Cocktail Pickles
Crisp, sweet and tangy pickled cucumbers with a zesty brine, perfect as a snack or condiment for summer meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak sliced cucumbers in water and lime for 24 hours.
- Rinse in cold water and drain.
- Let stand in cold water for 3 hours and drain off.
- Pour a syrup made of sugar, vinegar, mustard seed, celery seed, and salt over the cucumbers and let stand overnight.
- Put the mixture on the stove and cook for 30 minutes.
- Seal while hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, ensure you soak the cucumbers in the hydrated lime solution for the full 24 hours, then rinse thoroughly to remove excess lime. If you prefer a less sweet pickle, reduce the sugar by a cup or substitute with a sugar alternative. Mustard and celery seeds can be adjusted to taste or replaced with dill seeds for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These cocktail pickles are a delightful appetizer or snack, perfect for parties. They pair beautifully with Jim'S Venison Jerky (Beef) and can be served alongside cheese platters or charcuterie boards. For a full meal, complement them with a light salad or sandwiches, such as a classic BLT.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cocktail pickles in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a month. If you want to preserve them longer, consider sealing them in sterilized jars using a hot water bath method. They can be served cold straight from the jar without reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cocktail Pickles contains roughly 986 calories, with 16g protein, 220g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (230% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value), and potassium (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1817mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while slicing cucumbers are preferred for their crunch, you can also use pickling cucumbers or even small cucumbers for bite-sized pieces. Just adjust the soaking time if necessary to ensure they remain crisp.
How long do these pickles stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, these cocktail pickles can last up to a month. If you choose to can them, they can be kept for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I make these pickles spicy?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes or whole chili peppers to the syrup for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your heat preference, and consider tasting the syrup before pouring it over the cucumbers to find the right balance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).