Transform your appetizer game with these Whole30 Sweet and Spicy Little Smokies—a deliciously bold and guilt-free snack perfect for any occasion! These irresistible cocktail sausages are simmered to perfection in a naturally sweet and tangy sauce made from Medjool dates, coconut aminos, and almond butter, delivering a flawless balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors. Enhanced with a hint of smoked paprika and cayenne for a fiery kick, this dairy-free and gluten-free recipe is not only Whole30-compliant but also quick to prepare, with just 10 minutes of prep time. Serve them warm as the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or party treat, and watch them disappear in no time! Perfect for game days, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a touch of healthy indulgence.
In a small bowl, soak the pitted Medjool dates in warm water for 5 minutes to soften them.
Drain the dates and transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add 0.5 cup of water and blend until a smooth paste forms.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the date paste, coconut aminos, unsalted almond butter, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and begins to simmer.
Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and ground black pepper to the sauce, stirring to incorporate the spices.
Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce will thicken slightly.
Add the Whole30-compliant cocktail sausages to the saucepan, tossing them to coat evenly in the sweet and spicy sauce.
Cover the saucepan and cook on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausages are heated through and fully infused with flavor.
Serve warm as an appetizer. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color.
Calories |
2132 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 122.5 g | 157% | |
| Saturated Fat | 41.3 g | 206% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 239 mg | 80% | |
| Sodium | 6234 mg | 271% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 210.9 g | 77% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.6 g | 74% | |
| Total Sugars | 173.7 g | ||
| Protein | 57.5 g | 115% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 337 mg | 26% | |
| Iron | 8.0 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 2772 mg | 59% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.