Labor Day is the perfect excuse to gather friends and family for a relaxing picnic. Choosing the right food can make the day even more enjoyable. You want dishes that are easy to pack, simple to eat, and tasty enough to satisfy everyone. Whether you prefer classic sandwiches or inventive snacks, there are plenty of affordable ideas that won’t weigh you down. Here’s a list of 33 easy Labor Day picnic food ideas to inspire your next outdoor feast.
1. Classic Turkey and Cheese Sandwiches
Turkey and cheese sandwiches are a picnic staple for a reason. They’re quick to make, budget-friendly, and filling. Use whole wheat or multigrain bread for extra fiber and a heartier bite. Add some crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a smear of mustard or mayo to keep things moist. Wrap each sandwich in parchment paper to prevent sogginess and make them easy to grab. For a DIY twist, set up a sandwich station with different meats, cheeses, and toppings. This way, everyone can customize their own, saving time and trimming food waste.
2. Veggie and Hummus Wraps
Veggie wraps are fresh, crunchy, and light. They’re perfect for those who want something healthy yet satisfying. Use large tortillas or flatbreads and spread a generous layer of hummus for protein and flavor. Fill with thinly sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, carrots, and spinach. Roll tightly and slice into halves or thirds for easy handling. To save money, buy vegetables in bulk and chop them yourself. These wraps hold up well in a cooler and don’t get soggy quickly, making them ideal for picnic days.
3. Caprese Skewers
Caprese skewers are simple and elegant. They combine juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fragrant basil leaves on small wooden sticks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a splash of olive oil right before serving. These skewers are easy to transport and don’t require utensils. To keep costs low, buy mozzarella in bulk and portion it yourself. They add a bright, refreshing touch to your picnic spread and are a great vegetarian option.
4. Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Pasta salad is a picnic classic because it can be made ahead and tastes even better chilled. Use rotini or bowtie pasta for a fun texture. Mix in diced bell peppers, black olives, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and shredded mozzarella or cheddar. Toss everything with a simple Italian dressing made from olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. This dish is budget-friendly since pasta and veggies are affordable staples. Make a large batch to feed a crowd and pack it in a sealed container to keep it fresh.
5. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are easy to prepare and a picnic favorite. Hard-boil eggs, slice them in half, and mix the yolks with a bit of mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper. Spoon or pipe the filling back into the whites. Sprinkle paprika or chopped chives for a pop of color. Eggs are inexpensive and filling, making this a great budget option. Store deviled eggs in an airtight container and keep them chilled until serving to stay safe and tasty.
6. Watermelon and Feta Salad
Watermelon and feta salad is sweet, salty, and refreshing. Cube a seedless watermelon and combine it with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh mint leaves. Add a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. This salad is hydrating and light, perfect for hot weather. Watermelon is affordable during summer, and feta adds a nice tang without breaking the bank. Keep the salad chilled and pack it in a sturdy container to avoid mess.
7. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
BBQ chicken drumsticks are hearty and satisfying. You can grill them the day before and pack them cold or reheat on-site if your picnic spot allows. Use a store-bought BBQ sauce or make a simple marinade with ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar. Chicken drumsticks are cost-effective and easy to handle without utensils. Wrap them individually in foil or pack in a sealed container to keep them juicy and prevent leaks during transport.
8. Fruit Skewers
Fruit skewers are a sweet, portable treat. Use seasonal fruits like pineapple, strawberries, grapes, and kiwi for a rainbow of colors. Cut fruit into bite-sized pieces and thread onto wooden sticks. These skewers are easy to eat and mess-free. Buying fruit in season helps keep costs down. For a DIY touch, let kids make their own fruit skewers as a fun picnic activity. Keep them chilled in a cooler until ready to serve.
9. Cheese and Cracker Platter
A cheese and cracker platter is simple and classy. Choose a few types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, and pepper jack for variety. Add whole grain or multigrain crackers for crunch. Include extras like nuts, dried apricots, or grapes. This platter is easy to assemble and can be customized based on budget. Buying cheese blocks and slicing them yourself saves money. Use small containers for nuts and dried fruit to keep everything tidy during transport.
