Smoky Links Appetizers
Sweet and savory smoky links are coated in a tangy pineapple glaze with cherries and peppers, perfect for lively gatherings and appetizer platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar, lemon juice, pineapple chunks with juice, cornstarch, and Worcestershire sauce in a crock-pot.
- Add the smoky links, drained cherries, and sliced green pepper to the mixture.
- Heat in the crock-pot until thick and hot, about 45 to 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor profile, consider substituting maple syrup for brown sugar or using apple cider vinegar in place of lemon juice. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked sausages instead of little smoky links. For a thicker sauce, let the mixture cook longer in the crock-pot until it reaches your desired consistency. Pair with ranch fish crackers for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these smoky links appetizers as a hearty snack at your next gathering or party. They pair wonderfully with a side of Aunt Fay's chow chow for a tangy contrast. Consider adding some fresh veggies or a light salad to round out the meal. For a fun twist, serve them on toothpicks for easy eating.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the smoky links in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoky Links Appetizers contains roughly 479 calories, with 5g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% 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 these smoky links ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the crock-pot when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for parties or game day snacks.
What can I use instead of pineapple chunks?
If you don't have pineapple chunks, try substituting with canned peaches or even diced apples. Both will add a sweet element to the dish, although the flavor will vary slightly.
Are there any vegetarian options for this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, replace the little smoky links with plant-based sausages or tofu bites. Adjust the cooking time as needed, but the sauce will still work beautifully to flavor the vegetarian proteins.
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).