Here’s a formula for quick refrigerator pickles that you will love — no need for traditional canning methods and equipment! I like to have these in the fridge as often as possible, as a crunchy, nearly calorie-free snack. They're also great served alongside veggie burgers, sandwiches, and wraps. Don't just limit yourself to cucumbers! This works with other veggies, as suggested following the recipe. Photos by Evan Atlas.
Makes 1 quart
- 2 medium unwaxed (and preferably organic) cucumbers
(or 5 large kirby cucumbers or several small Persian cucumbers - 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 tablespoons natural granulated sugar (or ¼ teaspoon stevia powder;
or 6 to 8 drops liquid stevia) - 1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dill seed, ½ teaspoon dried dill, 1 head of dill that's gone to flower,
or 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill - 1 teaspoon black or white whole peppercorns, optional
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (preferably fermented organic ACV, such as Bragg)
If using regular cucumbers, cut into quarters lengthwise, then cut each quarter in half. Then cut in half crosswise to shorten the spears. If using large Kirby cukes, cut into quarters lengthwise. If using smaller Kirbys, cut them in half lengthwise. Or, if they're really small, like Persians, leave them whole. Basically you need enough to pack into a quart jar, and this will vary according to size.
Combine the salt and sugar or stevia in a cup of hot water and stir until dissolved. Pour into a quart jar, then stir in the garlic, dill seed, optional peppercorns, and vinegar.
Pack the cut cucumbers into the jar, then fill to almost the top with water so that the cucumbers are completely covered.
Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for several hours. These are usually ready in 24 hours. 48 hours is better, but I usually can’t wait that long!
You can use the same liquid for another batch of cucumbers, though they will be a bit milder. Tailor the flavors when making your next batch — add more or less salt, sugar, garlic, and vinegar to your liking.
Variations: Try pickling blanched asparagus spears and barely wilted mushrooms (medium caps, cleaned and stemmed, work best). Raw radishes (halved or quartered), carrot slices or spears (or whole baby carrots), very small cauliflower florets, and thinly sliced zucchini are other veggies that pickle well.
- Explore VegKitchen’s selection of flavorful snacks and dips.
- Here are more canning and preserving recipes on VegKitchen.
Kristin says
What would be an alternative to the Apple Cider Vinegar? My kids are allergic to apples.
Thank You,
Kristin
Nava says
Kristin, any kind of mild white vinegar, like rice vinegar or white wine vinegar would be good as well (just not distilled white vinegar, it's a bit too acidic).
Somer says
These are marinating in the fridge right now. Can't wait til they're ready!
Nava says
Hope you enjoy these, Somer —let us know!
Sharon says
I substituted a tiny amount of stevia for the sugar and they were great!
Nava says
What a great idea, Sharon. I use liquid stevia all the time for making lemonade, so I wonder why I never thought of that! I love learning from readers ...
Mae says
How long will they last in the fridge???
Nava says
Mae, these last at least a week, maybe two — though they're usually devoured very quickly!
Annie says
I love the other vegetables ideas. Can you mix them in a quick pickling such as this?
Nava says
Absolutely
Trena Danbrook says
Thanks for this quick and easy recipe... I have so many cucumbers this year in my garden...so excited by this.. just made my 1st batch... can't wait to try them tomorrow.Cheers!!
Christine says
I do a lot of canning, and this is by far the BEST recipe for quick pickles. It is my go-to. Just made 2 batches of baby cuke pickles. I like to wait 2 days before eating them, trust me it's worth it. Thanks for this great recipe!
It's a keeper for me!
Nava says
Hi Christine — so glad you enjoy this! I always forget to make it in the winter, but I should — even though cukes are more expensive. Such a good way to prepare them.
Nicole Torrez says
Have you ever tried with sliced cucumbers? Any adjustments?
Nava says
Nicole, this works fine with sliced cucumber. They just need to be immersed in the liquid. After the first batch, adjust your next batch to your taste if you'd like any of the flavors — vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic — more pronounced.