Citric Acid Free Quick Pickled Cucumbers
Crisp, garlicky, and fragrant with fresh dill, these quick pickled cucumbers deliver that bright, tangy punch you crave without relying on citric acid as a preservative or flavor booster. Most store-bought pickles and even many homemade brine recipes sneak in citric acid as a preservative or flavor booster, which can be a real problem if you're sensitive to it. Here, apple cider vinegar does all the heavy lifting — it's a naturally fermented acid that gives the brine its zing while keeping the ingredient list clean and straightforward. A touch of honey rounds out the sharpness beautifully, and the optional turmeric adds a warm, golden hue that makes the jar look as good as it tastes. Salting the cucumbers first draws out excess moisture so every slice stays satisfyingly crunchy rather than going limp in the jar. The whole process is genuinely quick — a short simmer, a simple pack-and-pour, and a rest in the fridge is all it takes before you're snacking straight from the jar.
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
4 servings
- 2 medium english cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
For the brine
- ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 3 sprigs fresh dill
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Toss the cucumber slices with 1 tsp fine sea salt in a colander set over the sink. Let stand for 10 minutes, then rinse briefly under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel.
- 2
Combine the apple cider vinegar, water, honey, and 1/2 tsp fine sea salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the honey dissolves and the brine just comes to a simmer, about 3–4 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!