Pin it A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickle-wrapped bites. This meal is perfect for true pickle enthusiasts who crave bold flavors and snappy textures at the table.
I first tried making this pickle-lover's platter for a Friday night get-together, and the crispy fried pickles disappeared almost immediately. It's a guaranteed hit whenever friends with a craving for tangy snacks visit.
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. 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 chopped fresh dill until well combined. Serve alongside the platter.
Pin it This recipe quickly became a family favorite at weekend game nights. Everyone enjoys creating their own bite, experimenting with the array of pickled veggies and dipping into the tangy sauce.
Required Tools
Shallow bowls, mixing bowls, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, serving platter.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 22 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 17 g per serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty bread or chips, and enjoy with a crisp lager or dry Riesling for extra refreshment.
Pin it This pickle lover's meal is ready in under an hour and will impress any guest. Enjoy every tangy, crunchy bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the purpose of buttermilk in the fried pickle process?
Buttermilk tenderizes the pickles and helps the flour-cornmeal coating adhere, creating a crisp exterior.
- → How can I make this meal vegan?
Use plant-based cheese, deli slices, and a vegan dressing for dipping to create a completely vegan spread.
- → Can I use other types of pickles?
Absolutely; any variety such as bread and butter, spicy, or garlic pickles will work for varied flavor profiles.
- → What dipping sauce goes best with the platter?
The ranch dressing mixed with pickle brine and fresh dill complements the tangy and crunchy elements perfectly.
- → How do I achieve extra spiciness?
Add pickled jalapeños to the platter or incorporate hot sauce into your dipping sauce for a fiery kick.
- → What are suggested beverage pairings?
A crisp lager or dry Riesling balances the tang and richness of the meal beautifully.