Save A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickled-wrapped bites—perfect for true pickle enthusiasts.
I made this pickle lovers meal for a family movie night, and it quickly became a staple snack in our home whenever we crave something tangy and fun.
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 Gathering around the platter with loved ones, everyone chose their favorite pickled treat and dipped to their heart's delight—it sparked fun conversation and happy, crunchy moments together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pickled platter with crusty bread or chips for a more filling meal, and try it with a crisp lager or dry Riesling to balance the tangy flavors.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls, mixing bowls, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch dressing), Wheat (flour), Eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), possible soy (deli meats, cheese). Always verify ingredient labels if concerned about allergens.
Save This pickle lovers meal is a playful centerpiece for any casual gathering, sure to delight anyone with a passion for all things pickled.
Cooking Questions
- → How do I keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain pickles well before coating, and place fried pickles on paper towels after cooking to keep them crisp.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Substitute plant-based cheese and deli slices and use vegan ranch dressing for a delicious vegan variation.
- → What pickled vegetables work best?
Pickled carrots, onions, green beans, cauliflower, and jalapeños offer great flavor and crunch. Choose your favorites.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal to adapt this meal for gluten-free preferences.
- → What sauce pairs well?
A dill-infused ranch with a splash of pickle brine is ideal, or try spicy mayo or yogurt-based dips.
- → How can I serve this for a crowd?
Prepare larger batches and serve on a big platter with assorted breads and chips for sharing.