Picnic salad
A picnic salad is a hearty, portable dish typically made with a base of cooked pasta or potatoes, mixed with a variety of chopped vegetables, a protein like ham or cheese, and tossed in a creamy or vinaigrette-based dressing. It's a staple of American potlucks, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings, designed to be served chilled and to feed a crowd.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally balanced but can be high in fat and sodium depending on the dressing and protein choices. It provides a good mix of carbohydrates for energy, protein for satiety, and fiber from vegetables, with a typical serving ranging from 300 to 500 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 30 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 mcg |
| Calcium | 120 mg |
| Iron | 1.8 mg |
| Vitamin K | 25 mcg |
| Folate | 60 mcg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Its cultural uniqueness lies in its role as a communal food, often representing a family's signature recipe passed down through generations. Nutritionally, it's a 'one-bowl meal' that can be customized to be a lighter side or a more substantial main dish.
