A Fourth Of July Picnic Menu

There is no better way to celebrate the Fourth of July weekend than by packing up a picnic dinner, a couple of blankets (and other cool tools), and some summery drinks for both kids and adults. To help you in the planning, we've put together some of our favorite, very-packable dishes that can be made in advance and don't require constant refrigeration. 

Menu

Fried Chicken

I first made Shake N Bake chicken when I was about 10, along with a vegetable casserole...

— Valaer Murray

Warm Blue Potato Salad

When the weather starts getting warm and we begin breaking out our best bright pink sundresses...

— Big Girls Small Kitchen

Pesto, Peas, and Pasta Salad

I can't remember when I first discovered the combination of fresh peas, lots of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, and toasted...

Chickpea and Avocado Salad

This high-protein salad is every bit as hearty and satisfying as it is light and refreshing...

— Terry Walters

Chopped Greek Salad

This light, refreshing and incredibly tasty version of a traditional Greek salad is great... 

— Yasmin Fahr

As for dessert, if there isn't an ice cream truck nearby (what would the holiday be without your first chocolate eclair or strawberry shortcake-flavored Good Humor bar?), come prepared with some all-American favorites like brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and slices of watermelon (for a seed-spitting competition). Packing the vanilla ice cream on ice and hoping it doesn't completely melt is up to you.