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Fresh Garlic Dill Refrigerator Pickle Spears

fresh garlic dill refrigerator pickle spears - featured image

A quick and easy homemade pickle recipe featuring fresh garlic cloves and dill, perfect for a crunchy, tangy snack ready in just 24 hours.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium Kirby cucumbers, sliced into spears
  • 6 whole fresh garlic cloves, peeled
  • 1 large bunch fresh dill (about 45 sprigs)
  • 2 cups white vinegar (distilled or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 cups water (filtered if possible)
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt (Diamond Crystal recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash Kirby cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Trim off the blossom ends and cut each cucumber lengthwise into 4 spears (about 10 minutes).
  2. In a small saucepan, combine 2 cups white vinegar, 2 cups water, 2 tablespoons kosher salt, and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until salt and sugar dissolve. Remove from heat and let cool to warm.
  3. Place 2 whole peeled garlic cloves, a few sprigs of fresh dill, 1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns, and 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds into each quart-sized mason jar. Pack cucumber spears tightly on top, standing upright.
  4. Pour the warm brine over the cucumbers, covering them completely. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Use a clean utensil to press down and release air bubbles if needed.
  5. Seal jars tightly with lids and refrigerate. Let sit for at least 24 hours before tasting. Flavors will deepen over 2-3 days.

Notes

Use Kirby cucumbers for best firmness and small seeds. Trim blossom ends to prevent sogginess. Let brine cool to warm before pouring to keep cucumbers crisp. If cucumbers float, use a clean weight or parchment paper to keep them submerged. Store refrigerated and consume within 3 weeks for best flavor and crunch. To re-crisp softened spears, soak in ice water for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: pickle spears, refrigerator pickles, garlic dill pickles, quick pickles, homemade pickles, easy snack, crunchy pickles