Easy Refrigerator Dilly Beans: A Crunchy Pickle Delight

The first time I had dilly beans was around 15 years ago when my mother-in-law prepared them and offered them to me. Since I love pickles, I thought, why not give them a try? I can't say enough how much I enjoyed them. So, if you're looking for a simple, delicious way to preserve the summer bounty of fresh green beans, look no further than easy refrigerator dilly beans. These tangy, crunchy pickles add a zesty kick to sandwiches, snack platters, and salads, and they’re unbelievably straightforward to make. 

Let’s dive into the world of refrigerator dilly beans—a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

What are Dilly Beans?

Dilly beans are a type of pickled green bean that gets its name from the inclusion of dill, giving them a distinctive flavor profile. Unlike traditional canned pickles, refrigerator dilly beans are quick to prepare and do not require a hot water bath for preservation. Instead, they are stored in the fridge and are ready to eat after just 24 hours of marinating, making them an ideal choice for anyone wanting to enjoy homemade pickles without the commitment of canning.

Makes 1 Quart or 2 Pints 

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create your own delicious refrigerator dilly beans, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pickling Brine:

• 1 cup white vinegar (5% acidity)
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt (or pickling salt)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, depending on your taste)
• 2 teaspoons of the pickling spice
  
  
  

For the Dilly Beans:

• 1/2 pound fresh green beans (trimmed to fit your jars)
• 3 cloves of garlic (peeled and smashed) or minced garlic 1.5 teaspoons
• Fresh dill (about 3 sprigs, or more to taste) or dried dill 1.5 teaspoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brine

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, kosher salt, and sugar. Add the pickling spice.
2. Heat: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the salt and sugar have fully dissolved.
3. Cool: Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the brine cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Pack the Jars

1. Prepare Jars: Sterilize your jars and lids by washing them in hot, soapy water or placing them in a hot dishwasher cycle.
2. Fill Jars: Divide the trimmed green beans, smashed garlic cloves, and dill into the jars. You can pack them tightly for maximum flavor, but ensure there’s enough space for the brine.

Step 3: Add the Brine

1. Pour the Brine: Carefully pour the cooled brine over the green beans, ensuring that the beans are fully submerged. Leave about half an inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
2. Seal the Jars: Wipe the rim of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue. Secure the lids on the jars, tightening them just enough so they are sealed but not overly tight.

Step 4: Refrigerate and Wait

1. Refrigerate: Place the jars in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before tasting. While they’ll be flavorful at this point, the flavors will deepen and improve over the next week or two.
2. Enjoy: Your easy refrigerator dilly beans are now ready! They will keep in the fridge for about 2 months if they last that long.

Easy Refrigerator Dilly Beans by Sassy Silver Sisters

Tips for the Best Dilly Beans

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the green beans, garlic, and dill, the better the flavor of your pickles. Look for vibrant, crisp beans at your local farmers' market or grocery store.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your recipe by adding other spices, such as thyme, bay leaves, or a splash of hot sauce for extra kick.
• Vary the Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños for a spicier version if you like some extra heat.

Conclusion

Easy refrigerator dilly beans are a straightforward, rewarding way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of pickled vegetables. Not only do they make for an excellent snack, but they also elevate a wide range of dishes, from charcuterie boards to salads. With minimal time and effort, you can create a jar (or two!) of these delightful crunchy treats that will brighten up your meals. So grab some fresh green beans and start pickling—your taste buds will thank you!

Have you ever tried dilly beans? We encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Keep it sassy,

Kelly

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