When you’re craving a crisp Dill Pickle Spears recipe steeped in fresh garlic and peppercorns, why not try making your own? These tangy, homemade spears are an ideal side dish for deli sandwiches or barbecue platters. A hot vinegar brine preserves their crunch while the herbs infuse over days in the fridge. Whip up a batch over the weekend to keep on hand for easy lunches and weeknight dinners.
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Ingredients for Dill Pickle Spears
For the brine
- Distilled white vinegar – The sharp acidity is essential for that classic pickle tang.
- Water – Just plain filtered water works perfectly here.
- Pickling salt – Don’t substitute table salt; pickling salt dissolves cleanly and enhances the flavor without clouding the brine.
For the pickles
- Pickling cucumbers – Look for firm, fresh ones; they’ll stay crisp and perfect after brining.
- Garlic – Smashed and peeled cloves infuse the brine with a savory depth.
- Black peppercorns – These add a subtle warmth and complexity to the mix.
- Dill seeds – They bring an earthy, slightly citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh dill.
- Fresh dill – A big bunch is key for that bright, herby punch we all love in dill pickles.
Cook Time for Easy Dill Pickle Spears
Making these Dill Pickle Spears is wonderfully straightforward, allowing you to achieve that perfect homemade crunch. I love how a quick project on a Sunday afternoon can fill my fridge with delicious pickles for the whole week. For more inspiration on simple, fresh recipes, take a peek at my vibrant Korean cucumber salad.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
How to Make Crisp Dill Pickle Spears
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash 4 pounds of pickling cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water, scrubbing gently with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt. Slice each cucumber lengthwise into quarters to create uniform spears, ensuring clean, even cuts for the perfect crisp dill pickle spears.
Step 2: Create the Brine
Combine 3 cups of distilled white vinegar, 3 cups of water, and 6 tablespoons of pickling salt in a large stainless steel pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally until the salt dissolves completely, creating a clear brine solution for our no-cook pickled cucumbers with dill seed.
Step 3: Pack the Jars
Distribute 8 peeled and smashed garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of black peppercorns, 2 tablespoons of dill seeds, and 1 large bunch of fresh dill evenly between 2 clean quart-sized mason jars. Tightly pack the cucumber spears vertically into each jar, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top for proper sealing and flavor infusion.
Step 4: Pour and Seal
Carefully ladle the hot brine into each jar, using a measuring cup to ensure accuracy. Pour until the cucumber spears are fully submerged and the brine reaches 1/2 inch below the jar rim, which is key for creating those crunchy spears with peppercorns and vinegar we all love.
Step 5: Cool and Seal
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean damp cloth to remove any brine or residue. Seal the jars tightly with their lids and allow them to cool to room temperature for approximately 2 hours, until the lids pop inward and become concave, indicating a proper seal for your homemade dill pickle spears.
Step 6: Patience is a Virtue!
Refrigerate the sealed jars for at least 72 hours before opening. This resting period allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in crisp, tangy pickle spears with balanced notes of dill and garlic. Trust me, the wait is worth it for these tangy fermented cucumber spears!
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make these Dill Pickle Spears even better. For instance, if you’re looking for more ways to preserve summer’s bounty, my guide on canning recipes for beginners is a great next step.
- Flavor Swap: Try adding a teaspoon of mustard seeds or a couple of dried chili peppers to the jar for a different kind of kick. This creates a fantastic variation on your standard crisp homemade spears with fresh dill.
- Diet Tweak: For a lower-sodium version, you can reduce the pickling salt by a tablespoon. The flavor will be slightly less intense but still wonderfully tangy.
- Prep Fix: To guarantee the crunchiest pickles, make sure your cucumbers are super fresh. I always look for ones that feel firm and heavy for their size, with no soft spots.
- Storage Tip: These pickles will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to two months. They’re a perfect make-ahead item for parties or a delicious add-in for healthy soup recipes that need a bright, acidic note.
Dill Pickle Spears
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pickling cucumbers
- 3 cups distilled white vinegar
- 3 cups water
- 6 tablespoons pickling salt
- 8 cloves garlic peeled and smashed
- 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons dill seeds
- 1 large bunch fresh dill
Method
- Thoroughly wash the cucumbers under cold running water and scrub gently with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt, then slice each cucumber lengthwise into quarters to create spears.
- Combine the distilled white vinegar, water, and pickling salt in a large stainless steel pot, then bring the mixture to a boil over high heat while stirring occasionally until the salt fully dissolves.
