Warm weather calls for America's favorite pastime: picnics [1] — backyard picnics, beach picnics, park picnics, you name it! The point is to spend as much time as possible outside [2] enjoying what always feel like the short, hot seasons. But when it comes to food to serve and eat outdoors [3], convenience is key, with easy-to-transport dishes getting extra points and space in our baskets. Here, 15 Latin-inspired recipes that travel well and taste beyond delicious.
Chivitos
The carnivores in your group won’t turn down chivitos [4], or Uruguayan steak sandwiches. You can make a mini version for even easier transportation.
Papa a la Huancaína
This Peruvian version of potato salad [5], featuring eggs and olives, has a kick. Make them with minipotatoes and carry them in a big plastic container.
Reina Pepiada
Chicken salad is often a picnic staple, and we know we surely wouldn’t balk at an avocado base like the one in this Venezuelan version [6].
Avocado Tuna Salad Sandwiches
Subbing out the mayo for avocado in these tuna salad sandwiches [7] gives the bites a longer shelf life.
Chicha Morada
If fruit punch is your go-to picnic drink, treat your guests to something a little more exotic, like Peruvian chicha morada [8], made with purple corn.
Mason Jar Taco Salad
A mason jar taco salad [9] is a healthy and easily transportable salad option.
Mango Sangria
If adult punch is a must, bring a plastic pitcher of mango sangria [10] with lots of ice.
Yucca Chips
Homemade yucca chips [11] are a unique alternative to standard, store-bought potato crisps. Hint: they go great with guacamole [12].
Sweet Potato Salad
This roasted sweet potato salad [13] is the perfect alternative to the American mayo-heavy version.
Hearts of Palm Salad Skewers
Take your standard green salad up a notch by trying this easy-to-eat version of a classic Brazilian hearts of palm salad [14].
Avocado Egg Salad
Avocado egg salad [15] will be loved by all guests who seek a sandwich with an interesting spin.
Cuban Sandwiches
Make no mistake about it, Cuban sandwiches [16] will definitely be well-received picnic fare and can be enjoyed cold without a problem.
Cocos Frescos
For a healthy side or dessert, this spicy fruit salad [17] will be everyone's favorite.
Mexican Macaroni Salad
If pasta salad is your thing, you’ll definitely want to try this Mexican macaroni salad [18] with roasted corn.
Minialfajores
No matter how much food they eat, you can be sure your guests will save room for a handful of minialfajores [19].