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.
Whenever I make this Pickle Lovers Meal, it turns into a fun gathering with friends. There is something about the combination of fried pickles and pickled snacks that gets everyone grinning and reaching for seconds!
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, 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 My family loves sharing this pickle meal on summer weekends—the kids race to grab the fried pickles before they disappear, and it is always a lively, laughter-filled table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or chips for a heartier experience or pair alongside a crisp lager or dry Riesling for the adults.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls, mixing bowls, a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, and a serving platter are all needed for this recipe.
Allergen and Nutrition Information
Contains milk, wheat, eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), possible soy. Always verify ingredient labels. Calories per serving: 420, Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 17 g.
Save This playful pickle feast guarantees plenty of crunch and zesty flavors with every bite. Enjoy making and sharing for any occasion!
Recipe Questions
- → How do you keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain pickles well before coating and serve immediately after frying to preserve crispiness.
- → Can I make this meal vegan?
Yes. Use vegan cheese, plant-based deli slices, and dairy-free ranch for a fully vegan spread.
- → Which pickled vegetables work best?
Carrots, onions, green beans, jalapeños, and cauliflower offer great texture and flavor variety for the platter.
- → What is a good dipping sauce for pickles?
Ranch dressing mixed with pickle brine and fresh dill gives a tangy, creamy dip that pairs perfectly.
- → What pairs well with this meal?
Crisp lager, dry Riesling, crusty bread, or crunchy chips are delicious companions to the tangy bites.