Save A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickled-wrapped bites that is perfect for true pickle enthusiasts.
I first made this Pickle Lovers Meal for a game night with my friends, who absolutely love pickles. The crispy fried pickles disappeared in minutes, and the pickled-wrapped bites became the highlight of the evening. It was so much fun watching everyone build their own pickle platter.
Ingredients
- Dill pickle chips or spears: Drained and patted dry, about 2 cups
- Buttermilk: 1 cup, for dipping pickles
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup, for dredging
- Cornmeal: 1 cup, for crunchy coating
- Paprika: 1 tsp, for flavor
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp, for extra taste
- Onion powder: 1/2 tsp, to boost flavor
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp, for optional spice
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Vegetable oil: For frying
- Dill pickle spears: 8 large spears
- Swiss or cheddar cheese: 8 slices
- Deli turkey or ham: 8 slices (optional, omit for vegetarian)
- Pickled carrots: 1 cup
- Pickled onions: 1 cup
- Pickled green beans: 1 cup
- Pickled jalapeños: 1 cup
- Pickled cauliflower or favorite pickled vegetables: 1 cup
- Ranch dressing: 1/2 cup, for dipping sauce
- Pickle brine: 2 tbsp, adds tang
- Fresh dill: 1 tbsp, chopped
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 vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet. Fry pickles in batches for 2 to 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 turkey or ham if using. Place a pickle spear at one end; 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 My family loves making this meal together, especially rolling up the pickled-wrapped bites. It always sparks laughter and plenty of taste-testing before we even sit down at the table.
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), and possible soy (deli meats, cheese). If using deli meats, check for additional allergens. Always verify ingredient labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 17 g
Save This tangy platter is sure to impress any pickle fan. Set out plenty of napkins and let everyone dig in!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain pickles thoroughly before coating and fry at 350°F. Let them rest on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- → Can I make this meal vegan?
Yes, substitute vegan cheese and plant-based deli slices. Use vegan ranch for the dipping sauce.
- → What pickled vegetables work best?
Choose pickled carrots, onions, green beans, jalapeños, or cauliflower for variety and color.
- → Is there a recommended dipping sauce?
A blend of ranch, pickle brine, and fresh dill offers creamy, tangy flavor ideal for all components.
- → What can I serve with this meal?
Crusty bread, chips, or cut vegetables make great accompaniments. Pair with crisp lager or dry Riesling.
- → Are there allergen concerns?
This meal may contain milk, wheat, eggs, or soy. Check all labels if managing allergies.