Asada Tacos
These Vegan Carne Asada Tacos are made with TVP and a smokey, citrusy marinade. You won't believe how well this recipe replicates the flavor and texture of Carne Asada. Serve warm or cold as the main protein at your next taco picnic!
Grab the recipe!
Restaurant Style Salsa
Restaurant-Style Salsa
This restaurant-style salsa is easy to prepare and tastes so bright and delicious--just like restaurant salsa. Enjoy with your favorite tortilla chips or use as a topping for salads, burritos, or vegan quesadillas.
Grab the recipe!
best vegan tacos
Vegan Street Tacos
These Vegan Street Tacos are an easy and delicious way to swap your favorite Mexican takeout for a healthy, homemade meal. Topped with Chili-Lime Tofu, Pico de Gallo, and Vegan Chipotle Mayo, these are sure to become your Taco Tuesday go-to.
Grab the recipe!
Vegan chipotle mayo with limes.
Vegan Chipotle Mayo (Oil-Free & Soy-Free)
Take any dish to the next level with this Vegan Chipotle Mayo. It's creamy and delicious, with a spicy kick that can't be beat! Perfect for pairing with tacos, French fries, roasted veggies, and more.
Grab the recipe!

Muffins & Desserts

What makes a good picnic dessert? It has to travel well. Bonus points if it doesn't require refrigeration. Here are some of my favorites!

Best vegan raspberry muffin recipe.
Vegan Raspberry Muffins (Whole Wheat + Oil-Free)
These Vegan Raspberry Muffins are fluffy, tart, and lightly sweetened. Made in just 1 bowl, they're whole wheat, oil-free, and perfect for a healthy breakfast, snack, or even dessert. Throw in optional ad-ins like chocolate chips or walnuts for an even more delicious treat!
Grab the recipe!
Girl Scout Cookie Inspired Bliss Balls in three bowls: Thin Mint, Lemon, and Samoas.
Bliss Balls! 3 Girl Scout Cookie Inspired Recipes (Vegan & Oil-free)
These Bliss Balls are inspired by three of my favorite Girl Scout Cookies: Caramel deLites, Lemonades, and Thin Mints. You just need a food processor and a handful of simple ingredients for a delicious, vegan, WFPB version of these nostalgic treats!
Grab the recipe!
Vegan oatmeal raisin cookies stacked.
Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies (Oil-Free & Refined-Sugar-Free)
Soft, chewy, and full of flavor, these Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies make a delicious dessert--or a healthy breakfast. Since they're oil and refined sugar-free you can feel good about eating them any time of day!
Grab the recipe!
Vegan blackberry muffins in pan.
Vegan Blackberry Muffins (Oil-free & WFPB)
These Vegan Blackberry Muffins are lightly sweetened and topped with a delicious oat streusel! They're whole wheat, oil-free, and refined-sugar-free. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, packed lunches, and dessert!
Grab the recipe!
vegan no-bake pretzel brownie bites
No-Bake Pretzel Brownie Bites
These no-bake brownie bites are quick, easy, and sugar-free! The dates add sweetness, the walnuts and pecans offer depth, while the Dutch-process cocoa gives a rich chocolatey flavor. But the real surprise is the pretzels, which both bind the mixture and add the perfect salty crunch.
Grab the recipe!
Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies (Healthy & Oil-Free)
These Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies make a delicious treat for any occasion. Soft, gooey, and full of flavor, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies in less than 30 minutes. Plus they're oil-free and refined-sugar free!
Grab the recipe!

Related recipes

  • Vegan Black Bean Tacos
  • Lazy Vegan Recipes
  • Vegan Quesadilla Cheese
  • 30+ Vegan Recipes for Kids

Want access to my Exclusive Meal Planning Tips & Printables page?

Did you try this recipe? Have a question? Just leave a comment below and I'll get back to you ASAP!

More Vegan Recipes

  • Air Fryer Frozen Green Beans (Two Ways!)
  • Vegan Avocado Crema (5 minutes!)
  • Best Vegan Potato Recipes
  • Vegan Butternut Squash Soup
69 shares
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Yummly
  • Email

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Let's Get Social

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube
Julianne, founder of No Sweat Vegan.

Hi, I'm Julianne! I love creating simple and comforting vegan food for the whole family. Most of my recipes are healthy, Whole-Foods Plant-Based, and easy on the budget. Thanks for stopping by!

More about me →

Trending

  • Vegan Chick-fil-A style Tofu Nuggets with Vegan Honey Mustard Sauce (Oil-free!)
  • Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies (Healthy, Easy, & Oil-Free)
  • Easy Oil-Free Tofu Nuggets!
  • Quick Oil-Free Vegan Pesto

Recent

  • Vegan Fall Recipes
  • Vegan Pumpkin Pancakes (Oil-free + WFPB)
  • Tofu Curry (Easy + Vegan)
  • Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

Web Stories

Footer

↑ back to top

Legal

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclaimer
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Impressum

Free Meal Planning Tips & Printables!

  • Sign Up for free printables and weekly updates

Contact

  • Contact
  • Media Kit
  • FAQ

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

***

Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to No Sweat Vegan with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.


Copyright © 2020-2022 No Sweat Vegan on the Foodie Pro Theme