Cucumber Pickles
Cucumber pickles offer a crisp, tangy flavor with sweetness from sugar and a hint of spice from cloves and pickling spices. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a zesty condiment, these homemade pickles are a delightful addition to any meal or snack platter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut cucumbers, unpeeled, into 3/8-inch slices.
- Dissolve pickling lime in cold water.
- Soak cucumbers in the lime solution for 24 hours.
- Rinse cucumbers well and soak in clear water for 3 hours.
- Dissolve sugar in vinegar and add salt, cloves, celery seed, and pickling spices.
- Soak cucumbers in the vinegar solution overnight.
- Cook on stove for 35 minutes or until slices are clear.
- Put in hot jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal crispness, select fresh, firm cucumbers and avoid overripe ones. If pickling lime is unavailable, you can use a saltwater brine instead, though it may alter the texture. Consider adding a touch of garlic or dill for extra flavor. Ensure to rinse cucumbers thoroughly to eliminate any lingering lime taste before soaking them in the vinegar solution.
Serving Suggestions
These cucumber pickles make a perfect accompaniment to barbecue dishes or sandwiches, especially with a Sunday Steak. Try them on a charcuterie board for a delightful contrast. They also pair wonderfully with rich and creamy dishes, enhancing flavors and providing a refreshing crunch. Enjoy them alongside a Michigan Cherry Torte for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in a cool, dark place, ideally in a pantry or cellar. Once opened, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last for several months. For serving, simply enjoy them straight from the jar or as a tangy addition to sandwiches and burgers. Reheat gently if using in dishes that require warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Pickles contains roughly 924 calories, with 20g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value), and potassium (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2762mg per serving (120% 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 other vegetables for pickling?
Absolutely! While cucumbers are traditional, you can experiment with other vegetables like carrots, radishes, or green beans. Just adjust the soaking time based on the vegetable's texture to ensure they maintain their crunch.
How long do these pickles last?
When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark location, these pickles can last for up to a year. After opening, keep them refrigerated to maintain freshness, and consume within 1-2 months for the best flavor.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the pickles?
Yes, you can modify the sugar amount to suit your taste. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar by half or replace it with a sugar substitute. Just note that this may alter the final flavor and texture slightly.
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).