Pin A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickled-wrapped bites featuring cheese and deli meats: this Pickle Lovers Meal is perfect for true pickle enthusiasts seeking bold flavor in every bite.
I first made this meal for my family’s weekend game night, and the platter was empty in minutes: everyone loved the crispiness of the fried pickles and the fun combination of cheese, pickles, and deli slices. It’s become a go-to option for snacky dinners or quick entertaining with friends.
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, and 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 This meal is always a family favorite at our table, especially as kids and adults alike compete to grab the last fried pickle. Sharing stories and crunching away together makes this a memorable feast every time.
Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pickle Lovers Meal with crusty bread or chips for a more substantial feast, and try pairing with a crisp lager or dry Riesling for refreshing contrast.
Allergen & Nutritional Info
This recipe contains milk, wheat, and eggs, and may include soy depending on your cheese and deli options. Each serving provides roughly 420 calories, 22 g fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 17 g protein.
Prep & Storage
You can prepare the pickled vegetables and dipping sauce in advance. Fried pickles are best served hot, but leftovers can be crisped up in the oven or air fryer.
Pin Ready to impress every pickle lover at your next meal? This platter guarantees a delicious, crunchy experience for everyone.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do you ensure fried pickles stay crisp?
Drain and pat pickles dry, coat evenly in flour mixture, fry in hot oil, and drain on paper towels for extra crunch.
- → Can I make this meal vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based cheese and deli slices, ensuring all chosen ingredients are dairy and egg free.
- → What dipping sauce pairs best?
A ranch dressing mixed with pickle brine and fresh dill gives a tangy kick, or try adding hot sauce for heat.
- → Are there gluten-free alternatives?
Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal for frying, and check labels on cheese and deli slices for possible gluten.
- → What drinks complement this platter?
Pair with crisp lagers, dry Riesling, or sparkling water with citrus for a refreshing balance to the tangy flavors.
- → What other pickled veggies work well?
Try pickled carrots, onions, green beans, jalapeños, cauliflower, or any of your favorite tangy vegetables.