Save 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.
I first made this platter for my friend's birthday pickle party and it was a huge hit: everyone loved mixing and matching the different pickled bites and sauces.
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 fresh dill until well combined. Serve alongside the platter.
Save This meal always gets everyone sharing stories about their favorite pickles: it's a hit at every family gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or chips for a more substantial meal and pair with crisp lager or dry Riesling for the perfect accompaniment.
Required Tools
You'll need shallow bowls, mixing bowls, a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, and a serving platter.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 420 calories, 22 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 17 g protein.
Save Try making a new dipping sauce each time for variety or add extra pickled veggies to customize your platter.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pickles work best for frying?
Dill pickle chips or spears are ideal for frying, as they hold their shape and offer a tangy kick.
- → Can I prepare the fried pickles ahead of time?
For maximum crunch, enjoy fried pickles fresh, but you can prep ingredients in advance and fry just before serving.
- → What cheese pairs well with pickle-wrapped bites?
Swiss and cheddar both complement tangy pickles, but you can use any firm cheese you prefer.
- → How do I keep fried pickles crispy?
Drain on paper towels after frying and serve immediately for best texture; avoid stacking to prevent steaming.
- → Is this meal vegan-friendly?
Swap dairy cheese and deli meat for plant-based alternatives to make the dish fully vegan.
- → What dipping sauce works well with pickled goodies?
Try ranch mixed with pickle brine and fresh dill for a cool, tangy dip alongside the platter.