There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the first crunch of a sweet-tart Southern refrigerator pickle. Growing up, these were a staple at my grandma’s summer table—right beside the deviled eggs and iced tea pitchers. Every summer, we’d gather cucumbers from her backyard garden and turn them into these crisp, vinegary gems. They’re not only easy to make but come together with just a few pantry basics. I love sharing this timeless recipe with my own family now, and it never fails to bring that same old-fashioned comfort to the table.
Whether you’re making your first batch or you’re a pickle pro, this Southern refrigerator pickles recipe is a no-fuss way to preserve summer flavor all week long.
Southern Refrigerator Pickles Recipe
Table of Contents
A Southern Tradition in a Jar
Homemade pickles without canning
Southern refrigerator pickles bring all the charm of a vintage kitchen without the fuss of water baths or canning tools. Just slice, mix, and chill. The base recipe uses Kirby cucumbers, which are perfectly crisp, but you can also use small English or Persian cucumbers for variety. The sweetness of Vidalia onions gives it that signature Southern twang.
This recipe is reminiscent of simple, satisfying dishes like Cucumber Tomato Salad, where fresh garden ingredients shine with minimal prep. The balance of apple cider vinegar and sugar in this quick-pickle brine captures that sweet and sour profile we Southerners adore.
Ingredients That Make It Shine
Simple pantry staples come to life
What makes this refrigerator pickle recipe sing is its simplicity. You need only a few ingredients: vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper—plus those fresh cucumbers and onions. If you want to layer in more depth, a pinch of red pepper flakes or garlic slivers can elevate the profile even further.
We use apple cider vinegar for its mellow tang, which pairs beautifully with natural sweeteners. This is the same flavor trick that works so well in Homemade Roasted Tomato Sauce, where acidity rounds out natural sugars to perfection.
Ingredients
- 6 – 8 Kirby or small cucumbers
- 2 small Vidalia or spring onions
- ⅓ cup Apple Cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
Easy Steps to Refrigerator Pickle Success
Slice, mix, pour, chill—done!
These pickles are delightfully low-maintenance. Simply slice your cucumbers and onions thinly (a mandoline makes quick work), and mix your vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour that over the veggies, and toss it all into a covered jar or bowl.
The pickles need about an hour in the fridge to develop flavor, but they’re even better overnight. This kind of quick flavor payoff makes them a favorite alongside grilled meals like Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken, where that crunch cuts through rich, savory dishes perfectly.
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers and onions thinly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over cucumbers and onions.
- Chill for at least an hour before serving.
- Store in a covered container in the fridge for up to one week.
You’ll love how easily this comes together—just like other fresh-prep dishes such as Pineapple Cucumber Salad or the creamy texture contrast in a Southern Potato Salad.
Storage, Variations & Creative Pairings
How to tweak and store your pickles like a pro
Store your refrigerator pickles in a glass jar with a tight lid to maintain crunch and freshness. They’ll keep for about a week in the fridge—if they last that long! If you’re meal prepping or entertaining, make a double batch; they disappear fast.
Want to mix it up? Try adding sliced carrots or jalapeños to the jar. For extra Southern flair, a dash of celery seed or a touch of turmeric can add color and warmth, similar to the gentle spice in Frito Corn Salad or the robust crunch in Black Bean Corn Pasta Salad.
| Add-In | Flavor Boost |
|---|---|
| Red Pepper Flakes | Spicy kick |
| Fresh Garlic | Aromatic depth |
| Celery Seed | Earthy and herbal |
| Dill Sprigs | Traditional pickle flavor |
Southern Refrigerator Pickles Recipe: Crisp, Sweet, and Tangy Delight
- Total Time: 1 hr
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A quick and crisp Southern refrigerator pickle recipe made with cucumbers, onions, and a tangy-sweet vinegar brine—ready in just an hour!
Ingredients
6 – 8 Kirby or small cucumbers
2 small Vidalia or spring onions
⅓ cup Apple Cider vinegar
⅓ cup sugar
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
1. Slice cucumbers and onions thinly.
2. Whisk together vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper in a small bowl and pour over cucumbers and onions.
3. Chill in the fridge for about an hour before serving.
4. Store pickles in covered bowl or jar with a lid in the fridge for up to a week.
Notes
Add garlic or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Best served cold and crisp.
Pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Side Dish, Pickles
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 72
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 152mg
- Fat: 0.4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.04g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.03g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
FAQs About Southern Refrigerator Pickles
1. Do I need to boil the brine for refrigerator pickles?
Nope! That’s the beauty of refrigerator pickles. As long as the sugar dissolves fully, there’s no need to boil—just stir well and pour over your veggies.
2. Can I use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
Yes, but apple cider vinegar adds more flavor. White vinegar is more neutral, so you may want to slightly adjust the sugar for balance.
3. How long do refrigerator pickles last?
They’ll stay crisp and tasty for up to a week if stored properly in the fridge. Use a sealed glass container for best results.
4. Can I reuse the pickle brine?
Technically yes, but the flavor may weaken after the first use. It’s safest and tastiest to make a fresh batch of brine each time.
Conclusion: A Quick Southern Favorite You’ll Make on Repeat
This Southern refrigerator pickles recipe is the kind of dish that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly easy. With no canning required and only a handful of ingredients, you’ll find yourself making these crisp little bites again and again. Pair them with grilled mains or serve them as a zesty snack—their tangy, sweet flavor will brighten any plate. For another easy, seasonal idea, don’t miss our refreshing Pineapple Cucumber Salad or the tangy bite of a Black Bean Corn Pasta Salad.
