From Garden to Jar: Homemade Dill Pickles with Fresh Garden Cucumbers & Dried Herbs

Pickling is such an important part of homesteading.

There's something uniquely rewarding about quickly turning the fruits of your garden into delicious, fresh delights. Recently, I experimented with a quick pickling method using fresh cucumbers harvested straight from my garden, aromatic dill, dried herbs, and fragrant bay leaves. It was a simple, satisfying project capturing the vibrant flavors of summer almost instantly.

Harvest Highlights

Early in the morning, I picked vibrant, firm cucumbers, ideal for quick pickling. The unseasonably cool, crisp air and the aroma of garden herbs made the experience delightful. I recommend choosing smaller, uniform-sized cucumbers—they retain crunch and absorb flavors beautifully.

The Magic of Dill, Dried Herbs & Bay Leaves

Dill adds a bright, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with cucumbers. Supplementing fresh dill with dried herbs like thyme and oregano intensifies the flavor. Adding bay leaves brings a subtle, earthy fragrance, enhancing the overall pickle experience.

Quick Pickle Recipe

Here's how to make your own quick dill pickles:

Ingredients:

• Fresh cucumbers, washed and ends trimmed

• Fresh dill sprigs

• Dried thyme and oregano

• Bay leaves (1–2 per jar)

• 1 cups distilled white vinegar

• 1 cups cold water

• 2 tbsp kosher salt

• 1-2 rarlic cloves

• Peppercorns

Instructions:

1. Sterilize jars and lids by briefly boiling them.

2. Pack jars tightly with cucumbers, dill sprigs, dried herbs, bay leaves, garlic cloves, and peppercorns.

3. In a measuring cup, combine vinegar, water and salt, and sugar.

4. Pour the brine over cucumbers, leaving about ½ inch space at the top.

5. Seal jars and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight, before enjoying.

   
   

Pickling Tips & Tricks

• For extra crunchy pickles, soak cucumbers in ice water for an hour before pickling.

• Adjust dried herbs or add extra bay leaves for a unique flavor twist.

• Quick pickles taste best within a week, though they can last several weeks refrigerated.

  
  

Serving & Enjoying

These quick homemade dill pickles are perfect as snacks, on sandwiches, or as a fresh addition to your charcuterie board. Enjoy them crisp and flavorful within a few weeks.

Instant Summer Flavor

Quick pickling lets you instantly savor your garden harvest, enhancing any meal with vibrant freshness. Give this recipe a try, and I'd love to hear how yours turn out!

Happy quick pickling!