We Tried Every Dill Pickle at the Grocery Store. These Are the Best

This vinegary pick reminded us of the spears we grew up eating. There isn’t a ton of complex flavor, but every single bite made us nostalgic for summer nights and hamburgers. Best of all, the interior is far less rubbery than other neon green, shelf-stable options.

True to its name, this jar tastes like it came straight from an old-fashioned sandwich shop. Its mild flavor is equal parts sour, garlicky, sweet and briny. Although the spears could have been crunchier, we think they’d pair just fine with a giant tuna melt and Diet Coke.

Pickled in apple cider vinegar instead of traditional distilled vinegar, these bad boys are impossible to resist. They pack some serious tangy heat, thanks to red chile peppers in the mix. Sure, they’re not as versatile as plain dill pickles, but they’re pretty damn good for snacking.

These pickles have a secret. They live in the refrigerated section of the grocery store. And compared with most shelf-stable brands, they’re way crunchier. In addition to the superior texture, these little guys embody the perfect “dill pickle” flavor we crave: salty and vinegary on the one hand, sour and garlicky on the other.

And the gold metal goes to…the most impeccable pickle in the universe, Claussen Kosher Dill Spears. By far the crispest and crunchiest we tasted, our winner has a balanced, vinegary flavor and subtle spices. It’s delicious as a simple snack but also stands up to a juicy cheeseburger—or a spicy Bloody Mary. Head to the deli section of your grocery store to stock up.