Save A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickled-wrapped bites is perfect for true pickle enthusiasts. Whether you're serving this at a gathering or treating yourself, this Pickle Lovers Meal delivers bright flavors and satisfying crunch in every bite.
I created this Pickle Lovers Meal after a late-night craving inspired a kitchen experiment. The crispy fried pickles quickly became an obsession, and the pickled-wrapped bites add so much fun to the platter that they now make regular appearances at our parties.
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 any 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 My family loves piling all the pickles and veggies onto crackers and arguing over which dipping sauce wins. This platter turns into a fun game night centerpiece that always sparks laughter.
Pickle Substitutions & Additions
Try swapping in bread and butter pickles or spicy pickled vegetables to change the flavor profile, or add olives for even more briney crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or potato chips for a more substantial meal, and pair with a crisp lager or dry Riesling for extra zing.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Contains milk, wheat, eggs, and possible soy. Always check labels if you have allergies. Each serving offers 420 calories, 22 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 17 g protein.
Save This Pickle Lovers Meal turns any occasion into a brine-filled celebration. Make extra dipping sauce and let everyone discover their favorite combination!
Recipe Guide
- → Can dairy be substituted in this dish?
Absolutely, swap the buttermilk and cheese with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free platter.
- → How do you keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain on paper towels right after frying and serve promptly to maintain maximum crunch.
- → What other veggies can be pickled for this spread?
Try pickling beets, radishes, or cucumbers for diverse colors and flavors on the platter.
- → Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, omit deli meats and use vegetarian cheese to ensure the platter is fully vegetarian.
- → What dips pair well with these flavors?
Ranch with dill and pickle brine is classic, but spicy aioli or yogurt-based dill sauce also works well.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep fried pickles separate and refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat briefly to restore crispness.