Save to Pinterest A tangy, crunchy feast featuring crispy fried pickles, a variety of pickled vegetables, and a playful twist with pickled-wrapped bites (perfect for true pickle enthusiasts). This Pickle Lovers Meal brings together your favorite briny flavors for a wholly satisfying vegetarian main dish.
I've always loved how a platter of pickles turns any gathering into a celebration. When I first made this meal, it disappeared faster than expected (even among skeptics), so now it's a regular request at my house.
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 (optional): 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Vegetable oil: for frying
- Large dill pickle spears: 8
- Swiss or cheddar cheese: 8 slices
- Deli turkey or ham (optional): 8 slices, omit for vegetarian
- Pickled carrots: 1 cup
- Pickled onions: 1 cup
- Pickled green beans: 1 cup
- Pickled jalapeños: 1 cup
- Pickled cauliflower or favorite pickled vegetables: 1 cup
- Ranch dressing: 1/2 cup
- Pickle brine: 2 tbsp
- Chopped fresh dill: 1 tbsp
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 When my family gathers for game night, everyone gets excited for the Pickle Platter debut. The fried pickles never last long, and even the kids compete for the best bite!
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 platter is guaranteed to delight your guests and spark plenty of snack-time conversation. Try pairing with crusty bread or chips for an even heartier feast.
Answers to Recipe Questions
- → How do I make fried pickles crispy?
Pat pickles dry before coating and fry in hot oil at 350°F (175°C) for best crunchiness.
- → Can I use vegan cheese for pickle-wrapped bites?
Yes, substitute with your favorite plant-based cheese and deli slices for a vegan-friendly version.
- → Which pickled vegetables work best for the platter?
Pickled carrots, green beans, jalapeños, onions, and cauliflower add vibrant color and zesty flavor.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well with pickled foods?
A mix of ranch dressing, pickle brine, and fresh dill offers a creamy, tangy dip to complement flavors.
- → Are there serving suggestions for a heartier meal?
Serve with crusty bread, chips, or pair with crisp lager or dry Riesling for extra substance.
- → How do I adjust for spiciness?
Add pickled jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.