When we think of summer we think of sun, sea, sand, holidays, relaxing, BBQ’s and……. picnics in the park. A typical picnic involves sandwiches, juice, crisps. Why not try these gut loving alternatives that will not only keep our digestive system in check and provide us with a good variety of nutrients but will give us an exciting burst of flavours and textures compared to a standard picnic.

 Orange chicken mini kebabs:

These are quick and easy to prepare in advice and are a zingy addition to a traditional picnic whilst also providing us with vitamin C to ease the digestive path and get things moving. You can add a variety of spices to flavour the chicken or just plain grill before adding to the skewers.

Peeled grated carrots with chopped dates (with cumin, minced chilli, lemon or lime juice, mint or parsley):

This unusual combination with provide us with a great source of fibre.

Roasted pepper cous cous salad:

Cous cous salad is quick and easy to make and goes well with a variety of fruit and vegetables which will also help top up your ‘five a day’.

Cold Teriyaki chicken wings/thighs:

Combine equal parts soy sauce, mirin and saké with a little sugar and sesame oil; boil for a minute. Use this to baste chicken thighs or wings you grill it. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and/or chopped spring onions – ginger and/or lemon are good too. Allow to cool for 20 minutes before putting into the fridge until you are ready to go on your picnic

Other ways to top up for fibre content to keep your digestive system healthy are:

  • Swop white bread/roll to brown or whole meal bread/rolls.
  • Aim to have at least 5 different types of fruit and vegetables within your picnic. This will be easy to achieve  if you prepare a variety of salads and fruity desserts.
  • Ensure that you store all food correctly. By placing ice packs at the bottom of your picnic packet will ensure you food is kept cool for as long as possible meaning germs ad bacteria will find it hard to grow and multiply.