How to Stay AIP-Healthy During Summer Picnics

Summer picnics are a fantastic way to enjoy the beautiful weather, spend time with loved ones, and indulge in delicious food. If you're following the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet, it can seem challenging to pack a picnic that's both compliant and tasty. But fear not! With a little planning and creativity, you can prepare a delightful, AIP-compliant picnic basket that everyone will love.

Here are some tips and recipe ideas to help you stay AIP-healthy during your summer picnics.

1. Plan Your Menu

The first step to a successful AIP picnic is planning a menu that includes a variety of flavors and textures. Aim for a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fruits and vegetables. Here are some AIP-friendly food ideas to get you started:

• Protein: Grilled chicken, turkey meatballs, shrimp skewers.
• Vegetables: Cucumber slices, baby carrots, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper sticks.
• Fruits: Berries, apple slices, watermelon chunks, grapes.
• Healthy Fats: Avocado slices, guacamole, olives, coconut flakes.
• Sweet Treats: Eat Gangster cookies, and baking mixes are perfect for a sweet ending to your picnic, without compromising your AIP diet.

2. AIP-Friendly Recipes

Here are a few simple recipes to include in your AIP picnic basket:

Grilled Chicken Skewers

• Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, sea salt, oregano, and garlic powder.
  2. Thread the chicken onto skewers.
  3. Grill on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.
  4. Let them cool before packing in a picnic container.

Purple Sweet Potato Salad

• Ingredients:

  • 2 purple sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 green onions, sliced

• Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (make sure it’s AIP-compliant)
  • Sea salt to taste

• Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss the diced sweet potatoes with olive oil and sea salt. Spread on a baking sheet.
  3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly crispy. Let cool.
  4. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, parsley, and green onions.
  5. Whisk together the ingredients for the dressing and pour over the salad. Toss to coat.

Berry Fruit Salad

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1 cup raspberries
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
  2. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss gently.
  3. Pack in a portable container for a refreshing side dish.

3. Packing Tips

To keep your AIP picnic fresh and delicious, follow these packing tips:

• Coolers and Ice Packs: Use a cooler with plenty of ice packs to keep your food chilled, especially if you're bringing perishable items like meat and avocado.
• Containers: Opt for leak-proof, BPA-free containers to prevent spills and cross-contamination.
• Utensils and Napkins: Don't forget the essentials like utensils, napkins, and plates. Bring eco-friendly options for a greener picnic.
• Hydration: Pack plenty of water or AIP-friendly beverages, like coconut water or herbal iced teas, to stay hydrated.

4. Adding Flavor

Enhance the flavors of your picnic foods with AIP-compliant dips and dressings:

• Guacamole: Mash avocado with lime juice, sea salt, and fresh cilantro.
• Coconut Yogurt Dip: Mix coconut yogurt with a touch of honey and a splash of lemon juice.
• Herb Dressing: Blend fresh herbs, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and sea salt for a zesty dressing.

5. Sweet Treats from Eat Gangster

No picnic is complete without a little sweet indulgence. Pack some Eat Gangster cookies or use their baking mixes to create AIP-friendly treats that everyone will love. These products are not only delicious but also free from grains, dairy, and refined sugar, making them perfect for your AIP diet.

6. Enjoying Your Picnic

Once you've packed your AIP-compliant picnic basket, it's time to head outdoors and enjoy! Find a comfortable spot in the shade, lay out a blanket, and savor your delicious meal. Bring along some fun activities like frisbee or a book to make the most of your outdoor experience.

By following these tips and recipes, along with incorporating treats from Eat Gangster, you can enjoy a delightful summer picnic while staying true to your AIP diet. Happy picnicking!