Ready to elevate your outdoor gatherings? Dive into Ina Garten’s must-have picnic recipes, featuring fresh, flavorful, and elegant dishes perfect for any alfresco feast. Your next picnic just got a whole lot tastier!
1. Ina Garten Ultimate Tuna Melts
Step up your lunch game with this creamy, cheesy tuna melt that’s anything but ordinary. Made with premium tuna, fresh dill, and a zesty lemon mayo, all piled high on crusty bread, this indulgent twist is a must-try.
The mix of crunchy celery, soft cheese, and savory tuna creates the perfect bite. Pair it with a side of tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience.
2. Ina Garten Greek Orzo Salad
This Greek Orzo Salad is a quick and flavorful dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes! It combines al dente orzo with chickpeas, crumbled feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and fresh dill, all tossed in a bright and tangy lemon vinaigrette.
The mix of creamy feta, briny olives, and fresh herbs creates a delightful texture and flavor that’s hard to resist. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a versatile side dish or light lunch that’s sure to please!
3. Ina Garten Watermelon & Arugula Salad
Sweet and savory come together in this refreshing summer salad. Peppery baby arugula pairs perfectly with juicy diced watermelon for a light, crisp base. A simple vinaigrette, whisked together with a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, brings all the flavors together.
Add some shaved Parmesan on top for that salty, indulgent crunch. It’s the perfect light lunch or a fresh side dish for your next summer BBQ!
4. Ina Garten Roasted Shrimp Salad
Shrimp just got a fresh new twist in this easy yet elegant salad! Roasted to perfection with olive oil, salt, and pepper, these shrimp are tossed in a creamy dressing made with mayo, orange zest, and a splash of white wine vinegar for a zesty kick.
The combination of tender shrimp, tangy dressing, and crunchy dill is a match made in heaven. Serve it on toasted bread or with crispy chips for a light, satisfying lunch or dinner. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a light and satisfying meal.
5. Ina Garten Chicken Salad Sandwich
Elevate your lunch with this Chicken Salad Sandwich – a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy goodness. Made with roasted chicken, fresh tarragon, and a touch of celery, it offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
The tender chicken, zesty mayo, and fresh herbs create a satisfying and refreshing bite. Serve it on toasted bread with a side of greens for a meal that’s both elegant and easy to prepare.
6. Ina Garten Tuna & Hummus Sandwiches
Take your lunch to the next level with Tuna & Hummus Sandwiches! Imagine the perfect mix of flavors and textures: juicy Italian tuna, creamy hummus, crisp radishes, and fresh celery, all piled high on toasted sourdough bread.
The tuna’s hearty texture, the hummus’ velvety smoothness, and the radish’s peppery crunch come together in a flavor combination that’s absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or an easy appetizer, this sandwich delivers.
And don’t forget to toast the bread for that perfect crunch—it makes all the difference!
7. Ina Garten Pesto Pea Salad
Add some excitement to your meal with this fresh and vibrant pesto pea salad! This salad features fresh peas, baby spinach, and toasted pine nuts, all brought together with a zesty homemade pesto made from basil, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil.
Each bite offers a delightful mix of crunchy, creamy, and fresh, with the burst of peas and the tang of Parmesan. It’s perfect as a light side dish or a quick lunch that’s as easy as it is impressive!
8. Ina Garten Marinated Olives
Kick your appetizer game up a notch with these marinated olives, a tasty twist on a classic snack. Green and black olives mingle with orange zest, smashed garlic, fennel seeds, and fresh thyme, all brought together in a drizzle of good olive oil.
The mix of salty olives, zesty citrus, and subtle spice creates a flavor combo you’ll love. Serve them warm, and don’t forget a little dish for the pits!
9. Ina Garten Herbed Potato Salad
Meet your new go-to side dish for any gathering! This herbed potato salad is a total showstopper. Tender small potatoes are paired with a zesty, herby dressing made with white wine, lemon, garlic, and fresh tarragon and parsley.
Every bite is a perfect mix of creamy potatoes and bright, fresh flavors that will have everyone coming back for more. Serve it chilled or at room temperature—it’s a crowd-pleasing side that’s perfect for grilled meats or a picnic.
10. Ina Garten Tomato & Goat Cheese Crostata
Meet the perfect dish for any occasion—elegant yet oh-so-easy to make! This crostata is a showstopper, with its flaky, buttery crust topped by the rich flavors of caramelized leeks, vibrant heirloom tomatoes, and creamy goat cheese.
The mix of textures—crunchy crust, tender leeks, and tangy cheese—is pure magic. Serve it warm as an appetizer or side, and get ready for the compliments. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress and disappear fast!
11. Ina Garten Roasted Eggplant Caponata
Get ready to wow your guests with this Sicilian-inspired dip that’s a real showstopper! Roasted eggplant takes the spotlight, blending perfectly with roasted red peppers, briny olives, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes.
