Easy Refrigerator Pickles(Good For All Those Surplus Garden Cucumbers)
Crisp, tangy refrigerator pickles with vinegar, sugar, and spices, perfect for using surplus cucumbers and enjoyed straight from the fridge within a few months.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and seasoning. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar.
- Meanwhile, place one clove of garlic in each jar (1 quart); pack sliced cucumbers and onions into the jars.
- Pour the hot vinegar mixture into the jars over the vegetables.
- Use a funnel and soup ladle to fill the jars carefully.
- Replace the lids on the jars, then let them cool in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to blend.
- Store the pickles in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
- Share these homemade pickles with friends or enjoy them yourself!
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pickling mixture. If you don't have celery seed, dill seeds can be a great substitute. Make sure to pack the cucumbers tightly in the jars to maximize the crunch. Adjust the sugar to your taste if you prefer a less sweet pickle. This recipe is also a great way to use up those surplus garden cucumbers.
Serving Suggestions
These easy refrigerator pickles make a refreshing addition to sandwiches or burgers, enhancing any meal with their tangy crunch. Serve them as a side with grilled meats or alongside a cheese platter. They also pair beautifully with 7 Day Pickles for a varied pickle selection at your next gathering. Enjoy them as a snack or add them to salads for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the pickles in the refrigerator in tightly sealed jars. They will keep well for up to 3 months. Avoid storing them at room temperature, as this could lead to spoilage. For best flavor, consume within 2 months. They can be enjoyed straight from the jar without reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Refrigerator Pickles(Good For All Those Surplus Garden Cucumbers) contains roughly 382 calories, with 9g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (153% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 18g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do these pickles need to sit before they are ready to eat?
For the best flavor, allow the pickles to sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before consuming. This gives the cucumbers time to absorb the pickling solution and develop a balanced taste. The longer they sit, the more intense the flavor will become.
Can I use other vegetables besides cucumbers for pickling?
Absolutely! This pickling solution can be used for a variety of vegetables such as carrots, radishes, or even green beans. Just be mindful that different vegetables may have different pickling times, so adjust accordingly to achieve the desired crunch.
Is it possible to reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar to suit your taste preferences. Start by cutting it in half and taste the pickling solution before adding more. Keep in mind that sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps with preservation, so reducing it may affect shelf life.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).