Pickled sausage is a bold, tangy, savory snack that deserves a spot on more than just the snack table. With its distinctive flavor and convenient preparation, it can add something unexpected to everyday meals, from quick lunches to hearty breakfasts.
Whether you're a longtime fan of pickled sausage or trying it for the first time, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this classic favorite beyond eating it straight from the jar.
At Bay View Packing, we're all about making flavorful, traditional foods part of your everyday routine. Here are five easy ways to incorporate pickled sausage into your next meal.
1. Make a Flavor-Packed Pasta Salad
Give your next pasta salad a savory twist by adding sliced pickled sausage. Its tangy flavor pairs well with pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a simple vinaigrette.
What to include:
Rotini or penne pasta
Sliced pickled sausage
Cherry tomatoes
Diced cucumbers
Red onion
Italian dressing
Cook the pasta according to the package directions and let it cool. Toss with the remaining ingredients and dressing, then refrigerate until ready to serve. The pickled sausage adds a punch of flavor that makes this pasta salad stand out at lunch or your next get-together.
2. Upgrade Your Wraps and Sandwiches
Looking for a way to make your usual lunch more interesting? Add sliced pickled sausage to a wrap or sandwich for a tangy, savory bite.
Try pairing it with:
Swiss or cheddar cheese
Crisp lettuce
Sliced tomatoes
Pickles or banana peppers
Mustard or your favorite sandwich spread
Wrap everything in a tortilla or layer it between slices of your favorite bread. You can also chop the sausage into smaller pieces for a more evenly distributed flavor.
It's an easy way to add variety to a familiar lunch without spending extra time cooking.
3. Add It to a Hearty Breakfast Hash
Breakfast doesn't have to be sweet. Pickled sausage can bring a unique twist to a classic breakfast hash, pairing its savory flavor with crispy potatoes and vegetables.
Here's how to make it:
Dice potatoes and cook them in a skillet with a little oil until golden and tender.
Add chopped bell peppers and onions.
Slice your pickled sausage into bite-sized pieces and stir it in near the end, heating it through.
Season to taste and serve with eggs, if desired.
The combination of crispy potatoes, tender vegetables, and tangy sausage makes a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
4. Create Loaded Baked Potatoes
A baked potato is a versatile base for all kinds of toppings, and pickled sausage offers a flavorful alternative to more traditional options.
Start with a baked russet potato, then add:
Chopped pickled sausage
Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Sliced green onions
Black pepper
For a little extra kick, add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
The warm potato and creamy toppings balance the sausage's tangy flavor, creating an easy lunch or casual dinner with minimal preparation.
5. Build a Savory Lunch Bowl
Lunch bowls are an easy way to combine your favorite ingredients into one satisfying meal. Pickled sausage can be the centerpiece of a bowl filled with grains, vegetables, and flavorful toppings.
Start with a base of rice, quinoa, or mixed greens. Add sliced pickled sausage, then customize your bowl with ingredients such as:
Roasted potatoes or chickpeas
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber slices
Shredded cabbage
Pickled onions
Mustard-based dressing or a simple vinaigrette
Mix and match ingredients based on what you have available. The sausage's bold flavor can help bring everything together without requiring a complicated recipe.
Tips for Cooking With Pickled Sausage
Before adding pickled sausage to your favorite recipes, keep a few simple tips in mind.
Slice it to suit the dish. Thin slices work well in sandwiches and pasta salads, while bite-sized pieces are ideal for breakfast hash and lunch bowls.
Balance the tangy flavor. Pickled sausage pairs well with creamy ingredients, mild cheeses, potatoes, and fresh vegetables. These ingredients can complement its distinctive taste.
Start with a small amount. If you're new to cooking with pickled sausage, begin with a modest portion and adjust to your preference.
Follow the package's storage instructions. Refrigerate and handle the product according to its label, including any instructions that apply after opening.
Make Pickled Sausage Part of Your Next Meal
Pickled sausage is more versatile than you might think. From pasta salads and sandwiches to breakfast hash and loaded potatoes, this flavorful favorite can bring a little extra personality to everyday meals.
You don't need an elaborate recipe or hours in the kitchen to enjoy something different. A few simple ingredients and a little creativity can turn pickled sausage into a memorable addition to your menu.
Ready to try something new? Explore Bay View Packing's selection of pickled products and discover your next savory favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you eat with pickled sausage?
Pickled sausage pairs well with crackers, cheese, bread, potatoes, pasta salads, and fresh vegetables. It can also be added to wraps, sandwiches, breakfast hash, and lunch bowls.
Can you cook with pickled sausage?
Yes. Pickled sausage can be sliced or chopped and incorporated into a variety of dishes. For recipes that involve heating, add it toward the end of cooking and heat as appropriate for the product.
How do you serve pickled sausage?
You can enjoy it straight from the jar according to its label instructions or incorporate it into a meal. Try serving it with cheese and crackers for a simple snack, or use it as an ingredient in a sandwich or pasta salad.
What makes pickled sausage different from regular sausage?
Pickled sausage has a distinctive tangy flavor from its pickling brine, setting it apart from conventional fresh or cooked sausage. Its bold taste makes it a flavorful addition to snacks and meals alike.