Pickle

Cucumis sativus (for cucumber pickles) Preserved Vegetable, Condiment, Fermented Food

Pickle Preserved Vegetable, Condiment, Fermented Food

At a Glance

  • Category Preserved Vegetable, Condiment, Fermented Food

The Forktionary Angle

"More than just a side, the humble pickle brings a burst of tangy, briny flavor that cuts richness and awakens the palate."

Definition

A cucumber or other vegetable preserved in a brine, vinegar, or similar solution, resulting in a distinct sour or tangy flavor.

Global Consumption Billions of units annually
Key Preservation Method Lactic Acid Fermentation or Vinegar Brine
Nutritional Benefit (Fermented) Probiotics

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Pickle are:

Sour Tangy Salty Briny sometimes Sweet or Spicy

Chef’s Secret

Don't discard the pickle brine! It's excellent for marinating chicken, adding tang to salad dressings, or even in a Bloody Mary.

Best Substitutes

Capers

chopped, for brininess
Ratio 1:1

pickled onions

for tang and crunch
Ratio 1:1

cornichons

a type of pickle
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Check for crispness; avoid soft or mushy pickles. Read labels for natural ingredients and desired flavor profile (dill, sweet, spicy).

Recipes Using Pickle

Dietary High Protein Preparation Ground Beef

Big Mac Meatloaf

Inspired by a heartwarming story of a group home and seven delightful ladies, this Big Mac Meatloaf recipe is a fun, flavorful twist on a comfort food classic! No eggs? No problem! This recipe uses clever substitutions to create a juicy, cheesy meatloaf that's sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for a taste sensation that's both nostalgic and surprisingly innovative – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Don't let the simplicity fool you; this meatloaf is packed with Big Mac-inspired flavors!

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Easy Course Main Dish Easy

Pretty Freaking Awesome Pulled Pork Crock Pot

This recipe delivers unbelievably tender, juicy pulled pork, perfect for a crowd-pleasing meal! We've combined the best elements from several top-rated recipes and added a unique twist for maximum flavor. Easy enough for the whole family to participate (even the little ones!), this slow-cooker masterpiece is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready for melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness!

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15 Minutes Or Less Course Time To Make Preparation

10 Minute Low Fat Potato Salad

Craving creamy potato salad without the guilt or the long wait? This 10-minute recipe delivers! Made from scratch with a vibrant, low-fat yogurt-based dressing, tangy mustard, and briny olives, this recipe is a game-changer. Easily doubled for larger gatherings (add 5 minutes to the cook time). Perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or a quick lunch!

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Crock Pot Slow Cooker Easy 5 Ingredients Or Less Inexpensive

3 Ingredient Pulled Pork

This unbelievably tender pulled pork recipe is a game-changer! Using just three simple ingredients and your slow cooker, you'll have juicy, flavorful pork ready in hours. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginners. We used a pork loin roast (or tenderloin!), but feel free to experiment! Serve on toasted buns with your favorite coleslaw, pickles, and hot sauce for an unforgettable meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredibly simple yet delicious pulled pork recipe!

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High In Something Time To Make Dinner Party High In Something

Alabama Bbq Chicken And White Sauce Grilled

Experience the smoky, juicy perfection of Alabama BBQ Chicken, grilled to tender perfection and slathered in a creamy, dreamy white sauce! This recipe, inspired by a Cook's Country magazine recipe and perfected on a Green Egg smoker, delivers incredible flavor. Learn how to achieve that signature smoky taste even without a smoker, using simple indirect grilling techniques. Serve this mouthwatering chicken on toasted buns with crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and a generous drizzle of our unforgettable white sauce. Prepare for a BBQ explosion!

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Main Ingredient Easy Time To Make Meat

All American Hamburgers

Fire up the grill for these juicy, flavorful All-American BBQ Burgers! Our family recipe features a secret ingredient for extra deliciousness. These 1/4 lb burgers are perfect for a summer cookout and easily customizable – add bacon for a bacon cheeseburger, or your favorite toppings. Get ready for the best burger you've ever tasted!

