Crispy Air-Fried Pickle Spears with Herbed Ranch Dip
If you're a fan of crunchy snacks with a tangy twist, then this recipe for Crispy Air-Fried Pickle Spears with Herbed Ranch Dip is a game-changer that you won’t want to miss. It brings together the intriguing flavors of dill pickles with a crispy coating that’s seasoned to perfection. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a game day snack, or just a fun side dish, these delightful pickle spears won't last long once they're out of the air fryer.
Getting the perfect crunch lies in choosing the right pickles and balancing your coating ingredients. Opt for Claussen Kosher Dill Pickle Spears—they provide the perfect balance of spice and crunch. Cornstarch, buttermilk, and bread crumbs combine seamlessly to create a coating that's both light and crisp. Infusing everything seasoning into your coating ingredients elevates this snack into something truly special.
Preparation is key to nailing this recipe. Drain your pickles thoroughly and reserve a bit of that pickle juice to add a refreshing tang to the dipping sauce. While the air fryer preheats, it’s the perfect time to set up your dipping stations. Use separate dishes to create an efficient assembly line: cornstarch and seasoning in one, buttermilk in another, and the bread crumb mixture in the last. Trust me, getting organized will make the process buttery smooth.
An air fryer is a must-have tool here. It achieves that crave-worthy crispiness without the extra oil and mess of traditional frying. Spread the pickles in a single layer to ensure even cooking. And don't forget—every air fryer is unique, so keep an eye on your pickles and adjust cook times if necessary!
Ingredients:
- 12 Claussen Kosher Dill Pickle Spears (about 16 oz): The main ingredient, adding a savory and tangy taste that’s irresistible.
- 1 cup cornstarch: Helps the batter adhere to the pickles, creating the perfect crispy texture.
- 3 teaspoons everything seasoning, divided: Infuses a rich blend of savory spices into every bite.
- 1 cup Marburger Farm Dairy Gourmet Buttermilk, divided: Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance flavors.
- 2 cups plain bread crumbs: The main component of the coating that turns perfectly golden in the air fryer.
- ¼ cup canola oil: Provides just enough moisture to aid in crisping up the bread crumbs.
- 0.75 oz fresh dill: Elevates the flavor profile of the dipping sauce with its herbaceous notes.
- 5 green onions: Adds a fresh and mild burst of onion flavor.
- ¾ cup ranch dressing: The base for a delightful herbed dip that complements the pickles.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer: Set it to 400°F to ensure it’s ready once your pickles are prepared.
- Prepare the pickles: Drain your pickle spears well. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pickle juice for the dipping sauce.
- Set up your coating stations: In a shallow dish, combine cornstarch with 1 teaspoon of everything seasoning. Fill another dish with ¾ cup buttermilk. The third dish will hold your bread crumbs mixed with the remaining 2 teaspoons of everything seasoning.
- Coat the pickle spears: First, roll each pickle in the cornstarch mixture. Next, dip it into the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat the pickle in the seasoned bread crumbs and place them on a plate while you work through the rest.
- Prepare for air frying: Drizzle the breaded pickles lightly with canola oil to enhance browning and crispness.
- Cook in the air fryer: Arrange the pickles in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spaced about ½ inch apart. You may need to work in batches. Cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are golden and crisp.
- Make the dipping sauce: While the pickles are cooking, chop fresh dill coarsely and slice green onions thinly. In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, remaining ¼ cup buttermilk, dill, green onions, and reserved pickle juice.
- Serve: Present your crispy pickle spears with the herbed ranch dip on the side and enjoy!
Tips for Troubleshooting:
- Too thick coating? Ensure the pickles are drained thoroughly before coating to prevent a soggy crust.
- Not crispy enough? Increase the temperature slightly or lengthen cook times, checking frequently. Every air fryer may vary.
- Uneven browning? Make sure pickles are spaced evenly apart in the air fryer to allow air circulation.
- Dipping sauce too runny? Add a touch more ranch dressing until the desired consistency is achieved.
Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe:
To complement these crispy pickle spears, here are some pairing suggestions to tantalize your taste buds:
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside a spicy coleslaw or a crisp garden salad, adding freshness and a contrasting crunch.
- Drinks: Pair with a refreshing light beer or a tangy lemonade to balance the pickle flavor.
- Desserts: Follow up with a cooling cucumber sorbet or a slice of lemon tart to cleanse the palate.
How to Store Properly:
- For refrigeration: Place leftover cooked pickles in an airtight container and consume within 2–3 days for optimal freshness.
- For freezing: Frozen pickles won't retain their crunch post-reheating, so it's not recommended. However, if necessary, flash-freeze coated pickles before cooking on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed container. Bake from frozen at 425°F for 15–20 minutes.
FAQs:
Can I use different pickles for this recipe? While Claussen pickles are ideal for their crunch and flavor, other dill pickles will work. Experiment with variations to see which you prefer.
Is it possible to bake these in the oven instead? Yes, bake at 425°F on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make these pickles gluten-free? Substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your everything seasoning is gluten-free as well.
What if I don't have an air fryer? A convection oven can be used as an alternative by adjusting the time as needed, but the result may not be quite as crispy.
