Refrigerator Pickles

These quick and easy refrigerator pickles are crisp, tangy, and packed with flavor. Unlike traditional canned pickles, they require no heat processing and are ready to enjoy within 24–48 hours. Perfect for cucumbers, carrots, radishes, or peppers, you can customize them with herbs and spices to suit your taste.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 5

Total Time 20

Servings: 4

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 15

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the pickles:
4 –5 small cucumbers or 2 cups mixed vegetables, sliced
2 cups water
1 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon salt
3 –4 garlic cloves peeled
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
Fresh dill sprigs optional
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
Measuring cups and spoons
Saucepan
Clean glass jars with lids
Cutting board

Method

Prepare the vegetables: Wash and slice cucumbers or other vegetables into your desired shape (slices, spears, or coins).
Make the brine: In a small saucepan, combine water, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer until sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Add spices: Place garlic, peppercorns, mustard seeds, dill, and red pepper flakes at the bottom of clean glass jars.
Pack the vegetables: Pack the sliced vegetables tightly into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
Pour the brine: Pour the warm (not boiling) brine over the vegetables, making sure they are fully submerged.
Seal and cool: Seal the jars with lids and allow them to cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate: Place the jars in the refrigerator. The pickles are usually ready to eat in 24–48 hours.

Notes

For maximum crunch, use fresh, firm vegetables.
Adjust sugar and salt to taste.
Use clean utensils when removing pickles from the jar to avoid contamination.
Pickles can last up to 2–3 months in the refrigerator, though they’re best within the first few weeks.
Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique flavors, like thyme, oregano, or ginger.