Summer Snackin'--Make Your Own Pickles

 Two years ago, a family friend brought homemade pickles to our Christmas Eve party and they were ba-na-nas (they were cucumbers, but you know what I mean). I have been thinking about them randomly ever since, because they were the best pickles I've ever had, so when I saw this recipe on the A Beautiful Mess blog I (talked incessantly about it for a week & then) jumped on it.  You'll need: veggies to pickle (I was boring and stuck with cucumbers), peppercorns, dill sprigs, 1 cup white vinegar, 2 tsp salt, 1 tbs sugar, 1 cup water. I also added peeled & halved garlic cloves to 2 of my jars & seeded, sliced serrano peppers to one jar, just for some added kick.  1. slice veggies & throw in jars.2. add a few dill sprigs & a small handful of peppercorns to each jar. add garlic & peppers if desired.3. mix water, vinegar, sugar & salt together then pour over veggies. seal, throw in the fridge overnight, et voila! they get more & more flavorful as time goes on, but I couldn't wait more than a day. Enjoy as a snack or on a yummy sandwich--I certainly have been. Thanks to Emma for the recipe!xo Charity