Planet

9 recipes for the perfect beach picnic

From strawberry and chocolate infused bliss balls to a satisfyingly good Maple-Roasted Pumpkin and Apple Salad, we’ve rounded up 9 of our favourite healthy recipes you can pack into your picnic basket and enjoy ocean-side. We’ve included a mix of filling breakfasts, irresistible snacks, and good-for-you lunches so you can enjoy the sand from sun-up to sun-down. Which one will you pack into your picnic basket?

1. Quinoa and Fruit Breakfast Bowl

A quick and healthy breakfast you can make ahead, this quinoa bowl is a fresh and filling brekky you can pack into your picnic basket and enjoy by the sea. Fresh figs and sweet blueberries create an exotic blend, with crunchy activated nuts sprinkled on top for crunch and a good dose of gut-healthy good fats.

 

2. Maple-Roasted Pumpkin and Apple Salad

For a hearty salad that’s satisfyingly sweet and deliciously creamy try this Maple-Roasted Pumpkin and Apple Salad from Jessica Sepel. The combination of rich goat’s cheese and maple-coated pecans adds a decadent twist to an otherwise been-there-eaten-that kind of salad. Toss in some pan-fried chicken for a hit of protein and a well-rounded salad that will keep you nourished and full.

3. Gluten-free Zucchini & Feta Fritters

Pack these veggie fritters for a wholesome and filling breakfast or snack that’s perfect for quelling tummy rumblings so you can spend more time enjoying the sun and sand. Using chickpea flour in place of regular flour kicks up the protein content while the fresh herbs add an irresistible aroma.

4. Healthy Raspberry and Coconut Slice

A no-fail flavour combination that’s a winner with young and old, this healthy version of Raspberry and Coconut Slice from Well Nourished means you won’t feel guilty when you reach for another one. The almond meal base uses coconut oil for all those good-for-you healthy fats with honey or rice malt syrup for a touch of sweetness, and instead of sugar laden jam for the raspberry layer, frozen raspberries and chia seeds create a jam-like sweetness and consistency but with added nutrients.


 

5. Pumpkin, Spinach, and Feta Muffins

Nutritionist Steph Geddes knows good food and her gluten-free Pumpkin, Spinach, and Feta Muffins are a great way to fill the void while you’re out for a day at the beach. Brimming with nutrients, the classic combination of pumpkin and feta is perfectly emphasised by the addition of flavourful herbs.


6. Paleo Beet Hummus

An exotic twist for regular old hummus, this yummy creation from talented nutritionist Liv Kaplan is loaded with good-for-you ingredients. Pack this pretty pink dip with some healthy crackers for a beautiful spread of nibbles that will impress both your friends and your taste buds.


7. Chewy Almond Butter & Sultana Sandwich Cookies

A cookie to rival all cookies, these decadent Sultana Sandwich Cookies are made with a host of delicious and healthy ingredients then slathered with a creamy almond butter and coconut filling. Take them as a snack for morning or afternoon tea, or for a moreish treat your friends and family won’t be able to resist.


8. Brenda Janschek's Mini Quiches

For the lovers of a good savoury snack you can’t go past mini quiches and these ones from Brenda Janschek, made with a divine combination of feta and cream cheese, sprinkled with flavourful veg like cherry tomatoes, red onion, and spinach, will satisfy just about anyone’s craving for a bit of salty goodness (even the kids!) on the beach.


9. Freeze-Dried Strawberry & Pecan Bliss Balls

Bliss balls are a great way to boost your energy, and their make-ahead convenience means all you need to do is throw a few in with the rest of your picnic for a yummy snack the whole family will love. The strawberries have been freeze-dried at their peak, retaining all their nutrients and enhancing their sweetness. Infused with a hint of cacao, the combination of flavours is a match made in bliss ball heaven. 

Sarah Vercoe

Article by Sarah Vercoe

Sarah is a freelance writer and award-winning photographer with a special interest in health, travel, and fitness. Based on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, she can be found hiking the trails of Noosa National Park, or, more likely, chasing after her one year old daughter, Illyana.

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