Description
Sweet yellow squash pickles are a unique and tangy snack that combines the mild sweetness of fresh summer squash with a crisp, flavorful pickling brine. This easy-to-make recipe balances sweetness and acidity to create a refreshing and crunchy treat perfect for snacking, adding to sandwiches, or pairing with grilled meats and salads.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 4 medium yellow squash, firm and fresh
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
Spices and Aromatics
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon dill seeds or 1 tablespoon fresh dill sprigs
- 3–4 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
Instructions
- Prepare the Squash: Wash the yellow squash thoroughly, trim off the ends, and slice into uniform rounds or half-moons about 1/4 inch thick to ensure even pickling.
- Make the Brine: In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved, creating a clear, balanced brine.
- Add Aromatics and Spices: Place mustard seeds, dill seeds or fresh dill, garlic cloves, and black peppercorns into clean sterilized jars, layering them at the bottom and sides for maximum infusion.
- Pack Squash into Jars: Neatly pack the sliced squash into the jars, pressing gently to maximize space but avoid crushing to preserve their delightful crunch.
- Pour the Brine and Seal: Carefully pour the hot brine over the squash slices, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Leave a little headspace, seal the jars, and let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Wait and Enjoy: Allow the pickles to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 48 hours. This resting period develops the tangy and sweet flavor, making each bite irresistible.
Notes
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice squash evenly for uniform pickling.
- Sterilize jars before use to extend shelf life and prevent spoilage.
- Don’t skip the sugar; it balances acidity and enhances the flavor profile.
- Allow at least 48 hours of marinating time for best flavor results.
- Keep squash fully submerged in brine using a weight or brine topper to prevent mold.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 25
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg