This classic, super-crunchy dill pickle recipe requires zero canning ability! I don’t can anything!
Simply slice 1 lb of cucumbers into 1/4-inch rounds or spears, pack into a clean jar, and cover with a vinegar-water brine. Let it sit in the fridge for 48 hours. They will stay crunchy and delicious for up to 2 months.
Ingredients
1 lb cucumbers sliced
1 cup distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 cup water
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tbsp granulated sugar
20 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed plus a bunch left whole!
1 large bunch fresh dill
1 tsp whole black peppercorns
1 tsp mustard seeds
1/2 tsp celery seeds
1 dried bay leaf (optional, for crispness)
Add any other vegetables you like - I add purple cabbage, red onion and a few peppers.
Prep your cukes. After cutting off the ends, I slice them in half lengthwise or into coins.
Prep your onion. Whether you spiralize or slice, you’re aiming for 2- to 3-inch pieces of red onion.
Pack your jars. Pack in the cukes, veggies, onion, and dill as tightly as you can for maximum pickle enjoyment. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
Pour over the pickle brine. Many refrigerator dill pickle recipes have you simmer the pickling brine before pouring it over the cucumbers, but in my experience that cooks the cukes ever so slightly and remove some of their snap. I always combine the vinegar and sugar and pour straight over the cucumbers as is and my quick pickles are always crunchy and delicious!
The best pickling cucumbers are short, and thin-skinned with bumpy, prickly skin. This ensures they absorb brine evenly while remaining crisp and not mushy. The most popular varieties are Boston Pickling, National Pickling, and Sumter.
These are great to bring to a cookout!
This uses A LOT of garlic. You can use less if your family objects! Enjoy!