Shellfish Free Refrigerator Pickles

Total time4 hr 20 min

Prep time15 min

Cook time5 min

4.6

(16)

Crisp, tangy, and loaded with fresh dill and scallion, these refrigerator pickles are the kind of condiment that makes everything on the plate taste better. A quick salt-and-drain step pulls excess moisture from the cucumber slices first, which is the secret to keeping that satisfying snap even after they've been sitting in brine. The pickling liquid itself is a simple combination of apple cider vinegar, water, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and a touch of maple syrup for a subtle sweetness that balances the heat from the optional red pepper flakes. Everything here is straightforward produce and pantry staples — no processed shortcuts, no mystery ingredients, and absolutely nothing to raise a red flag for anyone avoiding shellfish. You just pack the jars, pour over the warm brine, and let the refrigerator do the rest of the work. They're ready in as little as four hours, genuinely great after a full day, and keep for up to two weeks — though they rarely last that long.

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Ingredients

8 servings

2 medium english cucumbers (about 1 ½ lb total), thinly sliced
1 tsp kosher salt

For the brine

1 cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup water
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp mustard seeds
½ tsp black peppercorns
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the jars

4 sprigs fresh dill
4 scallion green tops, cut into 2-inch pieces

Instructions

1
Toss the cucumber slices with 1 tsp kosher salt in a colander set over the sink. Let them stand for 10 minutes, then rinse briefly under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel. This draws out excess moisture so the brine stays clear and the slices stay crisp.
2
Combine the apple cider vinegar, water, maple syrup, 1 tsp kosher salt, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the salt and maple syrup are fully dissolved, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let the brine cool for 5 minutes.

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