Save to Pinterest 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 pickle lovers meal for a gathering of family and friends, and it was an instant hit. No one could resist grabbing seconds, especially the golden fried pickles and the cheesy, savory pickled-wrapped bites. It quickly became the centerpiece for our summer get-togethers.
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
- Dill pickle spears: 8 large
- 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 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 to Pinterest My kids always compete to see who can make the most creative pickle wraps. Last Sunday, my youngest layered extra cheese and a spicy jalapeño for a new family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or chips for a more substantial meal. This meal pairs well with a crisp lager or a refreshing dry Riesling.
Allergen & Nutrition
Per serving: 420 calories, 22 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, 17 g protein. If using deli meats, check for additional allergens and always verify ingredient labels.
Make It Your Own
Swap in any favorite pickled vegetables for your custom platter, and adjust spice levels with hot sauce or extra jalapeños to suit your taste.
Save to Pinterest This pickle-packed plate is sure to inspire joyful bites and smiles. Enjoy every crisp, tangy crunch!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of pickles work best for frying?
Dill pickle chips or spears that are drained and patted dry give the crispiest results when fried.
- → Can I make these bites vegetarian or vegan?
Vegetarian options use cheese and omit meat; vegan versions substitute plant-based cheese and deli slices.
- → How do I achieve extra crunchiness on fried pickles?
Using cornmeal in the coating and ensuring pickles are very dry before dredging helps maximize crispiness.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well with this platter?
A simple blend of ranch dressing, pickle brine, and fresh dill adds tang and complements pickled flavors perfectly.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Add pickled jalapeños to the platter or mix hot sauce into the dipping sauce for extra heat.
- → Are there gluten-free alternatives?
Swap flour and cornmeal for gluten-free versions to make the fried pickles suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.