If you’re looking for a unique and refreshing way to preserve your summer harvest, this lemon cucumber dill pickle recipe is the perfect solution. Combining the mild, slightly sweet flavor of lemon cucumbers with the tang of vinegar and the boldness of dill, these pickles bring a delightful crunch and brightness to your plate.
Whether you’re new to pickling or a seasoned pro, you’ll love how easy and flavorful this homemade dill pickle recipe is. Let’s dive into how to turn your garden-fresh lemon cucumbers into crisp, delicious pickles.
What Are Lemon Cucumbers?
Despite their name, lemon cucumbers don’t taste like lemons. They get their name from their small, round shape and yellow skin, which resembles a lemon. Their flavor is mild and less bitter than regular cucumbers, making them perfect for pickling. They’re also tender and less seedy, which results in a better texture in your final product.
Why This Lemon Cucumber Dill Pickle Recipe Works
This recipe is:
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✅ Easy to follow
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✅ Requires minimal ingredients
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✅ Ready in just a few days (refrigerator method)
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✅ Bursting with bright, garden-fresh flavor
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✅ Perfect for snacks, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards
Ingredients
To make this lemon cucumber dill pickle recipe, you’ll need:
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4–5 lemon cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
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1 1/2 cups white vinegar
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1 1/2 cups water
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2 tablespoons kosher salt
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1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for balance)
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4–6 garlic cloves, smashed
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1 teaspoon black peppercorns
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1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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Fresh dill sprigs (1–2 per jar)
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1 bay leaf per jar
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2 pint-sized mason jars, sterilized
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Jars and Cucumbers
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Wash the lemon cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into 1/4-inch rounds or spears, depending on your preference.
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Sterilize your jars by boiling them for 10 minutes or running them through a hot dishwasher cycle.
Step 2: Make the Brine
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In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar (if using).
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Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Pack the Jars
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Place garlic, peppercorns, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, dill, and a bay leaf at the bottom of each jar.
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Pack the cucumber slices tightly into the jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
Step 4: Add the Brine
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Pour the warm brine over the cucumbers, making sure they are fully submerged.
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Tap the jars gently to release any air bubbles. Seal with lids.
Step 5: Refrigerate
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Let the jars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.
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Pickles will be ready to enjoy in about 48 hours and will continue to develop flavor over time.
Serving Suggestions
These lemon cucumber dill pickles are wonderfully versatile. Use them:
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As a crunchy topping for burgers and sandwiches
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In pasta or potato salads for a burst of acidity
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On charcuterie boards alongside cheese and cured meats
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As a refreshing, guilt-free snack on their own
They’re especially refreshing on hot summer days thanks to the mild cucumber flavor and fresh dill.
Tips for Perfect Pickles
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Use fresh cucumbers: The fresher your lemon cucumbers, the crisper your pickles will be.
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Slice evenly: For consistent texture and flavor, keep your slices the same thickness.
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Add a grape leaf: For extra crunch, place a grape leaf in each jar. The tannins help maintain crispness.
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Store cold: This refrigerator pickle recipe does not require canning but must be stored in the fridge.
Variations
Want to customize your lemon cucumber dill pickle recipe? Try these simple twists:
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Spicy Pickles: Add sliced jalapeños or more red pepper flakes.
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Sweet Pickles: Increase sugar to 2–3 tablespoons for a bread-and-butter style twist.
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Herb Infused: Add fresh thyme, tarragon, or coriander seeds for more herbal complexity.
Final Thoughts
This lemon cucumber dill pickle recipe is a simple yet satisfying way to make the most of your garden bounty. With bright, zesty flavor and a beautiful presentation, these pickles are a standout addition to any meal. They’re also a great way to preserve summer flavors for weeks to come.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the crisp, refreshing taste of homemade lemon cucumber pickles. You’ll be hooked after just one bite!