Who doesn’t love a good pickle? From crunchy dill spears to tangy bread-and-butter chips, pickles come in various flavors and styles. However, not all pickles are created equal. In this guide, we’ll explore 7 of the best pickle brands that are worth adding to your shopping list and 7 that you might want to skip.
Whether you’re a pickle enthusiast or just looking for some new culinary delights, this list will help you make an informed choice. So let’s explore the world of pickles and find out which ones deserve a spot in your pantry.
1. Grillo’s Pickles
Grillo’s Pickles are a refreshing taste of summer, capturing the bright, fresh flavors of garden-fresh cucumbers. Known for their crunchy texture, Grillo’s offer a delightful snap with every bite.
The pickles are marinated with dill and garlic, creating a perfect balance of tangy and savory. Each jar is packed with whole, firm cucumbers that maintain their integrity even in brine. Their all-natural ingredients make them a healthier choice for pickle lovers.
Enjoy them on their own or as a zesty addition to sandwiches and burgers. Grillo’s truly embodies the essence of quality pickling.
2. Claussen Kosher Dill Spears
When it comes to crunch and classic flavor, few pickles compare to Claussen Kosher Dill Spears. Always refrigerated for maximum freshness, these spears deliver a satisfying snap with every bite. Their bold, garlicky profile is perfectly balanced by subtle notes of mustard seed, giving them a signature taste that stands out on any plate.
Whether you’re snacking straight from the jar or stacking them on a sandwich, Claussen pickles bring a punch of flavor and texture. With a reputation built on quality ingredients and time-honored pickling methods, Claussen proves that excellence is in the brine.
3. Boar’s Head Kosher Dill Pickles
Boar’s Head Kosher Dill Pickles offer a robust and savory flavor profile, ideal for deli enthusiasts. These pickles are crafted using a traditional recipe, with a perfect blend of spices that enhance their natural taste.
Their firm texture ensures a satisfying crunch, making them a staple in any pickle lover’s pantry. Boar’s Head focuses on quality and tradition, providing a product that pairs beautifully with meats and cheeses.
Whether added to a charcuterie board or enjoyed straight from the jar, these pickles deliver a bold and authentic taste experience.
4. Milwaukee’s Kosher Dill Pickles
Few pickles capture old-school charm quite like Milwaukee’s Kosher Dill Pickles. With a crisp bite and tangy zest, they channel classic Midwest flavors in every jar. Crafted from a time-honored recipe, these pickles celebrate the natural taste of fresh cucumbers, subtly enhanced by dill and garlic for just the right amount of depth.
The signature crunch is a testament to their quality, making them an ideal companion for picnics, deli spreads, or comfort meals. Every jar serves up a satisfying sense of nostalgia—Milwaukee’s pickling tradition is alive and well.
5. Vlasic Kosher Dill Spears
Vlasic Kosher Dill Spears are a beloved classic, recognized for their signature crunch and tangy flavor. These pickles are characterized by their bright, zesty taste that complements a variety of dishes.
The iconic blue stork mascot on the jar is a testament to Vlasic’s longstanding tradition of quality pickling. With each spear, you’ll experience a satisfying snap that makes them perfect for snacking or adding to burgers.
Vlasic’s commitment to freshness and flavor ensures that their pickles remain a favorite among pickle enthusiasts. Enjoy the timeless appeal of Vlasic pickles today.
6. Trader Joe’s Kosher Dill Pickle Spears
If you’re looking to break away from the ordinary, Trader Joe’s Kosher Dill Pickle Spears are a flavorful detour worth taking. These pickles pack a punch with their bright, tangy profile and a medley of dill and spices that deliver a vibrant bite.
Their firm, snappy texture makes them a standout on the plate—whether tucked into a sandwich or enjoyed straight from the jar. As with many Trader Joe’s favorites, these spears reflect the brand’s creative approach to everyday staples, offering a fresh, fun twist on the traditional dill pickle.
7. Rick’s Picks Classic Sours
Rick’s Picks Classic Sours stand out with their bold and tangy flavor, offering a sophisticated twist on the traditional pickle. These pickles are crafted with care, using a blend of natural ingredients that highlight the sour notes without being overpowering.
