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
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.