Break out the basket and the checkered blanket because it is time for a good old-fashioned picnic. There are many options for vegans at picnics, including fresh fruit, salads, and raw vegetables, but that is not all. Vegan versions of some of the picture-book items found at picnics can be accomplished. Here are a few dishes to serve up at the next picnic at the park!
Vegan "Fried Chicken"
Don't be alarmed, there are no wings going into this vegan version of the breaded picnic classic. Instead, using the Chili Cornmeal Crusted Tofu recipe from the Veganomicon cookbook, you can create a crispy and cruelty-free version.
For a picnic-friendly version, leave out the red pepper and chili powder (especially if serving to a large group, as not everyone likes spicy food). Instead, squirt a little lemon juice in the cornstarch mixture and simply season with black pepper and salt.
Veggie Sandwiches
Vegetable sandwiches are great items to take on a picnic. They are easy to make, super portable, and customized to taste. Whip up some basic BLT's with tempeh bacon, lettuce, tomato, and vegan mayo; some basic hummus and spinach wraps; or get creative with veggie mixes.
Another tasty sandwich option is a chickpea salad sandwich. Here is an example adapted from a recipe from Planet Green:
Chickpea Salad Sandwich Filler
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas (or one 15 oz can)
- 1-2 tbsp dill relish
- 4 tbsp Vegenaise (or other vegan mayo)
- 1/2 tsp scallions, chopped
- 3/4 tsp tahini
- freshly ground pepper to taste
Directions: In a mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork. Add the remaining ingredients and mix until incorporated.
Potato Salad
The following was adapted from a recipe at Vegfamily:
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet or Idaho potatoes
- 1 cup vegan mayo of choice
- 1/4 cup dill relish
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- A pinch of paprika
Directions: Peel, cube, and boil potatoes until soft and fork tender. Drain and let cool. Put potatoes in a bowl and add the rest of the ingredients, except paprika. Sprinkle paprika on the top, chill and serve.
For Sweeter Potato Salad:
- Use a sweeter vegan mayo or make your own. Nayoniase is said to taste similar to Miracle Whip.
- Use red onions for a sweet and spicy crunch.
- Sweet Dill Relish is great for making a sweeter version of potato salad.
Desserts
For desserts at a vegan picnic, almost any small and tasty vegan baked good will do. Some that go especially well from picnic basket to hand include Vegan Cowboy Cookies and Brownies. Both items are small, super portable, and incredibly yummy—also, no forks required.
For raw vegans and vegan who appreciate less sugar, a simple fruit salad is also sensational as a picnic dessert.
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