The mix of creamy eggplant, crunchy pine nuts, and zesty lemon juice is pure perfection. Serve it with toasted pita triangles, and watch it disappear at your next party! This caponata is a hearty yet light delight, packed with roasted veggies and bold flavors.
The eggplant adds a silky smooth texture, while olives and capers bring that salty kick. A squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley keep it fresh and vibrant, giving you a taste of Italy in every bite.
The best part? It’s made for sharing! Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a fancy dinner, this dip is sure to impress. Pair it with crispy pita or use it as a topping for crusty bread. Your guests will be asking for the recipe! Let it chill in the fridge for a few hours to let the flavors meld.
Serve it at room temperature for the best taste. It’s perfect for a quick snack or as part of a grazing board. Get ready for the oohs and aahs!
12. Ina Garten Roasted Vegetable Frittata
Elevate your morning meal with this vibrant frittata! Packed with colorful roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion, this dish is a feast for the eyes and taste buds. The veggies are tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple yet flavorful base.
Creamy half-and-half and melted Gruyère add a luscious golden crust that’s simply irresistible. Pair it with crusty toast or a side of fresh fruit for a brunch that’s both effortless and sophisticated!
13. Ina Garten Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs
Take your brunch to the next level with a fancy twist on a classic favorite—Smoked Salmon Deviled Eggs! These bite-sized treats bring together creamy yolks, smoked salmon, fresh chives, and a hint of tangy lemon, all nestled into perfectly cooked egg whites.
The smooth, rich filling gets an extra boost from sour cream and cream cheese, while the smoked salmon adds a luxurious, savory touch. Top them off with a pop of salmon roe for a stunning finish. Serve them as an appetizer or on toasted bagels for a quick, impressive breakfast—either way, they’re sure to wow!
14. Ina Garten Chipotle Cheddar Crackers
These buttery, cheesy crackers are seriously addictive—you might just devour the whole batch in one go! Made with sharp cheddar for a tangy kick, a smoky chipotle for a bit of heat, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that perfect crunch, these crackers are packed with flavor.
With their perfectly crunchy exterior and buttery-tender interior, each bite is a delightful contrast of textures. Serve them alongside your favorite dip or munch on them solo—either way, they’re impossible to resist!
15. Ina Garten Crostini With Tuna Tapenade
This elegant yet easy appetizer is perfect for any gathering. A creamy tuna tapenade made with Italian tuna, mascarpone, olives, capers, and fresh herbs takes center stage, spooned over perfectly toasted French bread.
The blend of briny, savory, and tangy flavors, with a touch of lemon zest, creates a taste that everyone will love. Serve it at your next get-together and watch it disappear—your guests will be thrilled!
16. Ina Garten Fresh Raspberry Mini Corn Muffins
Raspberry and cornmeal come together in these adorable mini muffins that are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert! Made with fresh raspberries, tangy cornmeal, and just the right amount of sugar, these bite-sized treats are a flavorful twist on traditional muffins.
Each muffin is moist, slightly sweet, and bursting with juicy raspberries, topped with a crunchy turbinado sugar crust. Serve them warm for the ultimate breakfast or snack, and don’t be surprised if you eat half the batch in one sitting!
17. Ina Garten Maple Scones
Imagine scones that are flaky, buttery, and dripping with pure maple syrup goodness—these are the ultimate breakfast treat. Made with a blend of all-purpose and whole-wheat flour, plus a touch of oats for extra texture, they’re both hearty and indulgent.
The star of the show is the maple syrup, adding a rich, velvety sweetness that will have you hooked from the first bite. Serve them warm alongside a steaming cup of coffee, and watch them vanish in no time.
Perfect for a cozy morning or a special weekend breakfast!
18. Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies
Get ready to fall in love with these chewy, golden blondies loaded with big chunks of chocolate and crunchy walnuts. They’re made with rich butter, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla. No fancy techniques needed—just mix everything together and you’re good to go.
The result is a treat that’s crispy on the edges, chewy in the center, and perfectly sweet. Slice them into squares and serve. Perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying your sweet tooth!
19. Ina Garten Lemon Icebox Cake
Looking for a dessert that’s as bright as a sunny day? This Lemon Icebox Cake is the perfect treat! Layers of buttery shortbread cookies meet a tangy lemon whipped cream, made with fresh lemon juice, zest, and a hint of vanilla.
The combination of crunchy cookies and creamy, citrusy goodness is simply irresistible. Prep it ahead, chill overnight, and you’ve got an effortless yet impressive dessert that’s sure to wow your guests.
They’ll be asking for the recipe in no time!
20. Ina Garten Strawberry Shortcakes, Deconstructed
Step up your dessert game with this modern twist on the classic strawberry shortcake! Flaky, buttery shortcakes meet sweet strawberries infused with the sophisticated tang of Grand Marnier. The combination is pure magic—crumbly, golden layers giving way to juicy, boozy fruit that bursts with flavor in every bite.
To make it even more impressive, layer them in martini glasses for a dessert that’s as elegant as it is delicious. It’s the perfect way to elevate your next gathering!