Picnic season is upon us! Whether you're heading to the beach or a secluded park spot, having the right snacks is key to a perfect outdoor experience. Keep in mind that dairy and meat-based items are best enjoyed in cooler temperatures, perhaps an hour or two before sunset, to avoid spoilage on hot days.

Here are some elevated picnic snack ideas to delight your taste buds:

1. Charcuterie Reimagined

Charcuterie boards offer endless possibilities. For a picnic, focus on a balance of sweet, salty, and simple. Think crackers, breadsticks, grapes, strawberries, sliced kiwi, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, celery sticks, ranch dressing, a variety of diced cheeses (pepper jack, Colby jack, white American), salami, and almonds.

Arrange these items artfully on a cutting board for a visually appealing and delicious spread.

2. Gourmet Stacked Sandwich

Sandwiches are a picnic classic, but why not elevate yours with a touch of gourmet flair? This stacked sandwich is both flavorful and elegant.

Start with a halved French baguette, spread pesto on both sides, and layer with prosciutto, thinly sliced Roma tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and baby arugula. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper enhance the flavors. Wrap each sandwich individually in parchment paper and tie with twine for a charming presentation.

3. Fruit Salad with Dreamy Dip

A vibrant fruit salad is a must-have for any picnic. Choose your favorite fruits, but consider pairing strawberries, melon, pineapple, and grapes with a creamy dip.

Whip up a simple dip by combining softened cream cheese, marshmallow fluff, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and serve chilled.

4. Refreshing Cucumber Bites

These cucumber bites offer a light and refreshing snack option. Slice cucumbers into one-inch rounds and partially scoop out the seeds. Fill the resulting cavity with softened cream cheese. Sprinkle some bites with Everything Bagel seasoning and others with fresh dill. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

5. Artisan Bread Basket

Add a touch of rustic charm with an artisan bread basket. Fill a wicker basket lined with napkins with a variety of breads, crackers, and breadsticks. Consider including a French baguette, soda bread, naan, focaccia, thin breadsticks, crostini, and buttery crackers.

6. Flavorful Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a picnic staple. Choose a pasta shape like bow tie, orzo, or tri-color rotini. Cook the pasta and chill thoroughly. Combine with diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes and black olives, sliced cucumbers, spinach, fresh mozzarella, and Italian dressing. Add pepperoni slices for extra flavor. Chill before serving.

7. Strawberry Lemonade Refresher

This strawberry lemonade can be enjoyed as a cocktail or mocktail. Blend fresh strawberries, lemon juice, water, and sugar. For a cocktail, add vodka. Serve over ice and garnish with a strawberry or lemon slice.