Savory Ice Pops: A Refreshing Twist on Appetizers
Category: Appetizers
Servings: 4
Savory ice pops are a delightful way to cool off during warm days while offering a burst of flavor that combines the freshness of vegetables with a touch of spice. These two refreshing flavors, featuring cherry tomatoes and cucumber, are perfect for an appetizer or as a cool treat at a summer gathering. The process involves creating a simple syrup and then combining it with fresh ingredients like juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, crisp cucumbers, and a zing of ginger. Here’s how you can make them:
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 100g |
| Sugar | 25g |
| Cherry Tomatoes (datterini) | 140g |
| Tabasco® (or hot sauce) | 5g |
| Fresh Basil | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | To taste |
| Fine Salt | A pinch |
| Cucumbers | 100g |
| Lemon Juice | 50g |
| Fresh Ginger | 15g |
| Lemons | 1 |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Syrup
- Start by preparing a simple syrup to use for both pops. In a small saucepan, combine 100g of water with 25g of sugar.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has fully dissolved. Remove from the heat and let it cool down.
Step 2: Cherry Tomato Ice Pops
- For the first flavor, rinse the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Place them in a blender.
- Blend until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and 5g of Tabasco® (or your preferred hot sauce) to the strained tomato juice, mixing well to incorporate.
- Transfer the mixture into a small jug for easy pouring. Carefully pour the tomato mixture into ice pop molds (each mold should be about 70cl in capacity).
- Gently place fresh basil leaves into each mold, pressing them lightly into the liquid.
- Insert the wooden sticks into the molds and place them in the freezer. Allow the pops to freeze for at least 6 hours.
Step 3: Cucumber and Ginger Ice Pops
- For the second flavor, slice 4 thin rounds of cucumber and set them aside for decoration. Peel the remaining cucumber and cut it into chunks.
- Place the cucumber chunks in the blender, along with the pulp from 1 lemon and 15g of fresh ginger.
- Blend until smooth and strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids.
- Add the remaining sweet syrup (about 70g) and a splash of extra virgin olive oil to the cucumber mixture. Season with black pepper to taste.
- Place the reserved cucumber slices and lemon segments into the ice pop molds.
- Pour the cucumber, ginger, and lemon mixture into the molds, filling them up.
- Insert the sticks and place the molds back in the freezer. Freeze for at least 6 hours to ensure they set completely.
Tips for Success:
- Flavor Variations: You can experiment with adding other herbs like mint or dill to the cucumber mixture or swapping the tomatoes for other summer fruits like watermelon or berries for a unique twist.
- Storage: These ice pops can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week, ensuring you always have a cool, savory treat ready to enjoy.
- Serving: Once frozen, dip the molds briefly in warm water to loosen the pops. Serve them on their own or as a fun, cooling appetizer at your next barbecue or party.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 kcal |
| Protein | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
These savory ice pops not only refresh but are also light and healthy, making them
