RECIPE Wrapped Pickled Watermelon Rind

If you are looking for a conversation starter - I have TWO great recipes that are attention getters. Mention "pickled watermelon rind" or "pickled okra sandwiches" and I promise you will get a sneer or at least a raised eyebrow - but I guarantee your guests will be pleasantly surprised how great these apps really are! Try them out this holiday season. Be sure to check out more great recipes and party planning tips at my website.

Watermelon Pops
1 Jar Pickled Watermelon Rind
6 Slice Bacon, cut in 1/2
Parchment Paper

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Use a baking sheet that has a lip on it (watermelon rind is a little juicy and will drip if you don't) and line it with parchment paper for easy clean up. Drain the rind WELL. Roll each piece in the 1/2 slice of bacon and place on cookie pan with the seam UP.

Bake until golden brown. DO NOT OVERCOOK. Transfer the pops on a tray and watch your guests try them out!

Note: I have found that each jar of rind is different. Some will only have 8-10 large pieces of rind while others can hold 20 pieces or more. If you are planning a party using the "bites per person" method, you may have trouble figuring how many jars to buy. I suggest planning on each jar holding 12 pieces so it will average out. many stores won't carry but a handful of jars at a time so I buy these throughout the year and keep them on hand for when I have a large party and need them.

PICKLED OKRA TEA SANDWICHES

These little tea sandwiches may get a sneer at their name and green toppings, but one bite and everyone will be hooked. I serve these at all my functions as an extra treat and they are gone in a flash! I do have to credit Paula Dean for the original recipe, but I am sure she would be glad to share it with you herself if you asked her!

24 oz. Loaf of Sliced White Bread
8 oz. Softened Cream Cheese
16 oz. Jar of Pickled Okra, drained
1 Cup Finely chopped Fresh Parsley


Remove crusts from bread. With a rolling pin or smooth glass, roll each slice very thin. Coat each slice with cream cheese and place an okra spear in the center; roll up. Spread a light coat of cream cheese on the outside of each rolled up sandwich. Roll sandwich with sparsely. Cut into thirds , if desired.

Quick Hints:
It easiest to use your fingers to spread the cream cheese on the outside of each roll. My little girl loves to help with this part!
Always use the best brands of cream cheese and the cheapest brands of bread.
I use HOT okra and everyone loves it!
Don't prepare these too early or the bread will dry out. They can be kept in the refrigerator for a short time if necessary. My niece uses flour tortillas and says they are just as good and can keep longer.

For more great receipes visit http://www.thekendalcompanies.com/Recipes---DIY-Projects.html