Zucchini Dill Pickles

Crisp, tangy pickled zucchini spears flavored with fresh dill, aromatic spices, and a kick of jalapeño. These homemade pickles combine the perfect balance of vinegar, spices, and fresh vegetables for a delicious condiment or snack.

4 servings
2 hr 40 min

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds small zucchini (preferably about 4" or 8" long), trimmed
  • 4 tablespoons coarse sea salt or pickling salt, divided
  • 12 sprigs fresh dill sprigs
  • 2 teaspoons yellow or brown mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1 teaspoon dill seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon saffron threads
  • 4 cloves garlic cloves, halved
  • 4 whole red jalapeños or Fresno chiles, split lengthwise
  • cups white wine vinegar
  • ¼ cup sugar

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    If using 4" zucchini, halve lengthwise. If using 8" zucchini, halve crosswise, then quarter lengthwise. Place in a large bowl. Add 2 tablespoons salt and 4 cups ice. Add cold water to cover. Top with a plate to keep submerged. Let sit for 2 hours. Drain; rinse.

    120 min

  2. 2.

    Divide dill sprigs and next 6 ingredients between 2 clean, hot 1-quart jars; set aside.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Bring vinegar, sugar, remaining 2 tablespoons salt, and 1 1/4 cups water to a boil in a large saucepan. Working in batches, add zucchini and cook, stirring occasionally, until khaki in color and slightly pliable, about 2 minutes. Using tongs, transfer zucchini to jars.

    15 min

  4. 4.

    Divide hot syrup between jars to cover zucchini, leaving 1/2" space on top. Wipe rims, seal, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Allow at least a week to pickle before eating.

    20 min

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