If you’re as obsessed with dill pickles as we are, you probably know that their tangy, salty, and slightly sweet flavor is nothing short of addictive. But did you know pickles can go beyond a simple sandwich topping or crunchy side? That’s right—you can infuse pickle goodness into every meal of the day.
Whether you’re team dill, bread-and-butter, or spicy spears, here are 15 creative and delicious ways to make pickles the star of your meals from breakfast to dessert (yes, really!).
Breakfast
1. Pickle Brine Bloody Mary
Start your day with a twist on a brunch classic. Use pickle brine instead of plain saltwater in your Bloody Mary mix for a tangy, savory kick. Garnish with pickle spears, pickled okra, or even pickled asparagus for extra pickle pizzazz.
2. Pickle Bagel Spread
Mix cream cheese with finely diced dill pickles, a dash of pickle juice, and fresh dill. Spread it over your morning bagel and thank us later. In no time, you’ll have pickles at every meal.
3. Pickle-Infused Scrambled Eggs
Add chopped dill pickles and a splash of pickle juice to your scrambled eggs for a zesty flavor upgrade. Top with shredded cheese and fresh dill for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Lunch
4. Pickle-Packed Grilled Cheese
Elevate your classic grilled cheese by layering thin slices of pickles between the cheese and bread. The tangy crunch pairs perfectly with gooey, melty cheese.
5. Pickle Chicken Salad – Easy Pickle At Every Meal Option
Transform your chicken salad by adding chopped pickles and a spoonful of pickle juice. It’s a game-changer for your lunchtime sandwich or wrap.
6. Pickle Soup
Yes, pickle soup is a thing, and it’s divine. This Polish-inspired dish combines potatoes, carrots, and a generous amount of chopped dill pickles in a creamy broth. Serve it with crusty bread for a comforting lunch.
Snacks (Yes, We Meant Pickles At Every Meal!)
7. Pickle Popcorn
Drizzle popcorn with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle on some pickle seasoning (you can find it online or make your own with dried dill, garlic powder, and citric acid). It’s the ultimate movie-night snack.
8. Pickle Deviled Eggs
Add pickle juice and finely chopped pickles to your deviled egg filling for a tangy twist on this classic appetizer. Garnish with a tiny pickle slice or sprinkle of dill.
9. Pickle Chips
Swap out your regular chips for fried pickle slices. Dip them in ranch dressing or spicy aioli for an irresistible snack that’s crunchy, tangy, and satisfying.
Dinner
10. Pickle Pasta Salad
Toss cooked pasta with a dressing made from mayonnaise, pickle juice, and mustard. Add chopped pickles, diced red onions, and fresh dill for a tangy side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or fish.
11. Pickle-Topped Burgers
Sure, a slice of pickle is a standard burger topping, but why stop there? Add pickled onions, spicy pickles, or even a layer of pickle slaw to your burger for maximum pickle at every meal impact.
12. Pickle-Brined Chicken
Marinate chicken in pickle brine for a few hours before grilling or frying. The brine tenderizes the meat and adds a punch of flavor. It’s the secret behind some of the best fried chicken out there.
Pickles At Every Meal Includes… Dessert!
13. Pickle Popsicles
Mix pickle juice with a little sugar and freeze it into popsicle molds. These icy treats are great for a hot day and surprisingly addictive.
14. Pickle Ice Cream
Don’t knock it until you try it! Sweet and tangy pickle ice cream is surprisingly refreshing. It’s perfect for adventurous foodies looking for a unique dessert experience.
15. Pickle Chocolate Bark
For an unexpected flavor combination, try dark chocolate bark studded with chopped candied pickles and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. It’s salty, sweet, and delightfully weird—in the best way possible.
Bonus Ideas
If you’re not ready to commit to pickles in dessert but want more ways to incorporate them into your daily life, try these ideas:
- Pickle Juice Cocktails: Add a splash of pickle juice to cocktails like margaritas or martinis for an unexpected zing.
- Pickle Butter: Blend softened butter with finely chopped pickles and a bit of pickle juice. Spread it on warm bread or use it to top grilled vegetables.
- Pickle Pizza: Swap out traditional toppings for a dill pickle pizza with garlic sauce, mozzarella cheese, and thinly sliced pickles.
Pickles at Every Meal? Consider It Done
With these 15 (and bonus!) ideas, your love for pickles can shine in every meal. From tangy breakfasts to surprising desserts, there’s a pickle dish for every craving. Let the pickle obsession live on!