Pigs in a blanket, those miniature sausages nestled in flaky, golden pastry, are a quintessential comfort food and party appetizer. But while they’re delicious on their own, the right accompaniments can elevate them from simple snacks to a complete and satisfying meal or a sophisticated hors d’oeuvre. This comprehensive guide explores a diverse range of serving suggestions, ensuring your pigs in a blanket are always the star of the show.
Dipping Sauces: The Perfect Complement
Dipping sauces are arguably the most crucial element to consider when serving pigs in a blanket. They provide moisture, flavor contrast, and an extra layer of enjoyment. The choice of sauce depends on your personal preference and the overall vibe you’re aiming for – casual, spicy, or refined.
Classic Choices
Ketchup is the undeniable king of dipping sauces for pigs in a blanket. Its sweet and tangy flavor profile complements the savory sausage and buttery pastry perfectly.
Mustard, in its various forms, is another popular option. Yellow mustard provides a bright, sharp tang, while Dijon mustard offers a more sophisticated and complex flavor. Honey mustard adds a touch of sweetness to the mustard’s bite.
Ranch dressing, with its creamy texture and herbaceous flavor, is a crowd-pleaser, especially among children.
Spicy Sauces
For those who like a kick, sriracha offers a fiery and garlicky heat. Mixing sriracha with mayonnaise creates a creamy and slightly less intense option.
Hot sauce, in all its variations, provides a pure, unadulterated heat that can range from mild to scorching.
Chipotle mayo, made with smoked jalapenos, offers a smoky and spicy flavor that pairs well with the savory sausage.
Sweet and Savory Sauces
Honey is a simple yet effective dipping sauce that adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
Maple syrup, especially when paired with breakfast pigs in a blanket, is a delightful combination.
Barbecue sauce, with its smoky, sweet, and tangy notes, is a bolder option that complements the sausage and pastry.
Unique and Unexpected Sauces
Aioli, a garlic-infused mayonnaise, offers a sophisticated and flavorful dipping experience.
Pesto, with its fresh basil and nutty Parmesan cheese, provides a bright and herbaceous contrast to the richness of the pigs in a blanket.
Spicy cheese dip, warm and gooey, adds a creamy and flavorful dimension.
A simple cheese sauce made from cheddar can also offer a great addition. The combination of salty and savoury is always a winner.
Side Dishes: Building a Complete Meal
While pigs in a blanket are often served as appetizers, they can also be the centerpiece of a satisfying meal. The right side dishes can transform them from a snack into a complete and balanced culinary experience.
Salads and Vegetables
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pigs in a blanket. Choose leafy greens like romaine or spinach and add vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and carrots.
Coleslaw, with its creamy or vinegar-based dressing, offers a crunchy and tangy counterpoint.
Fruit salad, with its variety of sweet and juicy fruits, provides a refreshing and palate-cleansing option.
Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes, offer a hearty and flavorful accompaniment.
Comfort Food Classics
Mac and cheese, creamy and comforting, is a classic pairing with pigs in a blanket, especially for children.
French fries, crispy and salty, are another popular choice that complements the savory sausage and pastry.
Potato salad, creamy and tangy, is a picnic staple that works well with pigs in a blanket.
Tater tots, with their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, are a fun and easy side dish.
Soups and Stews
Tomato soup, with its acidity and warmth, provides a comforting and complementary contrast.
Chili, hearty and flavorful, is a great option for a more substantial meal.
Chicken noodle soup, classic and comforting, is a light and soothing accompaniment.
Other Savory Sides
Baked beans, sweet and savory, are a classic barbecue side dish that pairs well with pigs in a blanket.
Corn on the cob, grilled or boiled, provides a sweet and juicy element to the meal.
Onion rings, crispy and flavorful, are a decadent and satisfying side dish.
Drinks: Quenching Your Thirst
The right beverage can enhance the flavor and enjoyment of your pigs in a blanket experience. Consider both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options to cater to all tastes.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Lemonade, tart and refreshing, cuts through the richness of the pigs in a blanket.
Iced tea, unsweetened or lightly sweetened, provides a classic and refreshing option.
Sparkling water, plain or flavored, adds a touch of fizz and refreshment.
Juice, such as apple or orange, provides a sweet and fruity complement.
Soda, like cola or root beer, is a classic pairing for comfort food.
Alcoholic Options
Beer, especially lighter lagers and pilsners, complements the savory flavors of the pigs in a blanket.
Cider, both hard and sweet varieties, offers a fruity and refreshing alternative to beer.
Wine, a light-bodied red or a crisp white, can be paired with pigs in a blanket depending on the dipping sauce and side dishes.
Sparkling wine, like Prosecco or Champagne, adds a touch of elegance to the occasion.
Presentation and Serving Tips
Presentation matters, even for something as simple as pigs in a blanket. A little effort can go a long way in creating a more appealing and enjoyable experience.
Serve the pigs in a blanket warm, ideally straight from the oven or a warming tray.
Arrange them artfully on a platter or in a basket lined with parchment paper.
Provide a variety of dipping sauces in small bowls or ramekins.
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added visual appeal.
Consider using toothpicks or skewers for easy handling.
Label the dipping sauces clearly so guests know what they’re choosing.
Keep the dipping sauces fresh and replenished throughout the serving time.
