Cheap lunches to take to the park
Out-and-about lunches don’t have to be costly. Check out these budget-friendly lunches that are perfect to pack up and take with you to your local park
As the weather warms up and the days grow longer, there's no better time to enjoy a relaxed lunch outdoors. Whether it's a family day out, a solo escape to the local green space or a catch-up with friends, a picnic in the park is the perfect way to make the most of summer. But eating al fresco doesn’t have to mean expensive deli buys or time-consuming spreads. With a little planning, you can whip up delicious, budget-friendly lunches that are easy to transport, full of flavour and kind to your wallet.
We've compiled 10 lunch recipes that are perfect for picnics – from sandwiches and salads to savoury bakes – all chosen for their portability, affordability and taste. We've also shared our top picnic tips & tricks for budget-friendly picnicking.
Check out our cheap lunch ideas, cheap lunch ideas for work and budget picnic recipes for more cost-effective lunches.
Cheap lunches to take to the park
1. Easy coronation chicken
This classic British favourite is a brilliant way to use up leftover roast chicken. Mixed with mayonnaise, curry powder and mango chutney, it’s creamy, sweet and subtly spiced. Serve it in sandwiches, wraps or with salad leaves. What's more, it's quick to prepare, requires no cooking and is ideal for batch-making.
Check out more ways to use up leftover chicken.
2. Pesto pasta salad
This simple vegetarian pasta salad showcases budget-friendly ingredients like pasta and frozen peas, along with fresh veg like cucumber and cherry tomatoes. It’s a filling, colourful option that travels well in lunchboxes and can be made in under 25 minutes.
See more pasta salad recipes.
3. Stuffed rainbow baguette
Packed with hummus, pesto, cheddar and colourful veg such as beetroot, carrot and pepper, this vibrant sandwich is as nutritious as it is eye-catching. It’s perfect for sharing – just wrap tightly in parchment and slice at the park.
Try more of our vegetarian lunch recipes.
4. Hummus
Homemade hummus is incredibly cheap to make and takes just 10 minutes with a tin of chickpeas, garlic, lemon and tahini. Serve with pitta strips or crunchy veg as part of a healthy, no-fuss lunch.
Take a look at more of our hummus recipes.
5. Healthy potato salad
This herby potato salad is a lighter take on the classic. Made with fresh herbs like basil and parsley and a garlic dressing, it’s a refreshing side that holds up well in a cool box. Potatoes are a great budget staple, making this a cost-effective addition to a lunchtime spread.
Try more of our potato salad recipes.
6. Squash, pea & feta frittatinis
These mini baked omelettes are made with just four ingredients – butternut squash, frozen peas, eggs and feta – and baked in muffin tins for perfect portions. They’re easy to transport, taste great cold and are ideal for using up leftover veg, too.
Discover more healthy packed lunch recipes.
7. Pastry-less pork pie
This summery twist on the traditional pork pie uses courgette ribbons instead of pastry, making it lighter and more affordable. It’s packed with flavour and looks impressive, perfect for a picnic centrepiece.
Take a browse through more pork pie recipes.
8. Veggie olive wraps with mustard vinaigrette
These veg-packed wraps are colourful, crunchy and vegan-friendly. Filled with olives, peppers and salad leaves, and dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, they’re quick to make and easy to wrap up for a last-minute lunch in the park.
Try more wrap recipes as well as our vegan lunch recipes.
9. Cheese & onion pasties
These hand-held pasties are filled with a cheesy, mustardy onion mix and wrapped in shortcrust pastry. They’re perfect for making in bulk and freezing, then grabbing on the morning of your al fresco lunch.
Check out more shortcrust pastry recipes as well as more best pasty recipes.
10. Egg & cress club sandwich
A triple-decker twist on a classic, this egg and cress sandwich is as satisfying as it is simple. Made with budget-friendly staples like eggs, bread and tomatoes, it’s easy to prepare ahead and holds together well when wrapped.
Try more sandwich recipes as well as our favourite afternoon tea recipes.
Budget picnic tips & tricks:
Picnics don’t have to be costly. Here are some practical tips to help you keep things budget-friendly, delicious and low-waste.
1. Plan ahead: choose recipes that use overlapping ingredients e.g. herbs, eggs, chickpeas to reduce waste. Batch-cook and freeze items like pasties and frittatas for future outings.
2. Use leftovers: transform leftover roast chicken into sandwiches or wraps. Use up veg in pasta salads or frittatas.
3. Pack smart: keep dressings separate from salads to avoid sogginess. Use reusable containers and ice packs to keep food fresh. Wrap sandwiches tightly in parchment and secure with string.
4. Minimise waste: bring reusable cutlery, cups and plates. Pack only what you need and take home any leftovers. Compost food scraps where possible.
5. Be smart with presentation: layer salads in jars with dressing at the bottom. Slice large items like baguettes or pies into portions before packing.
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