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Dietary American Main Ingredient Beef

All American Loaded Burgers

Fire up the grill for these juicy, All-American Loaded Burgers! Perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is easily doubled or halved to fit your needs. Get ready for a flavor explosion with customizable toppings – the possibilities are endless! Simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress.

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Beginner Cook 30 Minutes Or Less Main Dish Easy

Almost White Castle Hamburgers

Craving White Castle but don't want to leave the house? This recipe delivers mini sliders that taste incredibly close to the real deal! Perfect for a fun family dinner, game day gatherings, or kids' parties, these bite-sized burgers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even White Castle skeptics will be hooked! Easily freezable for future cravings. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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North American High In Something 30 Minutes Or Less Turkey

American Turkey Burgers

Say goodbye to boring turkey burgers! This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful patties bursting with delicious taste. Easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. These American Turkey Burgers are topped with melted American cheese and all your favorite burger fixings. Get ready for a burger experience that will change your mind about turkey!

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Time To Make Cookies And Brownies American North American

April Fools Day Cheeseburger Cake

Trick your friends and family with this hilarious and surprisingly delicious Cheeseburger Cake! Perfect for April Fools' Day or any occasion when you want to serve a fun, unexpected dessert that tastes like dinner. This savory-sweet masterpiece features a juicy burger-flavored cake layered with creamy cheese frosting and all the classic burger toppings.

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Course Inexpensive Time To Make Ground Beef

Aunt Helen's Sloppy Joes

Experience the ultimate comfort food with Aunt Helen's Sloppy Joes! This slow-cooked recipe develops a rich, delicious sauce that's perfect for a family meal or a cozy night in. The slightly sweet and tangy flavor will have everyone asking for seconds. Freezes beautifully for easy weeknight meals. Easily customizable – add more Worcestershire sauce to your liking!

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Technique Sandwiches Technique 30 Minutes Or Less

Awesome Steamed Cheeseburgers

Craving juicy, gooey cheeseburgers without the grease splatters? This recipe recreates the magic of Ted's Restaurant in Meriden, CT, using a simple steaming method! Inspired by a Travel Channel episode, this recipe delivers incredibly flavorful, tender burgers in just minutes. No flipping required – simply steam to perfection and top with your favorite fixings. Easy cleanup is an added bonus!

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Lunch Course 60 Minutes Or Less Dietary

Barbecue Burgers Mix

Fire up your taste buds with this family-favorite Barbecue Burgers Mix! My sister's secret recipe delivers juicy, flavorful burgers bursting with barbecue goodness. Easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue.

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15 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Spreads Jewish Sephardi

Best Israeli Hummus

Craving authentic Israeli hummus? This recipe comes incredibly close to the creamy, dreamy hummus you'll find throughout Israel! We've streamlined the process with canned chickpeas for ultimate convenience, but feel free to use dried for a deeper flavor (instructions may vary slightly). Get ready to experience the taste of Israel in your own kitchen – perfect with warm pita and your favorite toppings!

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Barbecue Meat 5 Ingredients Or Less Sandwiches

Beth's Best Burgers

These juicy, flavorful burgers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! My husband and kids can't get enough of them. This easy recipe delivers delicious homemade burgers perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. Get ready for burger bliss!

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Preparation Dietary Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less

Big Sandwich Spread

Wow your guests with this epic Big Sandwich Spread! Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a casual get-together. This recipe is easily customizable – use your favorite meats and toppings to create a crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Whether you bake your own crusty French bread or grab a loaf from the store, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to create such a delicious and impressive spread!

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Vegetables Salads Potatoes Pasta

Kittencal's Ranch Potato Salad Or Macaroni Salad

This crowd-pleasing Kittencal's Ranch Potato or Macaroni Salad is a guaranteed hit at any gathering! The creamy, flavorful dressing is the star, perfect with tender potatoes or pasta. Customize it with ham or bacon for extra indulgence. Make ahead – the longer it chills, the better the flavors meld! Get ready for rave reviews!

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