For a more formal presentation, consider serving the pigs in a blanket on individual plates with a small ramekin of dipping sauce.
Themed Pairings: Elevating the Experience
Take your pigs in a blanket presentation to the next level by creating themed pairings. This adds a fun and creative element to your gathering.
Breakfast Theme
Serve mini pigs in a blanket with maple syrup, scrambled eggs, and a side of fresh fruit for a brunch-inspired treat.
Coffee and orange juice are perfect beverage pairings.
Game Day Theme
Pair pigs in a blanket with classic game day snacks like nachos, wings, and chips and dip.
Beer and soda are the go-to beverage choices.
Oktoberfest Theme
Serve pigs in a blanket with mustard, sauerkraut, and German potato salad.
German beer is the obvious beverage choice.
Mexican Fiesta Theme
Pair pigs in a blanket with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream.
Margaritas and Mexican beer complement the flavors perfectly.
Ultimately, the best way to determine what to serve with pigs in a blanket is to experiment and find what you enjoy most. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new combinations. The possibilities are endless!
What are some classic dipping sauces for pigs in a blanket?
Classic dipping sauces that complement the savory flavor of pigs in a blanket include ketchup, mustard, and honey mustard. Ketchup provides a sweet and tangy counterpoint, while yellow mustard offers a sharp, pungent bite. Honey mustard balances the sweetness of the honey with the tang of the mustard, creating a versatile option.
Beyond these standards, consider exploring other flavors. Ranch dressing adds a creamy, herbaceous element. Barbecue sauce lends a smoky sweetness. Cheese sauce creates a rich and comforting experience. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing!
What side dishes pair well with pigs in a blanket for a party?
For a party setting, side dishes that are easy to eat and offer a variety of flavors and textures work best with pigs in a blanket. Consider options like coleslaw, which provides a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the richness of the pigs in a blanket. Potato salad offers a creamy and satisfying side that complements the savory sausage.
Other great options include macaroni and cheese for a comforting classic, or a simple green salad to add some freshness and balance. Don’t forget about crowd-pleasing snacks like chips and dip or veggie sticks with hummus. The goal is to offer variety and something for everyone to enjoy alongside the main attraction.
Can you suggest a healthy side dish to serve with pigs in a blanket?
A healthy and refreshing side dish that pairs well with pigs in a blanket is a crisp and colorful salad. Opt for a mix of leafy greens, such as romaine or spinach, and add in vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and carrots for added nutrients and flavor. A light vinaigrette dressing will complement the savory taste of the pigs in a blanket without being too heavy.
Alternatively, consider serving steamed or roasted vegetables. Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are all excellent choices. A sprinkle of herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the flavor without adding excessive calories or unhealthy fats. These options provide essential vitamins and minerals, balancing the indulgent nature of the main dish.
Are there any international flavors that complement pigs in a blanket?
Pigs in a blanket, despite their American origins, can be surprisingly versatile with international flavors. Consider serving them with a spicy sriracha mayo for an Asian-inspired kick. A side of chimichurri sauce, an Argentinian herb-based condiment, offers a vibrant and herbaceous counterpoint to the savory sausage.
Alternatively, explore Mediterranean flavors by serving pigs in a blanket with a Greek salad or a tzatziki dipping sauce. The cool and refreshing yogurt-based sauce balances the richness of the pigs in a blanket, creating a delightful flavor combination. These international pairings add an unexpected twist to a classic dish.
What beverages go well with pigs in a blanket?
The best beverages to serve with pigs in a blanket are those that cleanse the palate and complement the savory flavor. Iced tea, whether sweet or unsweetened, is a refreshing choice that cuts through the richness of the dish. Lemonade offers a sweet and tangy counterpoint that balances the saltiness.
For adult beverages, consider lighter options like beer or sparkling wine. A crisp lager or a light-bodied white wine can be a refreshing accompaniment. Avoid overly heavy or sweet drinks, which can overwhelm the flavors of the pigs in a blanket. The goal is to choose a beverage that enhances, rather than competes with, the main dish.
How can I elevate pigs in a blanket for a more sophisticated gathering?
To elevate pigs in a blanket for a more sophisticated gathering, focus on using higher-quality ingredients and presentation. Opt for gourmet sausages, such as Italian sausage or chorizo, instead of traditional hot dogs. Wrap them in flaky puff pastry rather than pre-made crescent rolls. Serve with elegant dipping sauces like truffle aioli or fig jam.
Presentation is key. Arrange the pigs in a blanket artfully on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers. Consider serving them alongside a cheese board with artisanal cheeses, crackers, and fruit. These small changes can transform a simple dish into a more refined and elegant appetizer that is sure to impress your guests.
What dessert pairings complement pigs in a blanket?
The best desserts to serve after pigs in a blanket are those that offer a contrasting flavor profile. A light and refreshing fruit salad provides a welcome palate cleanser after the savory appetizer. The sweetness and acidity of the fruit help to balance the richness of the pigs in a blanket.
Alternatively, consider individual desserts like mini cupcakes or brownies. These small treats offer a touch of sweetness without being overly heavy. A chocolate dessert can be a decadent and satisfying end to the meal, while a vanilla cupcake provides a more subtle and classic option. Choose desserts that are easy to eat and offer a variety of flavors and textures.