Pin 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 still remember the first time I brought out a pickle platter for friends—it was an instant hit and everyone loved experimenting with the different pickled bites and sauces.
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
- 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.
Pin 
This meal is always part of our family game night, with everyone trying their favorite combinations and dipping everything into that tangy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Offer with crusty bread or potato chips to complete the meal, and pair with a refreshing drink such as a crisp lager or dry Riesling.
Allergen Information
Contains milk (cheese, buttermilk, ranch dressing), wheat (flour), eggs (may be present in ranch dressing), and possible soy (deli meats, cheese). Check labels if sensitive.
Required Tools
Have shallow bowls, mixing bowls, a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan, slotted spoon, paper towels, toothpicks, and a serving platter ready for easy preparation.
Pin Serve immediately so everything stays crisp and chilled. This is a guaranteed pickle party favorite for any occasion.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I make fried pickles crispier?
Ensure pickles are well-drained and patted dry before coating. Fry in hot oil and serve immediately for best crunch.
- → Can I make the pickled-wrapped bites vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit deli meats and use vegetarian or vegan cheese to keep the bites meat-free.
- → What other pickled vegetables work well?
Try pickled beets, asparagus, or radishes for more variety. Use your favorite pickled vegetables to suit your palate.
- → Which dipping sauces pair nicely?
Beyond ranch, consider spicy aioli, creamy blue cheese, or tangy mustard for added flavor options.
- → Can I prepare parts of this meal ahead of time?
Pickled vegetables and dipping sauce can be made ahead, but fry pickles just before serving for ideal texture.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Substitute plant-based cheese and deli slices, and use vegan ranch for the dipping sauce to suit vegan diets.