This tasty pickled summer sausage pairs perfectly with creamy mustard eggs for a fun snack. It’s super easy to prepare and packed full of flavor!
I love serving this when friends come over—it’s a real crowd-pleaser! Just grab some crackers, and you’re all set for a simple and delightful treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Summer Sausage: This is the star of the show! Go for a good-quality summer sausage for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try turkey or chicken sausage instead. Beef or pork varieties also work well.
White Vinegar: It gives the pickling liquid a nice tang. If you want a milder taste, you can use apple cider vinegar instead. Just remember, it’ll slightly change the flavor profile.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a zesty kick to the eggs. If you’re not a fan of Dijon, you can swap it for yellow mustard or even a spicy brown mustard for extra flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I recommend topping your mustard eggs with parsley or chives for a fresh touch. If you don’t have those, dill or even green onions can be a nice alternative!
How Do You Boil Eggs Perfectly?
Boiling eggs might seem simple, but getting them just right can be a bit tricky. Here’s a quick guide to perfect hard-boiled eggs:
- Place the eggs carefully in a pot and cover them with cold water—this prevents cracking.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and let them simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, transfer them straight to a bowl of ice water. This stops the cooking and makes them easier to peel later.
Peeling eggs can be easier if they’re a few days old, as fresher eggs are harder to peel. Give them a gentle tap and roll to crack the shell—this helps break the membrane!
Easy Pickled Summer Sausage with Mustard Eggs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickled Summer Sausage:
- 1 summer sausage (about 12-16 oz), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon pickling spice
For the Mustard Eggs:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4 hours to chill the sausages for the best flavor. If you can, it’s best to let them pickle overnight. The mustard eggs will only take about 20 minutes to prepare, making this a quick and easy dish overall!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pickling Liquid:
In a medium saucepan, mix the white vinegar, water, sugar, and pickling spice. Place it over medium-high heat and bring it to a boil while stirring until the sugar fully dissolves. Once it’s boiling, take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Pickle the Summer Sausage:
Take your sliced summer sausage and place it into a clean glass jar or container. Carefully pour the warm pickling liquid over the sausage slices until they are completely submerged. Make sure to seal it well and then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better as it lets the flavors really soak in!
3. Boil the Eggs:
While the sausage is pickling, get the eggs ready! Put them in a pot and cover them with water, then bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let them simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Cool and Peel the Eggs:
After 10 minutes, carefully drain the hot water and transfer the eggs into a bowl filled with ice water. Let them cool down completely. Once they’re cool, gently tap them to crack the shell and peel them under running water to make it easier!
5. Make the Mustard Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the Dijon mustard and mayonnaise until smooth. Once you’ve peeled the eggs, cut them in half lengthwise and spoon the mustard mixture on top of each half. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve It Up:
Now it’s time to serve! Arrange the pickled summer sausage slices on a nice platter next to your mustard eggs. For a pop of color, garnish the eggs with some freshly chopped parsley or chives if you like.
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this delightful snack or appetizer with some tasty crackers or fresh bread. It’s packed with flavor, and your friends and family will love it!
This easy combination of tangy pickled sausage and creamy mustard eggs makes for a truly delightful savory bite!
FAQ for Easy Pickled Summer Sausage with Mustard Eggs
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While summer sausage is ideal for pickling, you can also use other types such as kielbasa or a smoked sausage. Just note that the flavor profile will change slightly based on the sausage you choose.
How Long Do the Pickled Sausages Last?
Once pickled, the summer sausage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just keep it in a sealed container to maintain freshness. Make sure to keep it submerged in the pickling liquid for the best flavor!
Can I Make Mustard Eggs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mustard mixture and boil the eggs a day in advance. Just keep the eggs in their shells in the fridge until you’re ready to serve to prevent them from drying out.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Try serving it with some crunchy crackers, a fresh salad, or even some sliced vegetables for dipping. It also goes great with cheeses and olives for a fun platter!