- Place the garlic cloves, black peppercorns, dill seeds, and fresh dill evenly between 2 clean quart-sized mason jars, then tightly pack the cucumber spears vertically into each jar while leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
- Carefully pour the hot brine into each jar using a ladle and measuring cup, ensuring all cucumber spears are completely submerged while maintaining the 1/2 inch headspace below the jar rim.
- Wipe the jar rims with a clean damp cloth to remove any residue, seal tightly with lids, and allow the jars to cool to room temperature for about 2 hours until the lids pop and become concave.
- Refrigerate the sealed jars for at least 72 hours before opening to allow the flavors to fully develop, resulting in crisp, tangy pickles with balanced dill and garlic notes.
Nutrition
Notes
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
Making these Dill Pickle Spears at home means you know exactly what’s going into them, and that’s a wonderful feeling. While they’re a treat for your taste buds with their zesty crunch, they also offer some interesting health benefits of pickles. It’s one of the reasons I love keeping a jar in the fridge.
Since they’re fermented, these homemade pickles can be a source of probiotics, which are great for gut health. I find that starting a meal with a crisp spear can even help stimulate the appetite. For another gut-friendly favorite, my Korean cucumber salad is a fantastic option.
Of course, because we use pickling salt, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They’re fat-free and low in calories, making them a guilt-free snack. I often pair them with richer dishes to add a bright, acidic balance, much like I do with the sides in my collection of healthy Thanksgiving sides.
A Lighter Version of Easy Dill Pickle Spears
If you’re watching your sodium intake or just prefer a milder flavor, you can easily create a lighter version of these easy dill pickle spears. I often make a batch this way for my aunt, who is more salt-conscious, and they’re just as delicious.
The simplest tweak is to reduce the pickling salt by one or two tablespoons. The pickles will be slightly less intense but still wonderfully tangy. You can also experiment with adding more fresh herbs like extra dill or a sprig of tarragon to boost the flavor without the salt.
For a different kind of brine, try substituting a quarter of the vinegar with fresh lemon juice for a brighter, citrusy note. If you enjoy experimenting with lighter recipes, you might find inspiration in my ideas for healthy soup recipes that also focus on clean, vibrant flavors.
Another great tip is to enjoy your crisp dill pickle spears alongside other fresh, low-sodium dishes. A platter with these pickles, some vegetable side dishes, and a simple grilled protein makes for a perfectly balanced and satisfying meal.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
I firmly believe that good food should be accessible to everyone, no matter their dietary needs. When my friend Marie was diagnosed as pre-diabetic, we spent an afternoon in my kitchen adapting family recipes, and it opened my eyes to how simple swaps can make a world of difference. It’s all about being sugar-conscious without sacrificing flavor.
For a truly sugar-free version of these pickles, you can rest easy—this recipe is naturally free of added sugars. The tang comes purely from the vinegar, making it a great diabetic-friendly option. If you ever want to add a touch of sweetness in other recipes, I’ve had great results using a natural sweetener like stevia, which doesn’t impact blood sugar levels.
Portion control is another simple yet effective strategy. Enjoying a spear or two with a meal adds a fantastic punch of flavor without overdoing it. For more ideas on creating balanced, low glycemic meals, my healthy muffin recipes use wholesome ingredients like almond flour and zucchini.
How to Serve Dill Pickle Spears
I’ll never forget the summer picnics of my childhood, where a giant jar of my grandmother’s pickles always held a place of honor next the fried chicken. To me, Dill Pickle Spears are the ultimate companion food, adding a crisp, refreshing bite that cuts through richness and brings a meal together.
Of course, they’re a classic with a homemade dill pickle spears Reuben or a simple grilled cheese sandwich. But don’t stop there! I love chopping them up into a creamy potato salad or fine-tuning a classic cucumber salad for an extra tangy twist.
For a fun and unexpected pairing, try serving them alongside barbecue. The sharp vinegar taste is fantastic with smoky pulled pork or brisket. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of the brine makes a wicked good cocktail mixer, much like the flavors you’d find in my pickle lemonade drink recipe.
Ultimately, a jar of these crisp homemade spears with fresh dill in your fridge is an invitation to get creative. They’re a simple, flavorful touch that makes everyday meals feel a little more special.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve made just about every mistake possible with homemade pickles. There’s nothing sadder than opening a jar you’ve been patiently waiting on only to find soft, mushy spears. Let me save you from that disappointment by sharing the lessons I’ve learned the hard way.
First, using the wrong cucumbers will ruin your batch. You absolutely need firm pickling cucumbers, not the regular salad variety. The thinner skin and denser flesh of pickling cukes hold up to the brine beautifully, giving you those crisp dill pickle spears we all love.
