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.
The first time I made this Pickle Lovers Meal, the crispy fried pickles disappeared in minutes and everyone wanted seconds of the pickled-wrapped bites. It instantly became a favorite summer treat in our house.
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 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 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 This meal is always requested at family picnics and is the ultimate crowd-pleaser no matter the season.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pickle platter with crusty bread, chips, or pretzels. A cold lager or dry Riesling makes the flavors pop even more.
Allergen and Nutritional Info
Contains milk, wheat, and possible eggs or soy. Each serving has about 420 calories, 22 g fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 17 g protein.
Make It Your Own
Try different types of cheese, meats, or your favorite pickled vegetables. For extra heat, add hot sauce to the dipping sauce or mix in more pickled jalapeños.
Save Enjoy this playful pickle feast with your loved ones and watch it vanish from the table in no time.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I get fried pickles extra crispy?
Pat the pickles dry before battering, use a cornmeal-flour mix, and fry in hot oil at around 350°F for maximum crunch.
- → What cheese works best for the wrapped bites?
Swiss or cheddar are ideal for their flavor and texture, but try pepper jack for a spicy twist or vegan slices for plant-based options.
- → Can I use homemade pickled vegetables?
Absolutely. Homemade pickled carrots, onions, or green beans add freshness. Adjust spices to suit your taste.
- → Is there a vegan-friendly way to prepare this dish?
Substitute dairy cheese and buttermilk with plant-based alternatives and skip deli meats for a full vegan version.
- → What’s a good beverage pairing for this meal?
Crisp lagers, dry Rieslings, or cold lemonades balance the tangy and spicy flavors perfectly.
- → How do I keep fried pickles from getting soggy?
Drain them on paper towels and serve immediately for best texture and crunch.