15 High-Protein Picnic Recipes

Picnics are a fantastic way to spend time outdoors, enjoy the sunshine, and share delicious food with family and friends. But, why not elevate your picnic menu with some high-protein recipes that keep everyone energized throughout the day?

Whether you’re packing for a day at the park or a beach outing, these 15 high-protein picnic recipes are the perfect combination of tasty and nutritious.

From protein-packed salads to bite-sized snacks, these recipes are simple to make and will make your picnic a hit. Plus, they’re fun for everyone, even the pickiest eaters! Let’s dive into the first seven recipes that will elevate your next picnic!

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1. Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps

Description:
These chicken salad lettuce wraps are an easy, low-carb, and high-protein way to enjoy the classic chicken salad. The crunch of the lettuce pairs perfectly with the creamy, savory chicken filling, making this a refreshing and filling option for your picnic.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 10 large lettuce leaves (Romaine or Butter lettuce works well)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, and dill.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Lay out the lettuce leaves on a platter.
5. Spoon the chicken salad mixture onto each leaf.
6. Fold the lettuce around the filling to create wraps.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

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2. Quinoa and Black Bean Salad

Description:
Packed with protein from both quinoa and black beans, this salad is not only delicious but also filling. It’s a great choice for a picnic as it holds up well in the heat and can be made in advance.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add quinoa, reduce heat, and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes, until the quinoa is tender and water is absorbed.
3. Let quinoa cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine the quinoa, black beans, corn, chopped bell pepper, and cilantro.
5. Drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Toss well to combine, then refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

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3. Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups

Description:
A super simple, high-protein snack that’s perfect for the picnic. These turkey and cheese roll-ups are protein-packed and easy to grab when hunger strikes. Add a bit of mustard or hummus for extra flavor!

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of turkey breast (deli-style)
• 8 slices of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella)
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions:

1. Lay a slice of turkey flat on a clean surface.
2. Place a slice of cheese on top of the turkey.
3. Roll up the turkey and cheese together tightly.
4. Repeat for the remaining slices.
5. If desired, serve with a side of Dijon mustard for dipping.

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4. Egg Salad in Avocado Cups

Description:
This egg salad is made creamy with Greek yogurt and served in ripe avocado cups for a fun and healthy twist. The protein-rich eggs and healthy fats from the avocado make this a filling and delicious picnic treat.

Ingredients:

• 4 boiled eggs, chopped
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the chopped boiled eggs, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Scoop the egg salad into the avocado halves.
4. Garnish with fresh chives.
5. Serve immediately or chill until ready to eat.

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5. Grilled Chicken Skewers

Description:
These flavorful grilled chicken skewers are a great source of lean protein and can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. You can customize the marinade to suit your taste, making them a versatile picnic option.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks (optional)
• 1 onion, cut into chunks (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).
3. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
4. Thread the chicken cubes, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers.
5. Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tzatziki or BBQ sauce.

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6. Cottage Cheese and Fruit Parfaits

Description:
These parfaits are a delightful mix of creamy cottage cheese, fresh fruits, and a sprinkle of granola for crunch. Packed with protein and fiber, they make the perfect high-protein snack for your picnic.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cottage cheese
• 1 cup fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
• ¼ cup granola

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the cottage cheese with honey (if using).
2. Layer the cottage cheese in small jars or cups.
3. Top with fresh berries and granola.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to pack for the picnic.

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7. Protein-Packed Pasta Salad

Description:
A protein-packed twist on a traditional pasta salad, this dish includes chickpeas, turkey, and a creamy dressing to keep everyone full and satisfied. The flavors meld together perfectly for a picnic favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole wheat pasta
• 1 cup cooked turkey breast, chopped
• ½ cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped turkey, chickpeas, and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix olive oil, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

8. Hummus and Veggie Sticks

Description:
Hummus is a classic dip that’s rich in protein and fiber. Pair it with an assortment of fresh veggie sticks like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers for a crunchy, satisfying snack at your picnic. It’s a perfect protein-packed choice for a light, refreshing option.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup hummus (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 carrot, cut into sticks
• 1 cucumber, cut into sticks
• 1 bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 stalk celery, cut into sticks

Instructions:

1. Arrange the vegetable sticks on a platter.
2. Serve the hummus in a bowl alongside the veggie sticks for dipping.
3. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

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9. Greek Yogurt Chicken Dip

Description:
This creamy Greek yogurt chicken dip is packed with protein and makes for a great picnic snack. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed with crackers, veggies, or pita bread for dipping.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with Greek yogurt, ranch dressing, and hot sauce (if using).
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
4. Serve with crackers, pita, or fresh veggies.

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10. Turkey and Avocado Salad

Description:
This Turkey and Avocado Salad is the perfect combination of lean protein and healthy fats. It’s light, refreshing, and will keep you satisfied all day at the picnic, plus it’s quick to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey breast, sliced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cucumber, sliced
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced turkey, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Toss gently to combine, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

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11. Shrimp and Mango Skewers

Description:
These shrimp and mango skewers are a tropical delight that’s packed with protein and bursting with flavor. The sweet mango pairs perfectly with the savory shrimp for a refreshing and high-protein picnic option.

Ingredients:

• 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 mango, peeled and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Thread the shrimp and mango cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating between shrimp and mango.
3. Grill the skewers over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until the shrimp is cooked through.
4. Serve with extra lime wedges for added flavor.

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12. Spicy Tuna Salad

Description:
This Spicy Tuna Salad is a zesty, protein-packed snack that’s perfect for picnics. The combination of tuna, Greek yogurt, and spicy sriracha gives it a flavorful kick, making it a great dip for crackers or a spread for sandwiches.

Ingredients:

• 1 can tuna, drained
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the drained tuna, Greek yogurt, sriracha sauce, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
2. Stir in the fresh cilantro and season with salt and pepper.
3. Serve with crackers, toast, or as a sandwich filling.

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13. Beef and Cheese Lettuce Wraps

Description:
These Beef and Cheese Lettuce Wraps are a savory and high-protein snack that is perfect for picnics. They’re low-carb and easy to eat, making them a convenient choice when you’re out and about.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef, cooked and drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 12 large lettuce leaves

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles.
3. Season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place a spoonful of the cooked beef in the center of each lettuce leaf.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Roll up the lettuce around the filling to create wraps.
7. Serve immediately or chill until ready to eat.

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14. Edamame Bean Salad

Description:
Packed with protein and fiber, this Edamame Bean Salad is a light and satisfying option for a high-protein picnic. The crunchy edamame beans combined with fresh vegetables make for a refreshing, nutritious dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shelled edamame beans (cooked or frozen)
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the edamame beans according to package instructions and cool them.
2. In a large bowl, combine the edamame beans, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and rice vinegar.
4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, salt, and pepper.
5. Toss gently to combine and serve chilled.

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15. Chickpea and Feta Salad

Description:
This Chickpea and Feta Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed dish that combines the hearty texture of chickpeas with the creamy feta cheese. It’s a simple, refreshing salad perfect for a high-protein picnic spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, feta cheese, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss everything gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.