The Zesty Liquid You Should Spritz Over Salad For A Huge Flavor Upgrade

When you're in the mood for a refreshing yet flavorful salad, dressing is often the ingredient you rely on to create a delicious meal. However, beyond dousing your favorite salad in homemade ranch, you might want to finish with just one more ingredient to give your veggies an extra boost of flavor. Since pickle brine is the ultimate flavor shortcut for sauteed vegetables, you better believe this zesty juice can enhance all kinds of crisp salads as well. A spritz or two of pickle brine can add both acidity and salt to your next dish, without imparting an overpowering pickle flavor.

Pickle brine is usually a combination of vinegar, water, and salt. Depending on the type of pickles you enjoy eating, the juice can include a wide variety of flavorings including peppercorns, dill, and garlic, or it might be on the sweeter side. Either way, just prepare your salad as usual, toss the ingredients in your preferred dressing, then give your pickles (and brine) a solid stir to drum up any extra seasonings along the bottom of the jar. From there, simply add a spoonful or two of brine and mix. This simple addition amplifies the flavors of any salad in a snap. However, keep in mind that certain salad recipes complement this tangy ingredient more than others.

When using pickle brine, choose salads that already pack a flavorful punch, such as a Greek-inspired salad made with Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and crisp tomatoes. An Italian chopped salad dressed up with savory salami, mozzarella balls, and pepperoncini peppers might also benefit from an added spritz of tangy pickle juice. This flavorful liquid can also upgrade a basic assortment of greens, and amplify the taste of fresh herbs in your dressing or as a garnish.

Since there are many types of pickles available at your neighborhood grocery store, dill-based brine might be your best bet. Dill pickle brine has a versatile flavor that compliments a wide range of salad ingredients. Conversely, if your next plate of greens includes sweeter elements like fresh or dried fruit, add a spritz of bread and butter pickle brine. In comparison to dill brine, bread and butter pickles are made with added sugar for a sweeter bite. 

For spicier recipes such as chickpea, feta, and spicy red onion salad, consider using a spicy brine. This will also balance out components like creamy cheese, mayonnaise, or Greek yogurt. While you can still give your salad dressing a briny kick with a splash of pickle juice, a final sprinkle of the liquid over your salad gives your entire meal extra flavor.