Pickles are a strange food. They show up on every sandwich and burger, and come on the side with almost any diner order. But for some reason the idea of making them yourself feels odd. Most probably because in most people's minds, pickles are associated with months of fermentation and a lot of shelf space. But you can make fresh-from-the-cucumber pickles in the microwave in less than 10 minutes. True fact.

Bonus: It's easy enough to do with kids.

The recipe: Homemade microwave pickles

What you need

1 large cucumber, sliced
1 tsp salt
1 onion, thinly sliced
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
1 cup of sugar
1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
1/4 tsp ground turmeric

How to do it

1. Mix sugar, vinegar, turmeric, and mustard seeds in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add the cucumber and onion. Mix.
3. Microwave your concoction for 2 minutes and 30 seconds.
4. Stir.
5. Microwave two more times for 2 minutes and 30 seconds, mixing in between.
6. Cover, and chill.

Now just add burgers.