Salt-preserved vegetables, such as pickles, are made by __________ the vegetables in a brine solution of salt and vinegar. 

Salt-preserved vegetables, such as pickles, are made by brining the vegetables in a solution of salt and vinegar. Brining is the process of soaking food in a saltwater solution or a solution containing vinegar or other acids, which helps to preserve the food by inhibiting the growth of bacteria. In the case of pickles, the brine solution typically contains salt, vinegar, and other seasonings, which give the pickles their distinctive flavor. The brine solution works by creating an environment that is inhospitable to bacteria, which can cause food spoilage. The pickles are left to soak in the brine solution for a period of time, which allows the flavors to develop and the vegetables to become tender.