Description

If you’re a pickle enthusiast like I am, you know the joy of biting into a crisp, tangy dill pickle. Growing up, my love for dill pickles was legendary in my family. It became a running joke that I was the official “pickle opener” in the house, a title I wore with pride. Every time a new jar was cracked open, I was there, ready to claim the first spear. My love for dill pickles has only grown with time, and it’s this passion that inspired these delightful Reuben Pickle Bites. These bites are the perfect combination of tangy, savory, and satisfying, offering all the flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich, but with a unique pickle twist.

Reuben Pickle Bites are not just a tasty snack; they’re also a low-carb alternative to traditional sandwiches. The star of the show here is the dill pickle, which brings an extra punch of flavor that perfectly complements the rich pastrami, Swiss cheese, and the homemade Reuben sauce. The sauce itself is a tangy blend of mayonnaise, tomato paste, horseradish, soy sauce, and sauerkraut, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite. These little bites are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a fun snack at home. Let’s dive into how you can create these delicious Reuben Pickle Bites.

Ingredients

• For the Reuben Sauce:
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 1/2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
• 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained
• For the Pickle Bites:
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 2-3 medium slices Jewish rye bread, crusts trimmed, cut into 18 (1-inch) pieces
• 6 small slices pastrami or corned beef, cut into thirds (18 strips)
• 2 slices Swiss cheese, cut into 18 (1-inch) pieces
• 1-2 (32 oz) jars dill pickle chips

Preparation Method

1. Make the Reuben Sauce: Whisk kosher salt, tomato paste, horseradish, soy sauce, mayonnaise, and onion powder in a bowl until smooth. Fold in drained sauerkraut and set aside.

2. Prepare the Rye Bread: Trim crusts from rye bread and cut into 1-inch squares. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat and toast bread squares until golden brown on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. Prepare the Cheese and Meat: Cut Swiss cheese into 1-inch squares. Slice pastrami or corned beef into thirds.

4. Assemble the Reuben Pickle Bites: Place a dill pickle chip on a platter. Layer with pastrami, toasted rye bread, Swiss cheese, Reuben sauce, and another pickle chip. Secure with a toothpick.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm and enjoy as an appetizer or snack.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
If you want to take these bites to the next level, consider lightly toasting the Swiss cheese on the bread before assembling the bites. This will give the cheese a slightly melted texture, enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of pickles, such as spicy dill or bread and butter pickles, to add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

Conclusion:
Reuben Pickle Bites are a delightful fusion of classic Reuben flavors and the bold, tangy taste of dill pickles. They offer a satisfying crunch with each bite, balanced by the rich and creamy Reuben sauce. Whether you’re a pickle aficionado like me or just looking for a unique appetizer to impress your guests, these bites are sure to be a hit. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re the perfect addition to any party or casual gathering. So the next time you’re in the mood for something different, give these Reuben Pickle Bites a try—you won’t be disappointed!