Cocktail Rye Appetizer
A savory appetizer featuring creamy sharp cheese and black olives on toasted rye bread, topped with bacon bits—perfect for parties and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together mayonnaise, shredded sharp cheese, sliced black olives, and finely chopped onion.
- Spread the mixture on cocktail rye bread slices and place on a cookie sheet.
- Sprinkle Hormel real bacon bits over the top.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese melts and the topping is heated through.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add diced jalapeños for a kick or substitute the sharp cheese with a milder option if preferred. If you want to make it vegetarian, just skip the bacon bits or use a plant-based alternative. This dish pairs beautifully with Tropical Bars for a sweet finish.
Serving Suggestions
These cocktail rye appetizers are perfect for parties and gatherings. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or a platter of veggies for a balanced spread. For a delightful dessert pairing, consider serving with Frozen Strawberry Yogurt to refresh the palate after this savory appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cocktail rye appetizers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melty again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Rye Appetizer contains roughly 364 calories, with 9g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and calcium (18% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just spread it on the cocktail rye slices right before baking to ensure they stay crisp.
What can I use instead of cocktail rye bread?
If you can't find cocktail rye bread, you can use mini pumpernickel, whole grain bread, or even sliced cucumbers for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture. You can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).