Mason Jar Picnic: Turkey Apple Sandwiches with Cheddar, Tomato Basil Pasta Salad, and S’mores Pudding

What a better way to celebrate summer than with an outdoor picnic? Try out a meal of turkey apple cheddar sandwiches, tomato basil pasta salad, and a yummy s’mores dessert for an unforgettable afternoon of casual dining.

These mason jar containers will add a bit of flare to your typical basket meal- portable, reusable, and a great way to pack up your treats. So grab your blankets and head outside to enjoy the summer sunshine!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Serves: 4-6

Turkey Apple Sandwiches with Cheddar

Ingredients:

Sandwich Rolls or Bread of Choice

Fresh turkey breast

Sliced cheddar cheese

Thinly sliced green apples

Honey mustard

Preparation:

1. Spread honey mustard on bread, layer turkey, apple slices, and cheddar

2. Wrap sandwiches in parchment paper or aluminum foil to preserve until eating

Tomato Basil Pasta Salad in a Jar

Using a Pint Sized Mason Jar

Ingredients:

8 oz rotini, or pasta of choice

8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes

Pint of cherry tomatoes cut into halves

5 large basil leaves, chopped

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Freshly ground pepper

Preparation:

1. In a pot of boiling water cook the pasta according to package instructions- a little on the firm side. Drain and rinse with cold water, let drain for a few minutes

2. Prepare the dressing by mixing olive oil, chopped basil, balsamic vinegar, and pepper to taste

3. Have prepared ingredients ready in separate bowls

4. Spoon a 2 tablespoons of dressing into the bottom of each mason jar

5. Layer on top of the dressing (in this order) pasta, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella

6. Cover each jar with a top and shake before serving- this will distribute the dressing evenly over the salad

S’mores Pudding in a Jar

Using a Half Pint Mason Jar

Ingredients:

3 cups of your favorite chocolate pudding, instant or cooked

Marshmallow Fluff

Graham Cracker Crumbs

Preparation:

1. Place ¼ cup of graham cracker crumbs in bottom of mason jar

2. Scoop ½ cup of chocolate pudding on top of crumbs

3. Place 2 tbsp of fluff on top of the chocolate pudding

4. Top with more graham cracker crumbs

5. Place top on the mason jar until ready to serve!

Quantities can be adjusted according to the size mason jar you are using

Kris Schoels is the editor of Young Married Chic -- a blog devoted to baking, fashion, home decor and travel.