Spice Up Your Picnic: 9 Delicious Mexican Picnic Ideas
Nothing screams summer quite like a picnic, and the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine are perfect for alfresco dining. But not every Mexican dish works well for an afternoon meal in the park. Before you pack your picnic basket and head out, explore these nine Mexican food ideas that are sure to add a flavorful twist to your picnic.
1. Chips and Dip
Chips and dip are a picnic staple, but for this picnic, you’ll want to go with tortilla chips instead of potato chips. With the chips taken care of, you have plenty of dip options. Pack up some salsa, homemade guacamole, and even queso. For an extra summer twist, consider making a mango pico.
2. Tacos
Why not turn your picnic into a taco picnic? Tacos are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Prep ingredients like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and chopped lettuce ahead of time. If the park you’re picnicking at has grills, you can season your meat at home and cook it there. You can also cook your taco ingredients at home right before you leave and wrap them in foil to keep them warm. At the park, lay out all your fillings and toppings in an assembly line and get to eating.
3. Burritos
For a hassle-free picnic, consider the convenience of picnic burritos. These are a great option, especially if you have health-conscious picnickers. Load up on protein and veggies, and even skip the tortilla for a healthier option. Prep and roll your burritos (or burrito bowls) ahead of time and wrap them in foil. You can do this shortly before heading out to keep them warm. If a grill is available, you can make your burritos the day before and just reheat on the grill.
Don’t forget to pack extra toppings like sour cream and hot sauces!
4. Fresh Mango with Lime and Chili Powder
No picnic is complete without fresh fruit. Swap the watermelon and berries with fresh mango for your Mexican picnic. Slice the mango before your picnic and pack it with some fresh limes or lime juice to squeeze over the top. Sprinkle with chili powder or Tajin for a bit of kick, and enjoy. You could add some extra flair by drizzling chamoy (a sauce typically made of fruits, chilies, and lime juice) over your mango.
5. Tamales
Like burritos, tamales are another portable main dish perfect for picnics — they even come with their own container! Cook these close to your departure time and keep warm, or heat them on the grill at the park. Pack plenty of salsa, guac, sour cream, and red or green sauce to top them.
6. Esquites (Mexican Corn Salad)
Need the perfect Mexican picnic side? You can’t go wrong with esquites. Esquites is very similar to elotes (Mexican street corn), but instead of being served on the cob, it’s served in a dish. Combine roasted corn cut off the cob with mayo, cotija cheese, lime juice, cilantro, sour cream, and chili powder for a delicious side that can be served either warm or cold.
7. Fajitas
Fajitas may usually be cooked in a skillet, but they are also delicious cooked on the grill! Prep your meat and veggies of choice at home, light up the grill at your local park, and get cooking. Don’t forget to warm your tortillas for a bit on the grill, too, before assembling.
8. Seven-Layer Dip
We already mentioned chips and dip, but seven-layer dip is a heartier side that deserves its own spot. This colorful, vibrant dip features refried beans, guac, seasoned sour cream, shredded cheese, black olives, tomatoes, and onions in separate layers. Serve with tortilla chips for an explosion of flavor with every bite.
9. Tres Leches Cake
Every picnic needs dessert. Strawberry shortcake and other fruit-topped cakes are popular, making tres leches perfect for your Mexican picnic.
Tres leches is a sponge cake soaked in evaporated milk, condensed milk, and whole milk. It is then topped with fresh whipped cream and decorated with fresh berries or pineapple. You can get creative with your toppings and milk. Use strawberry whole milk and tons of fresh sliced strawberries for an extra summery version.
Burrachos Picnic Tacos and Burritos Made Easy
Planning a picnic can be a lot of work, especially when it comes to preparing the food. But with Burrachos, you can take a break from the kitchen and still enjoy a delicious Mexican food picnic. Simply place your order for mouthwatering tacos, burritos, and more. Then, swing by to pick up your food and head to the park—no need to spend the morning cooking and prepping. Order online today and make your next picnic a breeze.