Fire Crackers

Summer is here, and for us that means lots of baseball games, BBQs, and mowing. With all of that going on, I love quick potluck dishes I can make in a snap. I thought I'd share some guy friendly ones, with Father's Day coming up soon.

Today I'll start with an easy snack. Fire Crackers.

These are a lot like the ranch oyster crackers my mom always made. I don't want to take credit for this "recipe". My husband brought this one home from work. They are actually really good! They are super spicy, perfect snack food with a nice cold beer. He's taken them to trap shoots and poker games. I bet they'd be great with chili!

OK, gather your goodies.
1 box saltine crackers (4 sleeves)
1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch mix
1 packet Good Seasons Zesty Italian dressing mix
1 c. canola oil
I've seen other recipes calling for as little as 1/2 c. oil and as much as 1 2/3 c. Up to you!
1 Tbsp. crushed red pepper flakes
1 1/2 Tbsp. cayenne pepper

Open the sleeves of crackers and stack them in a large plastic container. Mine is a Ziploc rectangle, and holds all of them, just barely. I start with three sleeves and then lay some crackers on top before putting the lid on. You could also use a large Ziploc bag.

Mix all the dressing ingredients together. Pour it evenly over the crackers. Snap on the lid, and turn upside down to allow the dressing to soak into all of the crackers. I flip the container every so often, whenever I pass by in the kitchen. Try for every hour or so. The crackers will soak up all the dressing and not get soggy.  No baking required.

They are super spicy though - make sure you warn folks if serving at a party! Let me know if you try them. I have made a less fiery version, using Wildtree red pepper & garlic blend. They were tasty too.  Happy snacking!