Mediterranean Dill Pickle Hot Sauce
This zesty and herb-packed Mediterranean Dill Pickle Hot Sauce combines the boldness of fermented chili heat with the tang of briny dill pickles and Mediterranean aromatics. It’s perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, shawarma, roasted vegetables, or even sandwiches and wraps. Think of it as your new secret weapon condiment — bright, spicy, and totally addictive.
Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Simmer Time (if cooking): 10–15 minutes (or raw-blend version available)
Cooling Time (if cooked): 10 minutes
Yields: ~1.5 cups
Ingredients
Base:
1 cup dill pickles (chopped, with some brine)
2–3 fresh chili peppers (red Fresno, jalapeño, or serrano — adjust to heat preference)
1 garlic clove
½ cup white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
¼ cup pickle brine
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Mediterranean Flavor Boosters:
2 tbsp fresh dill (or 1 tbsp dried)
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp honey or agave (for balance)
Instructions
Blender Method (Raw & Bright)
Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender or food processor.
Blend until smooth. Add more brine or water to thin if needed.
Taste and adjust seasoning (add honey for balance if too sharp).
Pour into a clean glass jar and refrigerate. Use within 2 weeks.
Simmered Method (Milder, Richer Flavor)
In a small saucepan, combine chopped pickles, vinegar, brine, garlic, and chilies.
Simmer for 10 minutes to soften and meld flavors.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Add cooked mix, herbs, lemon juice, and oil to blender. Blend until smooth.
Store in a jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for Success
Adjust heat to taste: Remove seeds from chilies for milder sauce or use hotter varieties like Thai chilies or habaneros for more kick.
Use quality pickles: Go for real fermented pickles or artisan dill pickles — the better the brine, the better the flavor.
Consistency control: If the sauce is too thick, add more pickle brine or a splash of water or olive oil. If too thin, blend in more chopped pickles.
Let it chill: Like most hot sauces, the flavor deepens after a day in the fridge. Make it ahead if you can.
Use glass jars: For storage, glass containers are best since the vinegar and brine can react with metal or plastic.
Variations
Heat Variations
Green version: Use green chilies (jalapeño, serrano) for a tangier, grassier version.
Fermented chili twist: If you have fermented peppers, blend them in for tang and probiotic depth.
Herb Swaps
Swap dill for fresh parsley or mint for a softer herb profile.
Add fresh basil or thyme for a unique, earthy Mediterranean note.
Citrus Spin
Add orange zest for a subtle sweet-citrus twist.
Try lime juice instead of lemon for a sharper, slightly tropical finish.
Flavor Enhancers
Stir in a spoon of harissa paste or roasted red pepper for more depth.
Add a touch of mustard or horseradish for an extra zing.
Sweet Balance
Add 1 tsp of honey, maple syrup, or agave to round out the acid and spice, especially if the pickles are very salty.
Q&A
How spicy is this sauce?
It depends on the chilies you use. For mild heat, go with jalapeños or red Fresnos (with seeds removed). For more fire, try serranos or habaneros. You can always blend in more chilies later if needed.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 2 weeks in a sealed glass jar. It may last longer due to the vinegar content, but always check for spoilage or off smells.
Can I freeze this hot sauce?
Yes! Pour it into small silicone ice cube trays, freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Use within 3 months.
Can I can or preserve it for long-term storage?
Because of the vinegar and salt content, it can likely be safely water-bath canned — if proper acidity (pH < 4.6) is confirmed with a pH meter. Otherwise, stick to refrigeration or freezing.
Is this sauce vegan and gluten-free?
Yes! As long as your pickles and ingredients are free of hidden animal products or gluten, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Nutrition Info (Approximate, per tablespoon)
Calories: 10
Fat: 0.7g
Carbs: 1.3g
Sugars: 0.2g
Sodium: 85–120mg (depends on pickle brine)
Fiber: 0.2g
Protein: 0.1g
Low in calories and carbs — but high in flavor!
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Dill Pickle Hot Sauce is a bold, herby condiment that brings a uniquely briny, spicy kick to any dish. It’s fresh, fiery, and packed with character — the kind of sauce that makes a simple roasted veggie bowl or grilled chicken pop with personality.
Whether you’re layering it onto wraps, spooning it over falafel, or drizzling it on eggs, this hot sauce will quickly become your go-to jar of liquid gold. Bonus: it’s easy to customize and keeps well, so you can batch it and spice up your meals all week long.