Refrigerator Pickles with Garlic and Basil

Indulge in these refrigerator pickles that are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds! First, they are made with thin-sliced pickling cucumbers marinated in an apple cider vinegar-based brine. Additionally, they are seasoned with mustard seeds, turmeric for natural color, and a potent blend of garlic and basil to elevate the flavor. As a result, these pickles are not only sour and tart but also healthier than store-bought.

Additionally, they are low in calories and contain no artificial preservatives or additives. Moreover, the crisp texture of the cucumbers combined with the tangy and aromatic flavors make these homemade refrigerator pickles a perfect addition to sandwiches, salads, or enjoyed on their own as a refreshing snack. 

These pickles are marinating as I'm writing this post! EEKK!! I'm so excited!

I'll have you know that we're having burgers tonight and I will be placing these refrigerator pickles right after my melted cheese.

Ingredients

What I love about the ingredients that I used here is the apple cider vinegar and turmeric for an immune and gut boost. I love giving these to my kiddos. Who doesn't like snacking on a tart and crunchy pickle?

It's worth noting that apple cider vinegar and turmeric are the two most powerful components in these simple pickles. By snacking on these pickles throughout the week, you're doing your gut health and immunity a great service.

Needless to say, these are not pickled the traditional way. There's no cooking or a proper seal. These are to be kept in the fridge at all times.

How to Make Refrigerator Pickles

This quick brine has a balance of salt and sugar. The sugar will help cut the sharpness from the vinegar. The salt will reinforce that sour flavor we all love in a pickle.

Step 1: Slice 13 pickle cucumber, roughly 3 inches in length.

I prefer using a mandoline slicer to ensure even slices and efficiency.

Step 2: Make the brine.

Combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, turmeric, and garlic in a saucepan. Cook on low heat until the sugar and salt dissolve. Once the sugar and salt dissolve, remove the mixture from the heat and get ready to pour it into the jars.

Step 3: Sterilize the jars and add the cucumbers.

It's imperative to sterilize the jars by keeping them in a saucepan of boiling water until they are ready to be used. Next, fill the jars with as many sliced cucumbers as possible. Stop adding in the sliced cucumbers slightly before you've reached lid level. If feasible, make sure to position the basil stem with leaves on the edge of the jar to signify the presence of basil.

Step 4: Add the Brine.

Next, pour the brine into each jar until it reaches the lid point. Cover with a clean, unused lid or washable leak-proof lid and place immediately in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

How to Enjoy Refrigerator Pickles 

Enjoy refrigerator pickles by removing them from the fridge. Let them come to room temperature. This will enhance their flavors. Next, you can either eat them straight from the jar or incorporate them into your favorite dishes for added tanginess and crunch. Additionally, consider pairing refrigerator pickles with cheese or charcuterie for a delightful appetizer or snack. 

How Long Does Refrigerator Pickles Last?

Wisconsin Safe Food Preservation doesn't recommend storing these pickles in the fridge for no longer than 2 weeks.

The picture above shows the pickles after marinating for 24 hours. They are so sour yet still crunchy.

More Crave-Worthy Recipes to Try

Skirt Steak Marinade with Cider and Sage. This skirt steak marinade is a delicious blend of citrus, fresh sage, garlic, and apple cider vinegar, providing a rich, tangy, and savory flavor that enhances the steak’s natural taste.

Cider Roasted Chicken and Potatoes. This fall supper recipe features roasted chicken and potatoes with an apple cider-based rub, infused with spices like paprika, garlic, and oregano.