Summer Picnic Ideas: Cheap Ways for a Creative Date

It’s hot, you’re broke and you’ve run out of creative ideas for fun time with your special someone. Well have no fear ladies and gents. A summer picnic is a cheap and special way to show your hunny you were thinking about them. Here are some ideas for food and other special items to bring that won’t break the bank, but keep you entertained in the sweltering weather.

By Kelly

Grab a checked table cloth or blanket to sit on and save your tush from the summer bugs!

Keep cool. Bring water bottle spray fans if it’s a very hot day out. They keep you cool, refreshed and will even help work on your summer glow!

Hydrate. If you don’t want liquor (although beer and/or wine coolers are a great way to quench your thirst!), here are some drink recipes:

Women Today Magazine suggests these fun drink alternatives:

Ice Pops: In a blender, mix any type of fruit (try peaches, pears, strawberries) and add a table of lemon juice. Pour the mixture into ice cube holders and freeze. Either stick Popsicles in them or serve as ice cubes in water to add some spice to your glass of H20!

If you’re tired of boring ‘ole lemonade, try adding other types of juices to spice it up, such as cranberry, raspberry or grapefruit juice.

If you like some bubble in your juice, add some seltzer or club soda to put some zizzzzz in your juices!!!

Rumble in that Tummy.

As always, roll-ups and sandwiches are easy and cheap, but you may’ve grown out of them after mom packed you one too many lunchbox lunches over the years, so here are some other snack ideas for the summer munchies.

Cucumber minis. Slice cucumbers, spread regular or chive cream cheese on the first layer. Then, take a thin sliver of smoked salmon (aka lox) and top it off with a piece of dill and a caper. Wrap them on a tray in plastic and pack in your basket. They are d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s!!!! (not to mention, low fat!)

Bean Salad. A great way to get protein from an unexpected source. Combine chick peas, cannellini beans, red kidney beans, and some diced red onion and then throw on some olive oil and garlic. You’ll get your iron fill, plus your good fat fill (with the yummy olive oil!). Chill before you go and throw in some tupperware and enjoy!

For you meat eaters. Throw some diced skinless chicken, mayo (low fat if you feel like saving the cals!), walnuts, apples (or grapes if you want it a little sweeter) and some dill. Toast some Italian bread and make mini sandwiches for you and your guest!

Well there you have it…some great ways to enjoy a unique summer picnic!!! Pack your bags and make sure you bring that appetite…and let us know if you have any other awesome ideas.

[photo courtesy of hickerphoto.com]