Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, a summer BBQ, or just craving a unique snack, my recipe for bacon wrapped pickle spears is a culinary delight that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Combining the crunchiness of pickles with the savory goodness of bacon, this appetizer is a true winner. The perfect balance of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors makes it an unforgettable treat that will impress your guests.
Bacon Wrapped Pickle Spears: A Perfect Appetizer or Side Dish:
Searching for an appetizer or side dish that will intrigue and satisfy your guests? Look no further than these bacon wrapped pickle spears! The combination of crispy bacon and tangy pickles creates a harmonious flavor that will elevate any gathering or meal.
Versatile Delicacy for Any Occasion:
These delightful bacon wrapped pickle spears are not limited to just one occasion. Whether it’s the big game, a warm summer evening BBQ, or a fun campout, these snacks are the ideal companion. To enhance the experience, serve them with creamy ranch dressing or a sweet BBQ sauce, allowing your taste sensations to explore endless flavor combinations.
A Surprising Twist That Will Leave You Hooked:
Don’t let the initial thought of bacon wrapped pickles deter you. Once you try these unique snacks, you’ll wonder why you didn’t discover them earlier. The perfect blend of textures and flavors will make you wonder how you ever lived without this culinary gem.
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Pickles:
Follow this simple 4-step process to prepare your own batch of delightful bacon wrapped pickles:
1. Wrap:
Take each pickle spear and wrap it evenly with one slice of bacon. Secure the ends of the bacon with toothpicks, but remember to remove them before serving.
2. Season:
The options for seasoning are endless, but I recommend trying my Signature Sweet Rub or Homemade Veggie Shake for the best results. The sugar-free Homemade Veggie Shake is an excellent choice for those conscious of their added sugar intake.
3. Smoke:
Preheat your smoker to 275 degrees F and smoke the pickles for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Keep an eye on the bacon to achieve your desired level of crispiness.
4. Enjoy:
The bacon wrapped pickles are fantastic straight off the grill. Savor them as they are or dip them in mouthwatering ranch dressing or your favorite BBQ sauce. For variety, have several dipping sauces available at your party to cater to different taste preferences.
Tips for Making the Perfect Bacon Wrapped Pickles:
Before you get started, consider these helpful tips to ensure your bacon wrapped pickle spears turn out perfect:
Bacon Thickness: The thickness of the bacon affects the wrapping process and texture. While thin bacon crisps up faster and is easier to wrap, classic bacon strikes a balance between crispy and chewy.
Sugar-Free Option: For a low-carb and sugar-free version, use the Homemade Veggie Shake along with sugar-free bacon and pickles.
Cooking to Texture: Cooking the bacon wrapped pickles is all about achieving the desired texture. One hour at 275 degrees F on the smoker provides a balanced combination of crispy bacon edges and chewy areas next to the pickles. To add more crunch, broil the pickles for a couple of minutes after smoking.
Ingredients:
- 8 dill pickle spears
- 4 slices bacon (cut in half)
- 1 Tablespoon Signature Sweet Rub (or Homemade Veggie Shake)
HOMEMADE RANCH:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2-3 Tablespoons Fish and Veggie Rub
Instructions:
- Preheat the smoker to 275 degrees F with your favorite hardwood.
- Wrap each pickle spear in one slice of bacon and secure tightly with toothpicks.
- Season the bacon wrapped pickle spears with Sweet Rub (or Homemade Veggie Shake) lightly on all sides.
- Place the bacon wrapped pickles directly on the smoker grates and close the lid. Smoke for 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your desired bacon crispiness. Optionally, broil the pickles for 2-3 minutes after smoking for extra crunch.
- Combine all ingredients for the homemade ranch in a medium bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve. For a salad-style dressing, add 2-3 Tablespoons of buttermilk to thin out the dip.
- Serve the bacon wrapped pickle spears with ranch dressing or your favorite BBQ sauce for an appetizer or snack that will leave everyone impressed.
These bacon wrapped pickle spears are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Embrace the uniqueness of this appetizer and share it with your loved ones to create lasting memories around great food. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings and dipping sauces to find your perfect combination. Happy cooking!