These Easy Garlic Dill Cucumber Pickles are super fresh and full of flavor! They mix crisp cucumbers with tasty garlic and dill, giving you a perfect crunchy snack.
I love how simple they are to make—just slice, jar, and wait for the magic. You can enjoy them on sandwiches or straight from the jar. Just try not to eat them all at once! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Kirby cucumbers are great for pickles because they stay crisp. If unavailable, you can use slicing cucumbers, but be sure to pick firm ones. If you’re looking for lower sugar, try Persian cucumbers—they’re smaller and less seedy!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you prefer, use garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon per clove), but fresh is always my go-to for that punch!
Dill: Fresh dill brings a strong aroma, perfect for pickling. If it’s out of season or you need a quick swap, dried dill works too, but use only half as much as it’s more concentrated.
Vinegar: White or apple cider vinegar works well, giving a tangy taste. You can also use rice vinegar for a milder flavor, or even red wine vinegar for a little twist.
Olive Oil: This is optional, but it adds a nice richness to the pickles. You can skip it if watching your oil intake or if you want a lighter pickle.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Pickles?
To enhance the flavors in your pickles, the marination time is crucial. Allowing the cucumbers to sit for several hours—or even overnight—lets the flavors meld beautifully.
- Cut cucumbers into evenly-sized pieces for uniform pickling.
- Mix the garlic, dill, salt, and pepper thoroughly before adding the vinegar. This helps distribute flavors evenly.
- Let your mixture sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before refrigerating. This step helps them begin to absorb the garlic and dill flavors quickly.
- Store in the fridge in an airtight container. They’ll get better as they sit—so don’t rush them!
How to Make Easy Garlic Dill Cucumber Pickles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium cucumbers (Kirby or slicing variety)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill)
- 1 tsp salt (non-iodized is best for pickles)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional for flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, and you need to chill the pickles for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, let them sit for 4-6 hours or overnight. So, mark some time and let these pickles work their magic in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing the cucumbers well under cold water. Once clean, cut them into your desired shape—spears for a chunky bite or thin rounds for a classic pickle. Get them ready for deliciousness!
2. Mix the Seasonings:
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir it all together so the flavors mingle a bit. This is your flavor base!
3. Combine with Cucumbers:
Add the cucumber slices to the bowl with the garlic-dill mixture. Gently toss everything together to make sure each cucumber piece is well-coated in that yummy mix.
4. Add Liquids & Stir:
Pour in the vinegar and olive oil (if you’re using it), then give it a good mix once more to combine all the flavors. Every cucumber needs a little love from the dressing!
5. Let Them Chill:
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow the pickles to sit for at least 1 hour to pickle up. For maximum flavor, let them rest overnight. Your patience will be rewarded!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re nicely chilled, grab a fork and enjoy these delightful pickles! They make a great side for sandwiches or a refreshing snack. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within 3-4 days.
Bon appétit! Enjoy your crisp and flavorful garlic dill cucumber pickles!
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! Kirby cucumbers are ideal for pickling due to their crispness, but you can also use slicing cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. Just ensure they’re firm and fresh for the best texture.
How Long Do These Pickles Last in the Fridge?
Your garlic dill cucumber pickles will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They taste best when consumed within that time frame, but they may continue to pickle and develop flavor if left a bit longer.
Can I Adjust the Seasonings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the garlic and dill amounts to your taste preferences. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a teaspoon of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweeter pickle!
Is it Necessary to Let Them Sit Overnight?
While you can enjoy them after just 1 hour in the fridge, allowing them to sit for 4-6 hours or overnight enhances the flavors as they soak into the cucumbers. For the best taste, I recommend the longer marination!