10. Greek Yogurt and Granola Parfaits
Greek yogurt parfaits are a refreshing, protein-packed option. Layer Greek yogurt with homemade or store-bought granola and fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries. Drizzle honey on top for natural sweetness. Use mason jars or small containers with lids for easy transport and portion control. Making granola at home with oats, honey, and nuts cuts costs and keeps ingredients simple. These parfaits are great for breakfast or dessert at your picnic.
11. Mini Sliders
Mini sliders are fun and filling. Use ground beef or turkey and season simply with salt and pepper. Form small patties to fit slider buns or dinner rolls. Add cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a classic taste. These are easy to eat in a few bites, making them picnic-friendly. Buying meat in bulk and portioning yourself saves money. Wrap each slider in parchment paper or foil to keep them fresh and easy to hand out.
12. Cucumber Tea Sandwiches
Cucumber tea sandwiches are light and elegant. Spread softened cream cheese on thin slices of white or whole wheat bread. Layer with thin cucumber slices and a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives. Cut off the crusts and slice into small rectangles or triangles for easy handling. These sandwiches are affordable and perfect for warmer weather. Keep them chilled and wrapped in parchment paper to avoid sogginess.
13. Roasted Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are crunchy, nutritious, and easy to make. Drain canned chickpeas, pat dry, and toss with olive oil and seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder. Roast in the oven until crispy. This snack is affordable and keeps well at room temperature. Pack in a small container or zip-top bag for easy snacking. It’s a great plant-based protein option that adds variety to your picnic.
14. Caprese Pasta Salad
This pasta salad combines familiar flavors in an easy dish. Cook pasta, then toss with halved cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, and chopped basil. Drizzle with olive oil and a little salt and pepper. It’s simple, colorful, and satisfying. Use dry pasta and fresh ingredients to keep costs low. This dish can be made a day ahead and tastes great cold, which is perfect for outdoor eating.
15. Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a picnic favorite. Grill fresh corn with the husks on or off, then slather with butter and sprinkle with salt or chili powder. Corn is inexpensive and filling. To save time, grill the corn the day before and reheat if possible. Wrap each ear in foil for easy transport and less mess. This classic side pairs well with almost anything on your picnic menu.
16. BLT Sandwiches
BLTs are simple but satisfying. Use crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce with a spread of mayo on toasted bread. This sandwich is quick to assemble and loved by many. Buy bacon in bulk for savings and cook it in the oven to save effort. Wrap sandwiches individually in wax paper to keep them fresh. BLTs are easy to carry and eat without utensils.
17. Pasta with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
Pasta with pesto and cherry tomatoes is a flavorful and easy dish. Cook pasta and toss it with store-bought or homemade pesto. Add halved cherry tomatoes for sweetness and color. This meal is budget-friendly and can be served cold. Making pesto at home with basil, garlic, olive oil, and nuts cuts costs. Pack in a leak-proof container and bring extra parmesan to sprinkle on top.
18. Fresh Fruit Salad
Fresh fruit salad is simple, healthy, and hydrating. Use a mix of seasonal fruits like melon, berries, pineapple, and grapes. Cut into bite-sized pieces and toss gently. This salad is budget-friendly when you use fruits in season. Pack it in a sturdy container and keep chilled to maintain freshness. For a fun twist, add a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of chopped mint.
19. Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic picnic side. Boil potatoes until tender, then mix with mayo, mustard, chopped celery, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper. It’s filling and easy to make in large batches. Use regular potatoes for an affordable option. Keep the salad chilled in a sealed container. This dish pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches.
20. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Chocolate-dipped strawberries add a sweet note to your picnic. Melt inexpensive dark or milk chocolate and dip cleaned strawberries halfway. Let them cool on parchment paper until firm. These treats are easy to make and transport in a small container. Use fresh, in-season strawberries for the best flavor. They’re a simple dessert that feels special without extra cost.
21. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Pita Pockets
Stuffed pita pockets are convenient and tasty. Fill pocket bread with cooked spinach, feta cheese, and fresh cucumber slices. These are handheld and mess-free. They can be made ahead and wrapped tightly for transport. Pita bread is affordable and stores well. This combo offers a nice balance of greens and protein, perfect for a light picnic meal.
