Pin 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 craving big flavor and lots of crunch.
This meal was a hit at my last family gathering. Everyone, from die-hard pickle fans to first-timers, loved assembling their own platter and dipping everything into the herby sauce.
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. 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. Drain on paper towels.
- Make the Pickled-Wrapped Bites:
- Lay each cheese slice on a flat surface and top with 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:
- Mix ranch dressing, pickle brine, and chopped dill in a bowl until combined. Serve alongside the platter.
Pin Our family loves making this meal together, setting out all the bowls, and arguing over who gets the last fried pickle chip. It brings a playful energy to the table every single time.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls, mixing bowls, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains: milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch dressing), wheat (flour), eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), possible soy (deli meats, cheese). If using deli meats, check for additional allergens. Always verify ingredient labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420, total fat: 22 g, carbohydrates: 38 g, protein: 17 g
Pin With this meal, pickle fans can enjoy bold flavors and lots of fun. Serve it for a surprising appetizer or a playful dinner that's sure to impress.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain fried pickles on paper towels immediately after frying and serve promptly to maintain crispiness.
- → Can I make this platter vegan?
Substitute vegan cheese and plant-based deli slices for a fully vegan meal option.
- → What dipping sauce pairs best?
A mix of ranch dressing, pickle brine, and fresh dill creates a tangy, herby sauce for dipping.
- → What pickled vegetables work well?
Try carrots, onions, green beans, jalapeños, cauliflower, or any of your favorites for variety and color.
- → How do I add extra heat?
Use pickled jalapeños in the platter or add hot sauce to the dipping sauce for a spicy kick.