Looking for a seriously quick appetizer, that packs MAXIMUM flavor into a small package? Bacon Ranch Jalapeño Poppers are the answer – the perfect combination of spicy & creamy & crunchy in every bite!
Just 10 minutes of prep, 30 minutes in the oven, & you have the ultimate appetizer to serve at all your gatherings.
This recipe also contains one of our Balanced Bites Spice Blends - RANCH - which you can shop here!
Ingredients
- 8 jalapeños halved lengthwise and seeded
- 1/2 cup vegan "ricotta" cheese (like Kite Hill), ricotta cheese, or Herbed Cashew Cheese (recipe below)
- 1 tsp RANCH Spice Blend
- 8 slices bacon cut in half
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil, then place a wire baking rack on it.
In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the spice blend.
Stuff the jalapeños with the herb cheese, then wrap a piece of bacon around each one.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the bacon is crispy.
Let cool slightly, then serve with ranch dressing on the side.
Notes
**not where this will actually live, here for now**
HERBED CASHEW CHEESE
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 1.5 cups
INGREDIENTS
1 cup raw cashews
1 cup warm water
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup water
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic minced or grated
2 tbsp minced fresh chives
Sea salt and ground black pepper
Place the cashews in a small container and add the warm water. (If it doesn't cover the cashews completely, just add more warm water.) Soak for 1 to 4 hours unrefrigerated or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Drain and rinse the cashews, then place them in a blender or food processor. Add the olive oil, the 1/4 cup water, the lemon juice, and the garlic. Process until smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the processor, about 5 minutes total. Mix in the chives and add salt and pepper to taste.
If you'd like a lighter texture, add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.
RANCH DRESSING
INGREDIENTS
3/4 cup full−fat sour cream
Juice of 1 large lemon
3 tbsps RANCH Blend
2 tbsps EVOO
1 heaping tbsp chopped fresh chives, optional
1 clove garlic, minced or grated
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until well mixed.