5 Recipes for Meals You Can Take to the Beach

There’s nothing quite like a sunny day at the beach, with the sound of waves crashing, the scent of salt in the air, and the joy of a good meal to share with friends and family. But dragging along the wrong type of food can turn a delightful beach picnic into a sandy mess. To save the day, we’ve gathered five scrumptious recipes that not only travel well, but keep fresh and fit the relaxed vibe of a perfect beach outing.

1. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This vibrant, protein-packed salad is easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Full of fresh ingredients and zesty flavors, it will keep you energized for all your beach activities.

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation: In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender. Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine the quinoa with cucumber, bell pepper, onion, olives, feta, and parsley. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss to combine. Pack it in a sealed container for your beach day.

2. Spicy Tuna Wraps

A perfect blend of flavors and textures, these wraps are filling yet refreshing. Easy to make and even easier to transport, they’re ideal for a seaside feast.

• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 4 large tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup shredded lettuce

Preparation: In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, and sesame oil until well combined. Spread a generous amount of the tuna mixture onto each tortilla. Top with avocado slices and lettuce. Roll tightly, tucking in the ends, and cut into halves. Wrap in foil or parchment paper to keep them secure for travel.

3. Caprese Skewers

These handheld tomato, mozzarella, and basil skewers are a fresh and tasty snack. They’re quick to assemble and will keep well in a cooler.

• Cherry tomatoes, a pint
• Mozzarella balls, the fresh kind
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze (optional for drizzling)
• Wooden or bamboo skewers

Preparation: On each skewer, thread a cherry tomato, followed by a basil leaf and a mozzarella ball. Repeat the pattern until the skewer is filled. Arrange the skewers in a container and keep them chilled. For extra flair, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

4. Grilled Chicken Caesar Pitas

These pita pockets offer a classic taste with a portable twist. They’re easy to bite into while enjoying the breeze at the beach.

• 2 boneless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 4 whole wheat pitas
• 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped

Preparation: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and brush with olive oil. Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked. Let them rest before slicing into strips. Mix chicken strips with Caesar dressing and Parmesan. Cut each pita in half and fill with the chicken mixture and romaine. Wrap in foil for easy transport.

5. Fruit and Nut Snack Bars

When you need a sweet, healthy pick-me-up, these bars are the perfect solution. Packed with nuts and fruits, they provide a satisfying energy boost.

• 1 cup pitted dates
• 1/2 cup dried apricots
• 1 cup almonds
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup honey

Preparation: In a food processor, combine dates, apricots, almonds, and cashews. Blend until finely chopped and sticky. Add chia seeds and honey, pulsing until the mixture holds together. Press the mixture into an 8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least an hour before slicing into bars. Wrap each bar individually to keep them fresh and sand-free.

With these recipes, your next beach trip promises to be a treat for your taste buds without the fuss. Just pack, chill, and enjoy the sun and surf with these delicious, no-hassle meals.