Wicket’s Wedges: A Savory Slice of Nostalgia

I can still picture the faded, floral wallpaper of the Carlisle House Inn, the soft murmur of conversation, and the comforting aroma of these little savory wedges baking in the kitchen. My family used to visit every summer, and these were always a staple on the appetizer menu, disappearing almost as quickly as they were served. There was something so incredibly satisfying about the combination of salty olives, sharp cheddar, and the slight tang of curry powder – a truly unforgettable flavor profile. To this day, a single bite of Wicket’s Wedges instantly transports me back to those carefree summer afternoons.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
• Total Time: 15-17 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Yield: 48 Wedges
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup chopped ripe olives
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced onion
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use a high-quality brand for the best flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon curry powder (adjust to taste)
• 8 English muffins, split

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Toaster or broiler

Instructions

1. Preheat your broiler. Position a rack about 6 inches from the heat source. This ensures even browning without burning.
2. Split the English muffins in half. Toast them lightly. You want them sturdy enough to hold the topping without being rock hard. A light golden color is ideal.
3. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chopped ripe olives, thinly sliced onion, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, salt, and curry powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and coated in the mayonnaise.
4. Spread the olive and cheese mixture generously and evenly onto each of the toasted English muffin halves. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor in every bite.
5. Arrange the topped English muffin halves on a baking sheet.
6. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops are lightly browned. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. The timing can vary depending on your broiler.
7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the muffins cool slightly before cutting each half into 6 wedges. This makes them easy to handle and share.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
• To prevent the English muffins from becoming soggy, ensure they are lightly toasted before adding the topping.
• If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the wedges in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
• Shredding your own cheese from a block yields a superior flavor and texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This makes it quick and easy to assemble the wedges when you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to bring the mixture to room temperature for about 15 minutes before spreading it on the muffins.
• The quality of the mayonnaise really shines through in this recipe. I recommend a full-fat mayonnaise for the best flavor and creaminess.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Wicket’s Wedges warm, right after they come out of the broiler. They make a fantastic appetizer for parties, game nights, or casual get-togethers. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of hot sauce for added visual appeal and flavor.

Leftover wedges can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly again. While they are best served fresh, reheating works well.

I don’t recommend freezing the wedges, as the texture of the English muffins and cheese topping can change upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (6 wedges)	% Daily Value*
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	15g	23%
Saturated Fat	8g	40%
Cholesterol	30mg	10%
Sodium	700mg	30%
Total Carbohydrate	20g	7%
Dietary Fiber	2g	8%
Sugars	3g
Protein	10g	20%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Wedges: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a kick.
• Mediterranean Wedges: Substitute the cheddar cheese with feta cheese and add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Kalamata olives.
• Pizza Wedges: Replace the curry powder with Italian seasoning and add diced pepperoni or sausage to the cheese mixture.
• Gluten-Free Wedges: Use gluten-free English muffins or a gluten-free bread alternative.
• Vegan Wedges: Use vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free cheddar cheese shreds. Ensure your English muffins are vegan as well, as some contain dairy.
• Herby Wedges: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for an aromatic twist.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of shredding my own?
A: Yes, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly and have a better flavor.

Q: How do I prevent the English muffins from burning under the broiler?
A: Keep a close eye on the muffins while they are broiling and adjust the rack position if needed. You can also tent them with foil if they are browning too quickly.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the wedges just before baking.

Q: What if I don’t have curry powder?
A: You can use a pinch of turmeric and cumin as a substitute for curry powder.

Q: Are these good for a party appetizer?
A: Absolutely! Wicket’s Wedges are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that are easy to make and serve.

Final Thoughts

Wicket’s Wedges are more than just a recipe; they’re a little slice of history, a memory rekindled with every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the unique combination of flavors for yourself. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to create your own signature version. Share your creations and feedback, and let’s keep the legacy of Wicket’s Wedges alive! They pair perfectly with a crisp, cold beer or a glass of sparkling cider. Enjoy!