Pin this A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickled-wrapped bites. This meal is perfect for true pickle enthusiasts looking for maximum flavor and fun in every bite.
My family loves pickles in all forms, and the first time I served this meal, it turned regular dinner into a pickle party. Everyone kept reaching for seconds and mixing their favorites for new combinations.
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.
Pin this Whenever my kids help assemble the platter, they love choosing their favorite pickled veggies and creating their own mini sandwiches. It has become a fun tradition for family game nights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pickle Lovers Meal with crusty bread or potato chips for extra crunch, alongside chilled drinks like crisp lager or dry Riesling for a refreshing contrast.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch dressing), wheat (flour), eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), and possible soy (deli meats, cheese). Always verify ingredient labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 420 calories, 22 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 17 g protein.
Pin this The Pickle Lovers Meal brings tang and crunch to any gathering. You can mix and match your favorite pickled vegetables for endless combinations.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain fried pickles on paper towels right after frying. Serve immediately to maintain their crispness.
- → Can I make the platter vegan?
Yes! Substitute vegan cheese and plant-based deli slices for a fully vegan version of the bites.
- → What dipping sauce pairs best?
A ranch dipping sauce with fresh dill and pickle brine complements the platter's tangy flavors beautifully.
- → Can I prepare any components ahead?
Fried pickles are best fresh, but pickled vegetables and wrapped bites can be assembled in advance and chilled.
- → How spicy can this meal be?
Adjust heat by adding pickled jalapeños or mixing hot sauce into the dipping sauce for extra spice.
- → What drinks pair well?
Crisp lagers or dry Rieslings balance the tang and crunch of this meal, making great pairings.