22. Homemade Lemonade
Homemade lemonade is refreshing and budget-friendly. Squeeze fresh lemons, add water and sugar to taste, and stir until dissolved. Chill in a large pitcher and add ice just before serving. You can also add fresh mint or berries for flavor. Making your own lemonade is cheaper than buying pre-made drinks. Bring cups with lids for easy serving outdoors.
23. Antipasto Skewers
Antipasto skewers are flavorful and easy to eat. Thread together olives, salami, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and artichoke hearts. These no-mess bites are perfect for grazing. Buy ingredients in bulk and portion them yourself to save money. Pack in a shallow container with a lid to keep everything in place during travel.
24. Grilled Veggie Kabobs
Grilled veggie kabobs add variety and color. Chop zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions into chunks. Thread onto skewers and grill with a bit of olive oil and seasoning. These are affordable and healthy. Make plenty to share. Wrap in foil or pack in a container with parchment paper for easy transport.
25. Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel Bites
Pretzel bites stuffed with cheese are a fun snack. Use store-bought pretzel dough or make your own, stuffing pieces with cheese before baking. They’re budget-friendly and filling. Serve with mustard or a dipping sauce. These bites travel well and add a warm snack option to your picnic.
26. Chicken Salad Lettuce Cups
Chicken salad lettuce cups are light and easy to eat. Mix cooked, chopped chicken with mayo, diced celery, and halved grapes for sweetness. Spoon into large lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce. These cups are low-carb and budget-friendly if you use leftover chicken. Keep cold and serve fresh at your picnic.
27. Sweet Potato Chips
Sweet potato chips are crunchy and flavorful. Slice sweet potatoes thin with a mandoline or knife, toss with a bit of oil and salt, and bake until crispy. They’re an affordable alternative to store-bought chips. Pack in a sealed container to keep crisp. This DIY snack adds variety to your picnic menu.
28. Mini Quiches
Mini quiches are portable and tasty. Use mini muffin tins to bake egg mixtures with fillings like spinach, cheese, and bacon. Make a batch ahead and serve cold or at room temperature. They’re budget-friendly when you use simple ingredients. These little bites are perfect for picnics where finger foods shine.
29. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches
PB&J sandwiches are an easy, kid-friendly option. Use whole wheat or white bread with your favorite peanut butter and jelly. These sandwiches are cheap and quick to make. Wrap individually in plastic wrap or wax paper for convenience. They’re a nostalgic choice that fills bellies without fuss.
30. Cold Fried Chicken
Cold fried chicken is a picnic favorite. Fry chicken pieces the day before and chill them. Fried chicken tastes great cold and is easy to transport. Use economical cuts like drumsticks or thighs for budget savings. Wrap pieces in foil or parchment paper to keep them crispy and mess-free.
31. Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies are a sweet picnic treat. Bake your own using simple pantry ingredients to save money. Cookies travel well and don’t require refrigeration. Pack in a tin or airtight container to keep them fresh. They’re a classic dessert everyone enjoys.
32. Cornbread Muffins
Cornbread muffins are a hearty side. Use a basic cornbread mix or make from scratch with cornmeal, flour, and buttermilk. Bake in muffin tins for easy portioning. This affordable bread pairs well with BBQ dishes. Wrap muffins in foil or place in a container to keep moist.
33. Iced Tea with Lemon Slices
Iced tea is a refreshing drink choice. Brew tea bags, chill, and add lemon slices for flavor. Sweeten lightly or leave unsweetened. Homemade iced tea is cheaper than buying bottled drinks. Bring a large jug with ice and cups for easy sharing. It’s a classic beverage that complements any picnic meal.
Conclusion
These 33 easy Labor Day picnic food ideas offer a range of flavors, textures, and options to suit any group. Most recipes use simple, affordable ingredients and require minimal prep. From sandwiches to snacks and refreshing drinks, you can create a balanced, satisfying picnic spread without stress. Try mixing and matching these ideas for your next outing and enjoy good food with good company outdoors.