Fried dill pickle spears

Appetizer

Item Rating: 52/100

1 serving (85 grams) contains 150 calories, 2.0 grams of protein, 7.0 grams of fat, and 20.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (236.1g)

Calories		416.7
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		19.4 g	24%
	Saturated Fat	4.2 g	21%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		13.9 mg	4%
Sodium		3333.3 mg	144%
Total Carbohydrates		55.6 g	20%
	Dietary Fiber	2.8 g	10%
	Sugars	5.6 g
protein		5.6 g	11%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		55.6 mg	4%
Iron		1.4 mg	7%
Potassium		138.9 mg	2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

Fat: 174 cal (41.6%)

Protein: 22 cal (5.3%)

Carbs: 222 cal (53.0%)

About Fried dill pickle spears

Fried dill pickle spears are a popular appetizer originating in the Southern United States, merging the tanginess of dill pickles with the crispy, savory coating of a fried batter. Usually made with sliced dill pickles coated in seasoned flour, breadcrumbs, or cornmeal, and deep-fried until golden, this dish is a fusion of salty, sour, and crunchy textures. While fried dill pickle spears are a calorie-dense food due to the frying process, the pickles themselves are low in calories and high in sodium, providing minimal amounts of vitamins such as vitamin K from cucumbers. The breading and oil contribute significantly to the fat and carbohydrate content, making this snack more indulgent than nutritious.

Health Benefits

• Contains vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health, found in the dill pickles.
• Pickles provide probiotics, beneficial for gut health, though frying may reduce live cultures.
• Rich in dietary sodium, which supports muscle contraction and nerve function, but should be consumed in moderation.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (if breaded with wheat-based flour), egg (if egg wash is used), dairy (if dairy-based batter is used)

Suitable for: Lacto-ovo vegetarian (if no meat-based ingredients are used)

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets (unless using gf flour), vegan diets (if egg or dairy is used), low-sodium diets due to high pickle sodium content

Selection and Storage

Store fried dill pickle spears in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best crispness; avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

Common Questions About Fried dill pickle spears Nutrition

What is the nutritional content of fried dill pickle spears?

Fried dill pickle spears typically contain about 150-200 calories per serving (4-5 spears), depending on the batter and frying method. They are low in protein (approximately 2-3 grams per serving) and contain small amounts of vitamins like Vitamin K from the pickles. However, they are often high in sodium, with a single serving providing up to 800-1,000 mg due to the pickling process and added salt.

Are fried dill pickle spears suitable for a keto diet?

Fried dill pickle spears are generally not keto-friendly due to their batter, which is typically made with flour or breadcrumbs, making them high in carbs (15-20 grams per serving). However, you can make a keto version by using almond flour or pork rinds for the breading and frying them in a low-carb-friendly oil, such as avocado or coconut oil.

Are there any health concerns with eating fried dill pickle spears?

While fried dill pickle spears can be a tasty treat, they are high in sodium (due to the pickling process) and fat (from deep frying), which can contribute to high blood pressure and unhealthy weight gain if consumed in excess. Additionally, deep-fried foods may contain trans fats, which are linked to cardiovascular issues. Moderation is key to enjoying them as part of a balanced diet.

How many fried dill pickle spears should I eat in one serving?

A typical serving size is about 4-5 fried dill pickle spears. This portion provides approximately 150-200 calories, which is appropriate for a snack or appetizer. If pairing them with a dipping sauce, be mindful of the additional calories and sodium the sauce may add.

How do fried dill pickle spears compare to regular pickle spears?

Fried dill pickle spears are significantly higher in calories, fat, and carbohydrates due to the breading and frying process. For example, a plain pickle spear contains virtually no fat and around 5 calories, while a fried version has 150-200 calories and about 10-14 grams of fat per serving. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, plain pickle spears or oven-baked versions are healthier alternatives.

Data Sources & Scientific References