Are you looking for fresh and exciting ideas for your next family picnic? Look no further! We’ve put together a collection of five fun and healthy picnic ideas that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also encourage your little ones to try a variety of fruits and vegetables. These ideas are particularly helpful for picky eaters, as they involve creativity and engagement, making mealtime a positive and enjoyable experience. So, pack your picnic basket, grab a blanket, and let’s dive into these delightful ideas!
1. Sandwich Skewers:
Turn ordinary sandwiches into a fun and interactive picnic treat with sandwich skewers. Cut your favourite sandwich fillings into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto colourful skewers. Mix and match ingredients like cheese, meats, and veggies for a burst of flavours and textures. Not only do sandwich skewers make eating more exciting, but they also allow children to customize their own combinations.
2. Rainbow Veg Wraps:
Add a splash of colour to your picnic with rainbow veg wraps. Start with wraps or tortillas and layer them with a variety of colourful veggies such as bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, and lettuce. Roll them up tightly and secure with toothpicks or wrap them in parchment paper for easy handling. These veggie-packed wraps are not only visually appealing but also provide essential nutrients for a well-rounded picnic meal.
3. Rainbow Fruit & Veg Jars:
Create individual rainbow fruit and veg jars for a vibrant and refreshing picnic option. Layer different colourful fruits and vegetables in small mason jars to create a beautiful rainbow effect. Use a variety of options such as berries, melon, grapes, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and snap peas. This creative presentation makes healthy eating more enticing and encourages children to explore a range of flavours.
4. Fruit Kebabs:
Turn fruits into a fun and portable snack with fruit kebabs. Cut a selection of fruits into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers. Mix and match fruits like strawberries, pineapple, grapes, watermelon, and kiwi to create a colourful and tasty assortment. Fruit kebabs make a refreshing and nutritious addition to any picnic, and the skewers add an element of fun for the little ones.
5. Fruit and Veg Platter:
Create a vibrant and nutritious fruit and veg platter that will impress both young and old picnic-goers. Arrange a colourful assortment of sliced fruits and vegetables on a large platter. Include favourites like strawberries, blueberries, oranges, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and baby carrots. You can also add a dip, such as hummus or yogurt, for extra flavour. The array of colours and flavours will entice your family to explore the world of fruits and veggies.
With these five delightful picnic ideas, you can encourage your family, including picky eaters, to try a variety of fruits and vegetables while enjoying a fun and memorable outdoor experience. The creative presentation and interactive nature of these ideas make them perfect for engaging young ones and fostering a positive attitude towards healthy eating. Don’t forget to check out our fussy eating page for additional tips and support in creating a positive eating environment for your family. Happy picnicking!
Ready to tackle fussy eating and create a positive mealtime experience for your family? Check out our comprehensive fussy eating online course for expert guidance and practical strategies. Click here to learn more and enroll today!
Dr Kirsty Porter