Capsaicin Free Quick Classic Pickles
Crunchy, garlicky, and bright with vinegar, these refrigerator pickles are the kind of snack you'll find yourself reaching for straight out of the jar. For anyone avoiding capsaicin, the good news is that the red pepper flakes listed here are completely optional — simply leave them out and every other ingredient is naturally free of that heat compound. The brine is built from pantry staples: white vinegar, kosher salt, a touch of sugar, and water, so there's no guesswork about hidden spicy additives. Black peppercorns and mustard seeds deliver plenty of bold, complex flavor without any burn, and fresh dill ties everything together with that classic pickle-shop aroma. Persian and Kirby cucumbers are ideal here because they stay remarkably crisp even after soaking in the brine, giving you that satisfying crunch in every bite. The process is genuinely quick — a few minutes on the stovetop to dissolve the brine, then into the fridge — and within an hour you have tangy, snappy pickles ready to pile onto sandwiches or serve alongside whatever's on the table.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 1 ½ lbs persian or kirby cucumbers (about 4–5 medium)
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Can be omittedred pepper flakes
- 4 sprigs fresh dill
Instructions
- 1
Wash and dry the cucumbers, then slice into 1/4-inch rounds or cut lengthwise into spears. Divide the cucumber slices, garlic, peppercorns, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), and dill sprigs evenly between two clean pint-sized mason jars, packing them in snugly.
- 2
Combine the vinegar, water, kosher salt, and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!