Save A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickle-wrapped bites. Perfect for true pickle enthusiasts looking for a fun, flavorful meal.
I put together this pickle lovers meal after experimenting with fried pickles at home. The playful combination won rave reviews from my family, who especially loved mixing and matching pickled bites with the creamy dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- For the Fried Pickles: 2 cups dill pickle chips or spears, drained and patted dry, 1 cup buttermilk, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup cornmeal, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Pickled-Wrapped Bites: 8 large dill pickle spears, 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese, 8 slices deli turkey or ham (optional, omit for vegetarian)
- Assorted Pickled Vegetables: 1 cup pickled carrots, 1 cup pickled onions, 1 cup pickled green beans, 1 cup pickled jalapeños, 1 cup pickled cauliflower or any favorite pickled vegetables
- Dipping Sauce: 1/2 cup ranch dressing, 2 tbsp pickle brine, 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Prepare the Fried Pickles:
- Pour buttermilk into a shallow bowl. In another bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Dip each pickle chip or spear into the buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet. Fry pickles in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Pickled-Wrapped Bites:
- Lay each cheese slice on a flat surface and top with a slice of turkey or ham if using. Place a pickle spear at one end and roll up tightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Assemble the Pickled Platter:
- Arrange fried pickles, pickled-wrapped bites, and assorted pickled vegetables on a serving platter.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing, pickle brine, and fresh dill until well combined. Serve alongside the platter.
Save When I introduced the platter at a family Sunday lunch, everyone grabbed their favorites: my niece loved the pickled carrots while my brother kept sneaking extra fried pickles. It was the perfect meal for sharing laughs and good food.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your pickle lovers meal with crusty bread or potato chips for a heartier feast. Pair with a crisp lager or dry Riesling for a refreshing complement.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch dressing), wheat (flour), eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), possible soy (deli meats, cheese). If using deli meats, check for additional allergens. Always verify ingredient labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving contains approximately: 420 calories, 22 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, 17 g protein.
Save This pickle lovers meal delivers big flavor, fun textures, and endless options for sharing. Enjoy every tangy bite!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What pickles work best for frying?
Dill pickle chips or spears are ideal, as they're firm, tangy, and hold up beautifully when coated and fried.
- → Can I make this platter vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based cheese and deli slices, and use a dairy-free ranch dressing or similar for dipping.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well with pickles?
Creamy ranch mixed with pickle brine and fresh dill enhances the tang and complements the crunchy bites.
- → How do I keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain fried pickles on paper towels and serve immediately for the best crunch. Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying.
- → Are there gluten-free options for breading?
Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal in place of regular flour for a celiac-friendly option without sacrificing texture.