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Air-Fried Pickle Sandwich 

If you’re craving a sandwich that’s crispy, tangy, and satisfying, this Air-Fried Pickle Sandwich delivers. Long dill pickles get dredged, battered, and coated in crunchy breadcrumbs before a quick spin in the air fryer for that perfect golden crust—no deep frying needed. Layered on toasted sourdough with a zesty garlic aioli, melty vegan cheese, peppery arugula, and bright hits of lemon and sun-dried tomato, every bite brings a mix of texture and bold flavor.

It’s fully plant-based, easy to prep, and ready in about 30 minutes—ideal for weeknights, weekend cravings, or whenever you want something fun and comforting. With the combo of crispy pickles and creamy sauces, this sandwich is absolute satiating comfort. Pro-tip, you can just make the pickles by themselves and dip in your favorite sauce or my garlic aioli recipe too!

Courses ,
Time
Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 15 mins Total Time: 30 mins
Servings 2
Description

Makes ~2 sandwiches in less than 30 mins
Fully Plant-Based & Dairy-Free!

Ingredients
    Crispy Fried Pickles
  • 4 Long Sliced Dill Pickles
  • Breading Station
    Bowl 1:
  • 1/2 Cup All-Purpose Flour (For dry dredge)
  • Bowl 2:
  • 1 Cup All Purpose Flour
  • 1/2 Tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 Tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 Tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 Cup Cold Water
  • Pinch Salt
  • Pinch Ground Black Pepper
  • Bowl 3:
  • 1.5 Cup Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs (Or regular)
  • Garlic Aioli
  • 1/2 Cup Vegan Mayo
  • 2 Tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 1 Tsp Dried Basil
  • Salt (To taste)
  • Ground Black Pepper (To taste)
  • Sandwich Assembly
  • 4 Slices Sour Dough Bread
  • 4 Sliced Vegan Cheese (Slightly melted)
  • 1/2 Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes
  • 2 Handfuls Arugula
  • 1/2 Lemon
Instructions
  1. Pickles & Batter

    Pat the pickle spears completely dry with paper towels
    Prepare bowl 2, whisk flour and spices
    Gradually add 1 cup cold water while whisking into a smooth batter

  2. Set Up Breading Station

    Prepare 3 bowls
    Dredge each pickle slice in plain flour
    Then dip fully into the batter
    Then coat thoroughly in breadcrumbs

  3. Air-Fry The Pickles

    Preheat air fryer to 400°F

    Place pickles in a single layer in the air fryer basket (spray lightly with oil).
    Air-fry for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

  4. Make Garlic Aioli

    Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl
    Whisk until smooth

  5. Assemble Sandwiches

    Toast sourdough bread until golden
    Spread garlic aioli on all 4 slices
    On 2 slices, layer arugula
    Add a squeeze of fresh lemon
    Add crispy fried pickles
    Add vegan heated vegan cheese
    Add sun-dried tomatoes
    Top with remaining toast slices
    Press gently and slice

Thank you for printing this recipe, I know you're going to love it!

Your foodie friend,

Roma B @itsromab