Save 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 created this meal to celebrate all things pickled at a family game night, and not only did it spark lively conversation, but it disappeared in record time.
Ingredients
- Dill pickle chips or spears: 2 cups, drained and patted dry
- Buttermilk: 1 cup
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup
- Cornmeal: 1 cup
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Onion powder: 1/2 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Vegetable oil: for frying
- Dill pickle spears: 8 large
- 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: 1 cup, or any favorite pickled vegetables
- Ranch dressing: 1/2 cup
- Pickle brine: 2 tbsp
- 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 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 Sharing a platter like this always brings out smiles, especially for my daughter who claims pickles as her ultimate comfort food.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or chips to add heartiness to the meal, and pair with a crisp lager or a dry Riesling for a refreshing complement.
Allergen Information
This meal contains milk, wheat, and may contain eggs or soy depending on ingredient brands. Always verify labels if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.
Nutrition
Each serving has approximately 420 calories, 22 g fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 17 g protein, making it a satisfying option for vegetarians.
Save This savory, crowd-pleasing platter transforms simple pickles into true celebration. Enjoy on game night or any time you crave something bold and fun.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain fried pickles on paper towels immediately after frying, and serve them hot for maximum crunch.
- → What pickled vegetables work best for the platter?
Carrots, onions, green beans, jalapeños, and cauliflower offer varied flavors and textures. Use your favorites.
- → Can I make this meal vegetarian or vegan?
Omit deli meat and use vegan cheese and dressing to create a fully plant-based version of the platter.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well with these bites?
A mixture of ranch dressing, pickle brine, and fresh dill adds a creamy, tangy complement to the crunchy bites.
- → What is the best way to serve this meal?
Arrange everything on a large platter and serve with toothpicks and crusty bread for easy sharing and dipping.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free flour and breading for fried pickles and check cheese and sauces for gluten-containing ingredients.