Enjoy the ultimate alfresco feast with these vegan picnic ideas
It’s finally that time of year when we can pack our picnic baskets, head outside and enjoy the outdoors (for as long as the British weather permits).
Whether you’re planning a fun family outing, a plant-based BBQ or need inspiration for a last-minute vegan picnic, we have plenty of ideas for your portable feast.
From meatless sandwiches to dairy-free desserts, there’s something to suit everyone in our guide.
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Vegan Picnic Sandwiches
1. Coronation Chickpea
No picnic is complete without a show-stopping sandwich, right? We have plenty of vegan sandwich ideas for your outdoor lunch. This recipe by Plant-Based Magazine ticks all the boxes: delicious, creamy, filling and easy to throw together.
It’s ideal if you’re not a fan of meat alternatives but still want a wow-worthy main for your picnic.
2. Chickpea Tuna
Chickpeas also take centre stage in this popular tuna mayo alternative. If you’re enjoying a picnic with kids or fussy eaters, this sandwich by Ethics and Antics is sure to go down a treat.
Complete with a creamy filling, it’s a classic sandwich that will become a family favourite in no time. It’s an easy, budget-friendly recipe and the chickpea tuna will keep for a couple of days in the fridge.
3. Cheatin’ Chicken
Sometimes, the best vegan picnic foods are the ones you improvise. After all, when you want to make the most of the British sunshine, you have to act fast!
The beauty of this vegan chicken sandwich is you can use any sliced meat alternative and mayo of your choice and chuck it together in minutes. Why not throw some dairy-free cheese on there too?
4. Vegan Smoked Salmon Bagels
Although this vegan picnic idea requires more preparation, the result is well worth it. Make your own plant-based version of smoked salmon with a few simple hacks and a simple marinade, leave to set overnight and your picnic lunch is ready.
If you’re looking for another prepare-ahead sandwich fille,r, try this strawberry chia jam recipe.
Vegan Picnic Salads
5. Green Barley Salad
Looking for the ultimate vibrant salad to see in the picnic season? This colourful creation by Clive’s Pies and Romy London proves that vegan salads are far from boring.
Packed with hearty goodness, this healthy salad can make a stand-alone lunch or you can enjoy it alongside a quiche. Be creative and throw in any leftover veggies, fruits, seeds and nuts for a DIY picnic feast.
6. Potato Salad
Need a simple dish that’s packed with plant-powered flavour? Potato salad is one of the most versatile vegan picnic foods.
This recipe by Meat Free Monday is super simple to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it perfect if you’re dining with non-vegans.
7. Quinoa Mexicana Salad
This easy salad recipe by Figs and Fennel is packed with plant-based nutrients, making it one of our favourite vegan picnic food ideas.
It’s also cool and light, so it’s ideal for warm summer days.
8. Nutty Tempeh Salad
If you’re looking for a filling and flavourful recipe, try this nutty tempeh salad with plums by Better Nature. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for the summer months and works well as a side salad or main event.
Vegan Finger Foods
9. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
No picnic is complete without a delicious dip! This red pepper hummus by Trinity’s Kitchen is ideal for enjoying with other foods in your picnic and adds a touch of sweetness to fruit and veg.
10. Vegan Sausage Roll
There’s no picnic classic quite like the sausage roll, and thankfully, there are tons of vegan options to try. If you don’t fancy a supermarket sausage roll, try this recipe by Quorn.
Complete with flaky pastry and moreish filling, it’s the ultimate alfresco snack.
11. Vegan Cheese Scones
Need something savoury for your outdoor feast? These cheese scones by Applewood are must-haves for your plant-based picnic.
The melt-in-your-mouth texture and smoky flavour make these a guaranteed hit and they’re ready in just 25 minutes!
12. Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls
Nothing says ‘vegan picnic’ like rice paper rolls!
These lovely and light summer rolls by Tammy Fry Kelly make delicious finger foods. Packed with vegan prawns and plenty of herbs, it’s a tasty addition to any picnic.
Vegan Picnic Desserts
13. Lemon Shortbread
Shortbread biscuits are go-to comfort foods for a picnic because they won’t melt or spoil.
These simple lemon shortbread cookies by Pippa Kendrick couldn’t be easier to make. Irresistibly crunchy with a summery zest, these biscuits will go down well with kids and adults alike.
14. Vegan Cinnamon Rolls
Who doesn’t love a cinnamon roll? If you have time to prepare ahead of your vegan picnic, these sweet treats are worth the effort.
15. Very Berry Muffins
These berrylicious muffins are so delicious and easy to make. You can add any berries you fancy or whatever is in season to make this yummy snack for your vegan picnic.
