Save 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 created this meal after a family picnic where everyone brought their favorite homemade pickles. Combining fried pickles with wrapped pickle spears made it an instant hit and sparked lively debates about the best pickled vegetable!
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: 1/2 tsp (optional)
- 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: 8 slices (optional, omit for vegetarian)
- Pickled carrots: 1 cup
- Pickled onions: 1 cup
- Pickled green beans: 1 cup
- Pickled jalapeños: 1 cup
- Pickled cauliflower: 1 cup or any favorite pickled vegetables
- Ranch dressing: 1/2 cup
- Pickle brine: 2 tbsp
- Fresh dill: 1 tbsp, chopped
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 pickle platter brought my family together every summer, with kids helping to wrap spears and adults customizing their own dipping sauces.
Serving Suggestions
For a heartier spread, pair with crusty bread or potato chips, or serve as a snack board alongside a crisp lager or dry Riesling.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch dressing), wheat (flour), eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), and possible soy in deli meats and cheese. Check labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 17 g
Save Enjoy with friends and family for the ultimate pickled feast. Every crunchy bite is a celebration of bold, tangy flavors!
Recipe Questions
- → How do I get fried pickles extra crispy?
Pat pickles very dry before coating, and fry in hot oil at 350°F until golden. Drain on paper towels for best crunch.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, replace cheese and deli meats with vegan alternatives and ensure the dipping sauce is plant-based.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the breading?
Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for the coating to create a crispy, gluten-free version of the fried pickles.
- → What sides pair well with this platter?
Serve with crusty bread, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables for a complete, shareable meal experience.
- → Is there a spicy option available?
Include pickled jalapeños and add hot sauce to the dipping sauce for an extra kick in flavor and heat.
- → How long does it take to prepare the dish?
Total time is about 45 minutes, including preparation and frying. Assembly is quick and straightforward.
- → What's the best way to arrange the platter?
Group fried pickles, wrapped spears, and assorted vegetables artfully on a large serving platter for easy sharing.