11 Inventive Savory Garnishes for Bloody Mary Cocktails

Are you tired of the same old Bloody Mary routine? While this classic cocktail is beloved for its bold flavors and eye-opening kick, you can shake it up and add a some pizzazz with exciting savory garnishes.

From crispy bacon to tangy pickles, these additions not only enhance the taste but also make your drink look incredible – and incredibly yummy.

Bloody Mary cocktail on bar counter garnished with greens and cherry tomatoes

The Classic Garnishes

Before we get to some exciting new ideas, let’s make sure you know the classics. You can never go wrong with the following:

Celery stick: A traditional garnish that adds a satisfying crunch and freshness to your cocktail.

Lemon wedge: A simple yet essential addition that enhances the citrusy flavors of the drink.

Olives: Whether stuffed or pitted, olives provide a briny contrast to the rich and spicy Bloody Mary mix.

Pickles: Dill pickles or pickled vegetables bring a tangy and crunchy element to the cocktail.

Exciting New Savory Garnishes

1. Crispy Bacon Strips

Who can resist crispy, salty bacon? Adding a strip or two to your Bloody Mary not only infuses it with smoky flavor but also gives it a satisfying crunch.

Just cook some bacon until it’s crispy. You can skewer the bacon strips or drape them over the rim of the glass. It’s the perfect counterbalance to all that tangy tomato juice.

2. Spicy Pickled Vegetables

Pickled veggies add a zesty kick and a wonderful crunch to your Bloody Mary. From spicy green beans to crunchy okra to jalapenos, the options are endless.

Choose your favorite pickled vegetables from a store, or make your own. Skewer them and place them on top of your cocktail for a colorful and flavorful garnish.

And definitely experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.

3. Stuffed Olives

Stuffed olives add a burst of briny flavor and also look elegant. Whether they’re filled with blue cheese or jalapenos, they’re sure to impress.

Thread stuffed olives onto a cocktail pick and place them in your Bloody Mary for a sophisticated twist. If you go with a cheese or creamy filling, it complements the spicy tomato base beautifully.

4. Mini Sliders or Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Think bold, and take indulgence to the next level by adding mini sliders or grilled cheese sandwiches as garnishes. These savory treats are perfect for soaking up the delicious Bloody Mary mix.

Prepare mini sliders or grilled cheese sandwiches using your favorite ingredients. Then skewer them and perch them on the rim of your glass.

Not only do they taste amazing, but they also add a fun element to your cocktail presentation.

5. Celery Stalks with Herbed Salt

While celery is a classic garnish for Bloody Marys, you can elevate it by seasoning it with herbed salt. The fragrant blend of herbs adds depth of flavor and a gourmet touch.

Rub celery stalks with a mixture of salt and your favorite herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary). Place them in your Bloody Mary for a refreshing and aromatic garnish.

The combination of crisp celery and aromatic herbs is simply irresistible.

6. Smoked Salt Rim:

We recently covered how you can dress up both the presentation and flavor of your Bloody Mary by adding a smoked salt rim to the glass. This simple yet effective technique adds a smoky depth that enhances the overall drinking experience.

Start by pouring a small amount of smoked salt onto a shallow plate or saucer. Run a wedge of lime or lemon around the rim of your glass to moisten it slightly.

Gently dip the moistened rim into the smoked salt, rotating the glass to ensure an even coating. Fill the glass with your Bloody Mary mixture, allowing the savory flavors to mingle with the smoky aroma of the salt.

Tip: Experiment with different types of smoked salt, such as hickory or mesquite, to find the perfect complement to your Bloody Mary recipe. You can customize the intensity of the smokiness by adjusting the amount of salt used or by combining smoked salt with other seasonings, such as chili powder or paprika, for a unique twist.

7. Pepperoncinis

These mild Italian peppers offer a subtle heat and tanginess that complements the savory notes of the drink. They’re cut as rings, so you can skewer them or just lay them on top of the drink.

8. Shrimp Cocktail

Add a skewer of grilled or pan seared shrimp to your Bloody Mary. You can also use bacon wrapped shrimp, making it a combination of the bacon and shrimp garnishes.