Save to Pinterest A tangy, crunchy feast packed with crispy fried pickles, pickled vegetables, and playful pickle-wrapped bites, the Pickle Lovers Meal is the ultimate tribute for true pickle enthusiasts to enjoy vibrant flavors and fun textures.
I first made this for a pickle-loving friend—the platter disappeared in minutes, with everyone asking for the recipe and sharing their favorite pickle stories.
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 or other vegetables: 1 cup
- 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 to Pinterest My family loves gathering around this pickle-packed platter during summer picnics—it's now a tradition for every outdoor get-together!
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 (per serving)
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 17 g
Save to Pinterest This pickle feast brings a burst of tang and crunch to your table—it will quickly become a conversation starter at any gathering!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this meal vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit deli meats and choose plant-based cheese for a vegetarian or vegan option.
- → What pickled vegetables work best?
Carrots, onions, green beans, jalapeños, and cauliflower all taste great, but feel free to use your favorites.
- → How do I get fried pickles extra crispy?
Pat pickles dry before breading and use enough oil; fry at 350°F for best texture and color.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well?
A ranch dressing blended with pickle brine and fresh dill creates a tangy, herbed complement.
- → Can I prepare components ahead?
You can make pickled vegetables and dipping sauce in advance. Fry pickles just before serving for crunch.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free flour and cornmeal to make the fried pickles suitable for gluten sensitivity.