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.
As a lifelong pickle fan, this meal always brings smiles to our table: the crispy fried pickles paired with tangy veggies quickly disappear at gatherings, and even skeptical guests end up reaching for seconds.
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 This meal is always a hit with my family: everyone loves building their own pickle platter and dipping each bite into the tangy sauce together.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls, mixing bowls, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, and a serving platter are needed for preparing and serving this meal.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch dressing), wheat (flour), eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), and possible soy (deli meats, cheese). Always check individual labels if allergic.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 17 g.
Save Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor: this pickle lovers meal makes entertaining fun and delicious!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I make the fried pickles without buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with plain yogurt thinned with a little milk or use non-dairy alternatives for a similar effect.
- → Are vegan options available for this meal?
Absolutely! Substitute vegan cheese and plant-based deli slices for the pickled-wrapped bites. Choose an egg-free ranch for the dipping sauce.
- → What types of pickled vegetables work best for the platter?
Pickled carrots, onions, green beans, jalapeños, and cauliflower are excellent options. Mix and match to suit your taste.
- → Is this meal suitable for a gathering?
Yes, its colorful assortment makes it ideal for sharing at parties, game nights, or family dinners. Serve on a large platter for easy snacking.
- → How do I keep fried pickles crunchy?
Drain on paper towels and serve immediately. Avoid overcrowding while frying and keep batches warm in the oven if needed.
- → What drinks pair well with this spread?
Crisp lagers or dry white wines, such as Riesling, balance the tang and spice for a refreshing experience.