Pickles, Illustrated, a Review

As someone who’s admittedly swayed by a cookbook’s visual charm, Pickles, Illustrated stole my heart the moment I laid eyes on its adorable pickle imagery and clean, inviting design. This isn’t just a pretty face, though—it’s packed with 36 high-quality recipes that make pickling accessible and fun, from classic kosher dills to quirky creations like Green Strawberry Salsa. The bright illustrations elevate the experience, turning each page into a visual treat that’s as delightful as the recipes themselves. For a visual person like me, this book strikes the perfect balance between eye candy and practical, inspiring content.

I dove right in with the Cinnamon Clove Pickled Peaches and Fresh Apple Chutney, and let me tell you, they were absolute winners! The peaches had this warm, spiced sweetness that paired beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, while the chutney added a tangy-sweet kick to my cheese board. The recipes are clearly written, with thoughtful details like the best salt to use and the four pickling methods—quickles, refrigerator pickles, fermentation, and salt-curing—making it easy for both beginners and seasoned preservers to succeed. I’m already eyeing the whole cranberry pickle recipe for Thanksgiving, and if it’s anything like what I’ve tried, it’ll be a game-changer for my holiday table. 

What sets Pickles, Illustrated apart is its playful vibe and cultural tidbits, like the history of Kimchi Day in Korea or the quirky tradition of pickle holiday ornaments. It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a celebration of pickle culture that’s as fun to read as it is to cook from. Whether you’re a pickle fanatic, a charcuterie enthusiast, or just someone looking to add more gut-friendly ferments to your diet, this book is a gem. It’s the kind of cookbook you’ll proudly display on your coffee table, flip through for inspiration, and gift to every foodie friend who shares your love for all things briny and delicious.You can order a copy here. It's the perfect gift for the holidays.

Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

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