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Easy Tangy Quick Pickled Zucchini Ribbons Recipe with Garlic and Dill

quick pickled zucchini ribbons - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for tangy, crisp zucchini ribbons pickled with garlic and dill, perfect as a refreshing side or snack in under an hour.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium zucchinis, washed and sliced into thin ribbons
  • 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 2 tablespoons dried dill)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) white vinegar (distilled or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt (or sea salt)
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the zucchinis and trim the ends. Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, shave the zucchini lengthwise into thin ribbons about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick, yielding about 4 cups (400 grams). Set aside in a large bowl.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt. Add black peppercorns, mustard seeds (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over medium until sugar and salt dissolve completely, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Add sliced garlic cloves and chopped fresh dill to the zucchini ribbons. Toss gently to mix.
  4. Pour the warm (not hot) brine over the zucchini ribbons, ensuring they are fully submerged. Press down with a spoon or tongs if needed.
  5. Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Cover the bowl or transfer the zucchini and brine into a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 hour. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  6. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Notes

Use thin ribbons for best texture and flavor absorption. Let the brine cool before pouring over zucchini to avoid limp ribbons. Store in glass containers to preserve flavor. If zucchini is watery, salt ribbons and drain before pickling to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick pickled zucchini, zucchini ribbons, garlic dill pickles, easy pickles, summer side dish, tangy zucchini, quick pickles