Save A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickled-wrapped bites—a treat perfect for true pickle enthusiasts.
I first served this meal at a family game night and everyone was surprised by how much they loved the zesty flavors and crispy textures. It quickly became the most requested shareable snack!
Ingredients
- For the Fried Pickles: 2 cups dill pickle chips or spears, 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
- For the Pickled-Wrapped Bites: 8 large dill pickle spears
- Swiss or cheddar cheese: 8 slices
- Deli turkey or ham (optional, omit for vegetarian): 8 slices
- 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.
Pin it This meal brings everyone to the table—the kids love making their own pickled-wrapped bites and adults enjoy sharing stories over crunchy pickles. It always sparks plenty of smiles at our house.
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). If using deli meats, check for additional allergens. Always verify ingredient labels if concerned about allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 17 g (per serving)
Pin it For your next gathering, try this pickle lovers meal—it's fun, crunchy, and totally customizable. Pickles make everything a party!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you keep fried pickles crisp?
Drain the pickles and pat them dry before breading. Fry in hot oil and cool on paper towels for extra crunch.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based cheese and deli slices, and check the ranch dressing for dairy-free options to keep it vegan.
- → What other vegetables can be pickled for this meal?
Pickled carrots, onions, cauliflower, jalapeños, and green beans all work well. Choose your favorites for variety.
- → Is there a gluten-free version of this meal?
Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour blend and ensure cornmeal is certified gluten-free for a safe alternative.
- → What’s a good beverage pairing?
A crisp lager or dry Riesling complements the tang and crunch, balancing pickled flavors nicely.
- → Can I air fry the pickles instead of deep frying?
Yes. Arrange breaded pickles in a single layer in the air fryer and cook at 400°F until golden and crispy.