Garlic Dill Pickles (a.k.a. The Snack That Doubles as a Gift)
Ingredients
- 2 pounds small cucumbers (Kirby or Persian work best)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a softer flavor)
- 1 1/2 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, sliced
- 2 tsp mustard seeds
- 2 tsp peppercorns
- 4–6 sprigs fresh dill
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Method
Prep the cucumbers.
- Wash cucumbers and trim the ends. Slice them into spears or rounds — or keep them whole for extra crunch.
Make the brine.
- In a small saucepan, combine water, vinegar, salt, and sugar. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Pack the jars.
- Divide garlic, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and dill evenly among your jars. Add cucumbers, packing them snugly but not too tight.
Pour the brine.
- Pour the warm brine into each jar until the cucumbers are completely covered. Tap the jars gently to release any air bubbles, then seal tightly with lids.
Chill and wait.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before eating. The flavor gets better after 2–3 days and keeps up to 1 month in the fridge.
Notes
Helpful Tips
- Mix it up: Add sliced jalapeños, thin red onions, or a few cloves of roasted garlic for variation.
- Gift-ready: Tie a ribbon and tag on the jar — it’s the perfect thoughtful, edible gift. Makes for a great teacher gift!
- Kid-friendly snack: Serve with cheese cubes or turkey roll-ups for a quick lunchbox bite.
- Zero waste: Use leftover brine for salad dressings or quick-pickled onions.