Another common error is not properly sterilizing your jars. Any bacteria present can interfere with fermentation and lead to spoilage. I always run mine through the dishwasher’s hot cycle or pour boiling water into them right before filling. For more preservation basics, my guide to canning recipes for beginners covers all the essentials.
Don’t be tempted to reduce the vinegar or salt too much either. These aren’t just flavor agents—they’re preservation powerhouses that keep your pickles safe and crunchy. Always follow trusted FDA food safety guidelines when preserving foods at home.
Finally, patience is everything. I know it’s hard to wait, but those flavors need time to develop properly. Rushing the process means missing out on that perfect tangy depth that makes homemade pickles so special.
How to Store Dill Pickle Spears
My grandmother stored her pickles in a giant stone crock in the cool cellar, but thankfully we have simpler options today. Proper storage means you can enjoy your homemade creations for months, just like I do with my annual batch.
For refrigerator pickles, simply keep them in airtight glass jars in the coldest part of your fridge. They’ll stay crisp and flavorful for about 2-3 months this way. The brine acts as a natural preservative, but I always make sure the spears stay fully submerged to prevent any softening.
If you’ve gone through the canning process, your sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to a year. Once opened, treat them like refrigerator pickles and consume within a few months. I love having these pantry staples ready for quick meals, much like my collection of healthy no-bake desserts that are always at the ready.
Never freeze your pickles though—the ice crystals will destroy that wonderful crisp texture we work so hard to achieve. For other make-ahead ideas that freeze beautifully, check out my healthy soup recipes that are perfect for busy weeks.
Try This Dill Pickle Spears Yourself
There’s something truly magical about opening your first jar of homemade pickles. The crisp snap, the garlicky dill aroma, the satisfying tang—it tastes like accomplishment. I want you to experience that same pride I felt when my first successful batch came out perfectly.
This dill pickle spears recipe is my go-to for good reason: it works. Whether you’re new to pickling or looking to refine your technique, these spears will become a staple in your kitchen. They transform ordinary sandwiches into extraordinary meals and add that special touch to weeknight dinners.
I’d love to hear how your pickling adventure goes! Share your creations or variations you try—maybe you’ll discover a new family favorite. For more kitchen projects that bring joy, explore my healthy baking recipes or refreshing healthy drinks recipes.
Remember, cooking is about creating memories as much as meals. These homemade dill pickle spears might just become your signature touch at family gatherings, just like they’ve become mine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are dill pickle spears?
Dill pickle spears are cucumbers that have been quartered lengthwise and pickled in a brine with dill, garlic, and spices. They’re the classic pickle shape you often find alongside sandwiches at delis, offering that perfect combination of crunch and tangy flavor that makes them so irresistible.
What’s the difference between dill pickle spears and kosher dill pickle spears?
The main difference comes down to seasoning and preparation method. Kosher dills are typically fermented with garlic and dill, giving them a more complex, tangy flavor profile, while regular dill pickles are often quick-pickled in vinegar. Both make wonderful crisp homemade spears with fresh dill, but kosher style has that distinctive garlic-forward taste.
What is the 321 rule for pickles?
The 3-2-1 rule is a simple formula for quick pickling: 3 parts vinegar, 2 parts water, and 1 part sugar. While I often reduce the sugar for a more traditional tang, this ratio creates a balanced brine that works beautifully for quick refrigerator pickles with garlic and other vegetables like the ones in my pickled red onions recipe.
What are the best dill pickle spears?
The best spears are always the ones you make yourself! Homemade pickles let you control the crunch, flavor intensity, and ingredients. For me, the perfect spear is crisp throughout, generously flavored with fresh dill and garlic, and has that balanced tang that keeps you reaching for just one more.
More Pickle-Perfect Recipes To Try
If you loved making these spears, you’ll adore these other tangy, crunchy creations from my kitchen. Each one brings that same satisfying punch of flavor to your table.
- Quick-Pickled Red Onions – Vibrant pink ribbons that add sweet acidity to tacos, salads, and grain bowls.
- Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad – A crunchy, garlicky side with just the right kick of heat and sweetness.
- Classic Cucumber Salad – Cool, creamy, and refreshing with a tangy dill dressing that compliments any meal.
- Pickle Brine Lemonade – Surprisingly refreshing tangy-sweet drink that’s perfect for summer sipping.
- Cucumber Mint Infused Water – Light, refreshing hydration with subtle garden freshness in every sip.
- Chia Citrus Refresher – Energy-boosting drink with zesty citrus and nutritious chia seeds.
