Summer is all about spending time outdoors, soaking up the sun, and enjoying good food with even better company. If you’re planning a picnic, one main dish checks all the boxes—tamales. Flavorful, convenient, and deeply rooted in tradition, tamales bring a festive, comforting feel to any summer gathering. Whether you’re heading to the park, beach, or your own backyard, it’s time to turn your next picnic into a tamale-themed celebration.
Choose Your Tamale Lineup
The best part of a tamale picnic? The variety. With a range of fillings to suit every guest, mixing and matching a dozen or more is easy. You can keep it classic or get adventurous with bold flavors.
Here are some crowd-pleasing options:
- Pork
- Chicken
- Beef
- Bean
- Bean & Cheese
- Bean & Cheese & Jalapeño
- Chicken & Cheese
- Chicken & Cheese Cooked in Green Sauce
- Cream Cheese & Jalapeño
- Sweet Cream Cheese
- Spicy Chicken
- Spicy Pork
- Veracruzano
Order a sampler to ensure every guest finds their favorite, and don’t forget a few vegetarian or spicy options to cover all preferences.
Pair with Refreshing Sides and Drinks
Tamales may be the star, but the right pairings take your picnic to the next level. Please keep it simple and refreshing with sides and beverages that complement the bold flavors of your main dish.
Perfect pairings include:
- Sides: Mexican street corn, fresh fruit salad, chips with guacamole or salsa
- Drinks: Agua frescas (like hibiscus or watermelon), iced tea, lemonade, or Mexican sodas
- Sweets: Churros, pan dulce, or chilled fruit cups
Tamales are easy to serve and don’t require utensils, which means less mess and more fun. Just unwrap and enjoy!
Set the Scene for a Tamale-Filled Day
Picnics should be relaxing, not stressful. Here’s how to create an effortless setup that lets your tamales do the talking:
- Bring a large blanket or foldable table with bright summer colors
- Use coolers or insulated bags to keep tamales warm and drinks cold
- Include plenty of napkins, disposable plates, and hand wipes
- Add some music, sunscreen, and folding chairs for extra comfort
Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a casual date, or a neighborhood get-together, tamales keep things easy and festive.
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Let Delia’s Do the Cooking
Skip the kitchen and let Delia’s Tamales handle the flavor. With handmade tamales prepared fresh daily, you can trust every bite will be authentic and satisfying. Order ahead, pick up your favorites, and turn your next outdoor gathering into a delicious memory.
