Pin It A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickle-wrapped bites, perfect for true pickle enthusiasts.
I first discovered the joy of making pickles into a full meal at a family picnic. The combination of tang, crunch, and unexpected flavors delighted everyone at the table.
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 Pickle-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 Pickle Platter:
- Arrange fried pickles, pickle-wrapped bites, and assorted pickled vegetables on a serving platter.
- Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- Mix ranch dressing, pickle brine, and fresh dill in a bowl until combined. Serve alongside the platter.
Pin It Every holiday, our family gathers around this platter, each person claiming their favorite pickle creation. It’s a tradition that brings lots of laughter and crunchy snacking to our table.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls, mixing bowls, skillet, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, and a serving platter are essential to easily prepare and serve this meal.
Allergen Information
Contains milk, wheat, eggs, and possible soy. Always check ingredient packages if allergens are a concern for your guests.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 420 calories, 22 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, 17 g protein. Values may vary based on choices of cheese and deli meats.
Pin It Finish with fresh herbs for an attractive touch. Serve right away for ultimate crunch and flavor satisfaction.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I get pickles perfectly crispy when frying?
Make sure pickles are well drained and patted dry before coating. Use hot oil (350°F) and fry in small batches for best results.
- → Can I use different cheeses for pickle-wrapped bites?
Absolutely. Swiss, cheddar, or even vegan cheese slices work well depending on your preferences.
- → What kind of dipping sauce pairs best?
A creamy dill ranch with bright pickle brine is classic, but spicy aioli and yogurt-based dips are delicious alternatives.
- → Can this meal be made vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based cheese and deli slices, and ensure your dipping sauce is vegan-friendly.
- → What are good side dishes for this feast?
Crusty bread, kettle-cooked chips, and a simple green salad complement the tangy, crunchy flavors perfectly.
- → Is this meal suitable for gluten-free diets?
Swap all-purpose flour and cornmeal for gluten-free alternatives to adapt this meal for gluten-free diets.