Each jar is filled with crunchy, fresh cucumbers that provide a delightful texture. Perfect for gourmet meals or as a unique addition to cheese platters, Rick’s Picks showcases a dedication to quality and innovation. Experience the artisan craftsmanship in every bite of these exquisite pickles.
8. McClure’s Whole Garlic & Dill Pickles
Bold and unapologetically garlicky, McClure’s Whole Garlic & Dill Pickles aren’t here to play it safe. These pickles come on strong—especially for those with a sensitive palate—delivering an intense garlic flavor that can easily steal the show.
While their firm crunch earns points, the overpowering taste can be polarizing, limiting their appeal for more casual or versatile snacking. They’re a love-it-or-leave-it option, best suited for garlic enthusiasts. For anyone seeking a more balanced dill experience, this might not be the jar to reach for first.
9. Mt. Olive Kosher Dill Spears
Mt. Olive Kosher Dill Spears can be hit or miss, depending on your taste preferences. While they offer a classic dill flavor, some find them lacking in the crispness department.
The brine doesn’t always penetrate as deeply, leading to inconsistencies in taste and texture. While affordable, these pickles may not meet the expectations of those who prioritize crunch and flavor depth.
If you’re seeking a more premium pickle experience, you might want to explore other options. Mt. Olive remains a staple in many households but may not satisfy every pickle aficionado.
10. Bubbies Kosher Dill Pickles
Not all pickles are created equal—and Bubbies Kosher Dill Pickles prove just that. Known for their old-world fermentation and cult following, these pickles stand out with a naturally sour tang that can divide opinions.
Unlike the typical crisp dill spear, Bubbies offer a softer bite and a boldly fermented flavor that leans more artisan than mainstream. Their probiotic perks appeal to the health-conscious, but the taste may be a bit much for traditionalists.
Adventurous eaters might appreciate the twist, but if you’re craving classic deli crunch, these may not hit the mark.
11. Suckerpunch Deli-Style Kosher Dill Wholes
Suckerpunch Deli-Style Kosher Dill Wholes try to make a statement with their bold flavors but might not suit traditional tastes.
These pickles are packed with spices, leading to a complex taste that can be overwhelming. The experimental flavor combinations may not resonate with all pickle lovers, especially those who prefer simplicity in their snacks.
While innovative, the risk of overpowering the palate is real, making them less appealing to those who cherish classic pickle flavors. Approach with curiosity if you enjoy bold culinary adventures, but stick to simpler pickles for everyday enjoyment.
12. Wickles Original Pickles
At first glance, Wickles Original Pickles promise something fun and different—but not every twist hits the mark. With a sweet and spicy combo, these pickles definitely stray from tradition, offering a bold flavor that some find exciting and others find overwhelming.
The sugary notes tend to dominate, masking the crisp cucumber base and leaving a lingering heat that may not suit all palates. While they might appeal to adventurous snackers, fans of classic dill or tangy sour pickles may want to keep browsing the aisle.
13. Great Value Kosher Dill Pickle Spears
Great Value Kosher Dill Pickle Spears, despite their name, may not offer the best value in terms of flavor and texture. These pickles tend to be softer, lacking the satisfying crunch that many pickle lovers seek. The dill flavor can be subdued, leading to a somewhat bland taste experience.
While they are an economical choice, the compromise in quality may not be worth the savings for some. If you’re willing to spend a little extra, there are better options available that provide a more robust and enjoyable pickle experience. Consider upgrading if taste is a priority.
14. Best Maid Dill Pickles
Take one bite of a Best Maid Dill Pickle, and you’ll know you’re not in pickle-neutral territory. These Texas-born pickles come with a bold, vinegar-forward bite that’s anything but shy.
Beloved by many in the South, their distinct flavor is sharp, tangy, and unmistakably regional. While fans relish the intensity, others may find the brine too aggressive and the taste too polarizing.
If you’re into bold, no-nonsense pickles with personality, they might hit the spot. But for those craving a more mellow or familiar dill experience, Best Maid may be a step too far.
Leave a comment