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 and anyone craving some fun textures at the table.
I invented this meal after discovering a pickle festival in my hometown and wanting to recreate that joyful variety at home. Making this for friends always sparks laughter and lively debates about the best pickle pairing!
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 This meal sparks giggles when my kids help roll the pickled bites and build their own mini platters. It is our go-to for movie nights and lazy weekends together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or chips for extra heartiness. Pair with a cold lager or chilled dry Riesling to balance the tangy flavors.
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). Always check labels when preparing for allergies.
Save Try this joyful pickle feast for your next gathering and watch everyone reach for seconds. It's sure to impress both pickle fans and skeptics with its crave-worthy flavor.
Recipe Guide
- → How do you keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain on paper towels immediately after frying and serve warm to retain crispiness.
- → Can I use another cheese for pickled-wrapped bites?
Yes, use any favorite melt-friendly cheese like gouda or pepper jack for different flavors.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well with pickled platters?
Ranch dressing mixed with pickle brine and fresh dill creates a creamy, tangy complement.
- → Is this platter suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
For vegetarians, omit deli meats. Use vegan cheese and plant-based slices for a fully vegan spread.
- → Can I make fried pickles ahead of time?
Fried pickles are best fresh. If preparing ahead, reheat in the oven for extra crispiness.
- → Which vegetables work well for pickling?
Try carrots, cauliflower, green beans, onions, jalapeños, and other favorites like radishes or cucumbers.