Pin A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickled-wrapped bites. This Pickle Lovers Meal is perfect for true pickle enthusiasts and makes a delicious vegetarian main dish for any occasion.
I first made this spread for a family game night. Everyone ended up picking favorites from the platter and loving the crispy fried pickles, even those who weren&t sure they liked pickles before.
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 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 Platefuls of pickled goodness have been a family tradition, especially when we gather outdoors. Everyone enjoys building their pickle creations and sharing new flavor combinations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or chips for a more substantial spread. A crisp lager or dry Riesling pairs wonderfully to balance the tang.
Required Tools
You&ll need shallow bowls, mixing bowls, a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, and a serving platter to prepare and assemble your meal.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch dressing), wheat (flour), eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), possible soy (deli meats, cheese). Always check ingredient labels if you have allergy concerns.
Pin This meal brings surprise and delight to pickle lovers of all ages. Enjoy every tangy, crunchy bite!
Recipe Questions
- → What type of pickles work best for frying?
Dill pickle chips or spears are ideal for frying, providing the perfect tang and crunch.
- → Can the platter be made vegan?
Yes, substitute vegan cheese and plant-based deli slices for a fully plant-based feast.
- → How do I get fried pickles extra crispy?
Pat pickles dry before dipping, use cornmeal in the coating, and fry at 350°F for best results.
- → Are there dipping sauce variations?
Add hot sauce, extra pickle brine, or chopped fresh herbs for personalized dipping sauces.
- → What drink pairs well with this meal?
Crisp lagers or dry white wines like Riesling complement the tangy, crunchy flavors beautifully.