Quick Refrigerator Pickles

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables
   Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice into ¼-inch rounds. Thinly slice the onion and lightly crush the garlic cloves. Distribute these evenly among clean glass jars.
2. Add herbs and spices
   Add the fresh dill, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, bay leaves, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the jars, distributing them evenly among all containers.
3. Make the brine
   In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt completely dissolve, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Pour the brine
   Carefully pour the warm brine over the cucumber mixture in the jars, making sure to completely cover all vegetables. Leave about ½ inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
5. Seal and cool
   Tightly seal the jars with lids and allow them to cool to room temperature, about 1 hour. The warm brine will slightly soften the vegetables and begin the pickling process.
6. Refrigerate
   Once cooled to room temperature, transfer the jars to the refrigerator. For best flavor, allow the pickles to marinate for at least 4 hours, though they'll reach optimal flavor after 24-48 hours.