This unexpected ingredient makes everything taste better

But you're probably pouring it down the sink. - by Jane Pine

Next time you’ve gone through a bottle of pickles, don’t toss the leftover liquid down the sink.

This salty, spicy vinegar is packed with flavour and it can be used to take a number of dishes to the next level.

Basically, if any recipe calls for vinegar, replace it with pickling liquid for a taste sensation.

Pickles

Getty

Here are our five favourite ways to use leftover pickling liquid.

1. Add pickling liquid to chopped and smashed cucumbers for a tasty side dish.

2. Use the liquid as a simple dressing for a green salad.

3. Drizzle roasted potatoes with a tablespoon of pickling liquid then season with salt and pepper.

4. Add a dash of liquid to a potato salad for extra zest.

5. Splash some liquid on a platter of sliced ripe tomatoes for a spicy vinaigrette.

RELATED: Savoury zucchini pancakes topped with bacon, basil and balsamic vinegar

RELATED: Leftover chicken salad with quick pickle

Jane Pine

Jane Pine is a digital content editor and has worked in magazines for over 20 years. She's a diehard DIY fan and can't go past a good Ikea hack.