Best Vegan Dill Pickle Recipe for Crisp, Tangy Flavor

Updated On: October 5, 2025

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about biting into a crisp, tangy dill pickle that perfectly balances sourness and spice. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, a sandwich topper, or a crunchy side, homemade pickles always bring a fresh burst of flavor that’s hard to beat.

The best part? This vegan dill pickle recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires just a handful of simple ingredients.

No artificial preservatives or weird additives—just pure, natural goodness in every bite. If you’re a fan of fermented foods or just love that classic dill pickle zing, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Plus, making your own pickles means you can customize the flavors to perfectly suit your taste buds.

Ready to dive into the world of tangy, crunchy, and utterly delicious dill pickles? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to make authentic, crunchy dill pickles at home without any animal products. Using fresh cucumbers and a vibrant blend of herbs and spices, these pickles deliver that unmistakable dill flavor with a perfectly balanced tang.

What makes it stand out? It’s all about the simple, wholesome ingredients and the easy fermentation process that brings out a depth of flavor you just can’t get from store-bought pickles.

Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and full of probiotics to support gut health.

Whether you’re a pickle aficionado or just starting to explore homemade ferments, this recipe is approachable, flexible, and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh cucumbers (Kirby cucumbers are ideal for pickling)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar (5% acidity)
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt (pickling or sea salt, no iodine)
  • 4-5 garlic cloves, peeled and slightly crushed
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill (or 1 tablespoon dried dill seeds)
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
  • 2 teaspoons sugar (optional, balances acidity)

Equipment

  • 1 quart-sized glass jar with a lid (sterilized)
  • Small saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Tongs or fork (for handling cucumbers)
  • Clean kitchen towel

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice off the blossom end (this helps keep the pickles crisp). You can slice them into spears or rounds depending on your preference.
  2. Make the brine: In a small saucepan, combine the water, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, and sugar. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar fully dissolve. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
  3. Pack the jar: Place the garlic cloves, fresh dill, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and red pepper flakes into the bottom of the sterilized jar. Pack the cucumber slices tightly but without crushing.
  4. Pour the brine: Pour the cooled brine over the cucumbers, making sure they are fully submerged. Leave about half an inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
  5. Seal and refrigerate: Tightly screw on the lid and gently shake the jar to distribute the spices. Place the jar in the refrigerator for at least 48 hours before tasting. The flavor will intensify over time.
  6. Enjoy your pickles: After 2 days, your pickles should be crunchy and flavorful. They will keep in the fridge for up to 4 weeks.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, add a few grape leaves or a small piece of horseradish root to the jar.

Feel free to experiment with spices! Some people love adding coriander seeds, bay leaves, or even a cinnamon stick for a unique twist.

If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, reduce the garlic cloves to 2 or 3.

If you want truly fermented pickles (which develop probiotics), omit the vinegar and use a saltwater brine only, fermenting at room temperature for 5-7 days. However, the vinegar method here is quicker and guarantees crispness and safety.

For a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar slightly or add a splash of maple syrup.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1/4 cup)
Calories 10
Carbohydrates 2g
Fiber 1g
Sugar 1g
Sodium 450mg
Protein 0g
Fat 0g

Serving Suggestions

These vegan dill pickles are incredibly versatile! Slice them to add a crisp, tangy bite to sandwiches, burgers, or wraps.

They’re a perfect crunchy side for vegan hot dogs or grain bowls. Crumble them into potato salad or mix into a vegan tartar sauce for an extra punch of flavor.

Pair your pickles with hearty dishes like the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes or enjoy them alongside a fresh Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for a refreshing contrast.

Conclusion

Making your own vegan dill pickles at home is not only rewarding but also incredibly easy and customizable. With a handful of fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create pickles bursting with flavor and crunch that store-bought jars just can’t match.

Plus, you know exactly what’s going into your food—no hidden preservatives or additives.

This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned fermenters alike, offering a delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite while keeping it vegan and wholesome. Whether you’re snacking straight from the jar or jazzing up your favorite dishes, these pickles are bound to become your go-to condiment.

Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant, tangy taste of homemade dill pickles!

For more creative vegan recipes, check out the Leche De Pantera Recipe or the delightful Julie Marie Eats Recipes.

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Dill Pickle Recipe

Description: Crisp and tangy vegan dill pickles made with fresh cucumbers and a flavorful brine. Perfect for snacking or adding to sandwiches.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 cups

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups white vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 teaspoons dill seeds
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 4 fresh dill sprigs
  • 8 small cucumbers, sliced into spears

Instructions

  1. Combine water, vinegar, salt, and sugar in a pot and bring to a boil.
  2. Remove brine from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
  3. Place garlic, dill seeds, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and dill sprigs into a clean jar.
  4. Pack cucumber spears tightly into the jar.
  5. Pour cooled brine over the cucumbers, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  6. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 48 hours before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 15 kcal | Protein: 0.5 g | Fat: 0 g | Carbs: 3 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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