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.
I first made this meal for my family of pickle fans, and it instantly became a favorite at game night gatherings. The fried pickles draw everyone in, while the pickled-wrapped bites are always a conversation starter.
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 to Pinterest Everyone had fun picking their favorites and comparing dipped bites. My kids loved helping assemble the pickle-wrapped bites, making it a hands-on kitchen experience we still talk about.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or chips for a heartier meal, and pair with a crisp lager or dry Riesling for added refreshment.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls, mixing bowls, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, serving platter.
Allergen & Nutritional Information
Contains: Milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch dressing), Wheat (flour), Eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), Possible Soy (deli meats, cheese). Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 17 g per serving.
Save to Pinterest This pickle lovers meal brings together fun, crunch, and flavor with every bite. Enjoy experimenting with different pickled veggies and sharing the platter with friends.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I make this meal vegan?
Yes, substitute vegan cheese, plant-based deli slices, and dairy-free ranch for a fully vegan platter.
- → What pickles work best for frying?
Dill pickle chips or spears are recommended, as they offer the perfect balance of tang and texture.
- → How do I prevent soggy fried pickles?
Pat the pickles dry before breading and fry in hot oil until golden, then drain on paper towels.
- → What side dishes pair well?
Try crispy chips, crusty bread, or serve alongside a fresh salad to complement the tangy flavors.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for the coating and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- → How spicy can I make it?
Add pickled jalapeños, hot sauce to the dip, or more cayenne to the coating for extra heat.