Save to Pinterest 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). This Pickle Lovers Meal brings a spread of briny favorites together for fun and flavor in every bite.
I first made this feast for a backyard gathering, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. Everyone loved the combination of textures and the playful way each bite highlighted the joy of pickles.
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 and press 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 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 combined. Serve alongside the platter.
Save to Pinterest My whole family gathers around the table whenever I bring this out, and even picky eaters find favorite bites among the creative pickle arrangements. It is a recipe that gets everyone talking and sharing.
Serving Suggestions
Offer this meal with cold lager or a dry Riesling (for adults) to complement the tangy flavors. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley add a refreshing touch scattered over the platter.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls, mixing bowls, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, and serving platter make for easy and effective results.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
This recipe contains milk, wheat, and may include eggs and soy depending on ingredient choices. Each serving has about 420 calories, 22 g fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 17 g protein.
Save to Pinterest With its combination of crunch, tang, and vibrant colors, this Pickle Lovers Meal makes any gathering instantly more fun. It is sure to delight every pickle enthusiast at the table.
Ask About This Recipe
- → How do you make fried pickles crispy?
Use a cornmeal and flour coating and fry pickles at 350°F in shallow oil until golden and crisp. Ensure pickles are dry first.
- → Can I make this meal vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute vegan cheese and plant-based deli slices and use dairy-free dressing in the dipping sauce.
- → What dipping sauce pairs best?
A creamy ranch dressing enhanced with pickle brine and fresh dill offers tang and richness, complementing the pickled flavors.
- → Which pickled vegetables work well?
Pickled carrots, onions, green beans, jalapeños, and cauliflower all add crunch and tang; customize with your favorites.
- → What can I serve with this platter?
Crusty bread, chips, or even a refreshing lager or Riesling are excellent choices to complete the meal.
- → Is there a gluten-free option?
Swap the all-purpose flour and cornmeal coating with gluten-free blends for crispy fried pickles. Verify all ingredients.