One of my favourite things about a homemade picnic is that it doesn't need to be complicated. In fact, some of the best picnic foods are made from leftovers or simple ingredients you probably already have at home.

Here are a few of my go-to ideas that travel well, taste delicious and help keep everyone fuelled throughout the day.

Rainbow Chicken Salad Jars (Gluten-Free)

Perfect for adults or older children.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken breast, shredded

Mixed salad leaves

Cherry tomatoes

Cucumber

Grated carrot

Red pepper

Sweetcorn

Avocado

Pumpkin seeds

Olive oil

Lemon juice

Black pepper

Method

Layer the vegetables into a large jar or container before topping with the chicken and seeds. Pack the dressing separately and pour over just before eating.

Top Tip: Use leftover roast chicken to save time and reduce food waste.

Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Simply swap to gluten-free pasta if needed.

Ingredients

Cooked pasta

Cherry tomatoes

Cucumber

Red onion

Olives

Feta cheese (optional)

Fresh basil

Olive oil

Lemon juice

Black pepper

Mix together and chill overnight.

Healthy Egg Muffins

These are brilliant for breakfast or lunch and packed with protein.

Ingredients

6 eggs

Handful spinach

Red pepper

Spring onion

Grated cheese (optional)

Salt and pepper

Method

Whisk everything together and divide into a muffin tray.

Bake at 180°C for 18-20 minutes until set.

Serve warm or cold.

Homemade Energy Balls

A healthier sweet treat.

Ingredients

1 cup dates

1 cup almonds

2 tbsp cocoa powder

2 tbsp peanut butter

1 tbsp chia seeds

Method

Blend everything together before rolling into bite-sized balls.

Store in the fridge.

Mediterranean Wraps

Perfect for all the family.

Fillings

Chicken

Hummus

Lettuce

Cucumber

Grated carrot

Roasted peppers

Use wholemeal or gluten-free wraps depending on your needs.

Wrap tightly in baking paper for easy transport.

Homemade Fruit Kebabs

Children absolutely love these.

Thread onto skewers:

Strawberries

Grapes

Melon

Pineapple

Kiwi

Blueberries

Serve with Greek yoghurt or dairy-free yoghurt for dipping.

Crunchy Roasted Chickpeas

A healthier alternative to crisps.

Ingredients

1 tin chickpeas

Olive oil

Smoked paprika

Garlic powder

Mixed herbs

Bake at 200°C for 30-35 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Cool completely before packing.

Homemade Flapjacks

Great for busy days out.

Ingredients

250g porridge oats

100g butter or dairy-free alternative

75g honey or maple syrup

50g pumpkin seeds

50g sunflower seeds

Optional dried fruit

Bake at 170°C for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Allow to cool before slicing.

My Picnic Essentials

These are almost always found in my cool bag:

Homemade sandwiches or wraps

Fresh fruit

Vegetable sticks

Hummus

Hard-boiled eggs

Homemade oat muffins

Nuts and seeds (where appropriate)

Plenty of cold water

Reusable ice packs

Because of my wheat and gluten intolerance, I always make sure I have enough food with me. It means I never have to rely on finding somewhere suitable to eat or end up hungry because there aren't any safe options available. It also saves money, reduces food waste and gives me the freedom to enjoy the day rather than worrying about the next meal.

Sometimes the simplest homemade food really does taste the best when you're sitting outside with fresh air, good company and nowhere to rush off to.