Dill Pickle Spears

Dill pickle spears are slender, crunchy slices cut from cucumbers that have been preserved in a brine infused with dill, garlic, and spices. Originating from European pickling traditions, they are now a staple in American cuisine, particularly popular at ballparks and barbecues. These spears possess a tangy, slightly sour flavor with subtle hints of dill and garlic, offering a refreshing contrast to rich or fatty foods. Their texture is firm and crisp, providing a satisfying crunch that holds up well in various dishes. In cooking, dill pickle spears can add brightness and acidity, balancing out creamy or savory elements in recipes, and they maintain their structure even when briefly heated or incorporated into salads and relishes.

Notes

When selecting dill pickle spears, look for ones that are uniformly green and firm to the touch, avoiding any that appear soft or discolored. Store them in the refrigerator, submerged in their brine, for up to several weeks to maintain freshness. For longer storage, they can be frozen, though this may slightly affect texture. Be mindful that dill pickles are high in sodium, so they may not be suitable for low-sodium diets, and individuals with hypertension should consume them in moderation.

Uses

Add to sandwiches
Top burgers
Incorporate into potato salad
Blend into tartar sauce
Garnish charcuterie boards
Enhance deviled eggs

Replacements

Cornichons for smaller, tangier spears
Bread and butter pickles for a sweeter option
Gherkins for a milder flavor
Quick-pickled cucumbers for a homemade alternative
Kimchi for a fermented, spicy twist

Zucchini

Zucchini is a versatile summer squash known for its mild flavor and tender texture. It is typically green but can also be found in yellow or other colors. Zucchini is a staple in many cuisines and can be used in both savory and sweet dishes.

Whole Cumin Seeds

Whole cumin seeds are the dried seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, offering a warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor with hints of citrus and spice.

Recipes to try

Sticky Honey Garlic Cocktail Meatballs

These bite-sized meatballs are drenched in a glossy, sweet-and-savory honey garlic glaze that'll have you popping them like candy.

Zucchini Corn Fritters with Herbed Yogurt

Golden, crispy fritters packed with sweet corn and tender zucchini, served with a cooling, fragrant herbed yogurt dipping sauce.