Save A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and playful pickled-wrapped bites—this meal is perfect for true pickle enthusiasts.
I first brought this pickle lovers meal to a family game night, and everyone loved building their own crunchy pickle platter. It&s now our go-to option for parties or anytime someone craves a salty snack fix.
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 (optional): 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Vegetable oil: for frying
- Large dill pickle spears: 8
- Swiss or cheddar cheese: 8 slices
- Deli turkey or ham (optional): 8 slices, omit for vegetarian
- Pickled carrots: 1 cup
- Pickled onions: 1 cup
- Pickled green beans: 1 cup
- Pickled jalapeños: 1 cup
- Pickled cauliflower or favorite pickled vegetables: 1 cup
- Ranch dressing: 1/2 cup
- Pickle brine: 2 tbsp
- Chopped fresh dill: 1 tbsp
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 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 well combined. Serve alongside the platter.
Save This pickle platter sparks instant nostalgia for our summertime picnics, when everyone would fight over the last fried pickle and my aunt would sneak extra jalapeños onto her plate.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty bread, chips, or crackers to round out the meal. It&s especially tasty alongside a crisp lager or a glass of dry Riesling.
Variations
Mix up the pickled vegetables for new flavors, or swap in spicy pickles if you like more heat. Experiment with cheese types for different tastes.
Storage Tips
Fried pickles are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain crunch. Store extra pickled vegetables in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Save This pickle lovers meal brings smiles with every bite. Assemble your platter and dig in for a tangy, crunchy celebration.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain on paper towels after frying and serve immediately for best crunch.
- → Can I make this platter vegan?
Yes, use vegan cheese and plant-based deli slices for the wrapped bites.
- → What pickled vegetables work best?
Carrots, onions, green beans, jalapeños, and cauliflower offer a great range of flavors and textures.
- → Is this meal spicy?
It can be if you use pickled jalapeños or add cayenne and hot sauce to the dipping sauce.
- → What is a good beverage pairing?
A crisp lager or dry Riesling complements tangy, savory flavors beautifully.
- → What tools do I need?
You'll need shallow bowls, a deep skillet, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, and a serving platter.