Save to Pinterest A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickle-wrapped bites. This meal is perfect for true pickle enthusiasts seeking bold flavors and satisfying textures.
The first time I made this platter, it quickly became a favorite at gatherings—everyone loved sampling the crispy fried pickles alongside the tangy pickled veggies. It has since become a must whenever my family craves a unique and interactive main dish.
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, pickle-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 to Pinterest Serving this with my kids around the table always leads to laughter as they try each pickled bite and vote for their favorites. It's a meal that brings everyone together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the Pickle Lovers Meal with crusty bread or chips to add heartiness. For beverages, a crisp lager or dry Riesling matches the tangy flavors perfectly.
Make It Vegan
Substitute vegan cheese and plant-based deli slices in the wrapped bites, and use a dairy-free ranch for dipping. All the crispy and tangy joy without any animal products.
Allergen Information
This dish contains milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch), wheat (flour), eggs (may be present in ranch), and possible soy (deli meats, cheese). Always check labels and ingredients for food allergies.
Save to Pinterest This recipe will win over anyone with a craving for crunch and tang. Enjoy immediately for the tastiest pickle experience.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of pickles work best?
Dill pickle chips or spears are ideal; they hold shape and provide classic tangy flavor.
- → Can I make this meal vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute vegan cheese and plant-based deli slices in the wrapped bites.
- → Which oil is best for frying pickles?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil.
- → Are there low-spice options?
Skip cayenne and jalapeños for a milder taste; adjust dipping sauce to suit spice preferences.
- → What sides pair well?
Serve with crusty bread, chips, or pair with a crisp lager or dry Riesling for balance.
- → How do I make the dipping sauce?
Mix ranch dressing, pickle brine, and chopped dill for a creamy, tangy complement to pickled foods.