Fresh Cucumber Delight
Crisp, tangy cucumber pickles with onion and garlic, perfect for snacking or as a refreshing side, offering a balanced mix of vinegar, sweetness, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a pot and bring to a boil. Set aside to cool.
- Wash, peel, and slice cucumbers thick.
- Place sliced onion and chopped garlic in a quart jar.
- Add the sliced cucumbers to the jar and fill to the top.
- Pour the cooled vinegar mixture over the cucumbers and close the jar.
- Refrigerate for 3 days before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like dill or mint into the jar. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, you can increase the sugar to 1.5 cups. Ensure the cucumbers are fresh and firm for the best crunch, and feel free to substitute red onions for a milder taste. This recipe can be adjusted for lower sugar by using a sugar substitute for those looking for vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pickled cucumbers as a refreshing side to grilled meats or sandwiches. They pair beautifully with Easy Texas Sheet Cake for a delightful contrast. For a light lunch, add them to a salad or serve them alongside cheese and crackers. They can also be a great topping for tacos or burgers.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickled cucumbers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Ensure the jar is sealed tightly to maintain freshness. These pickles are best enjoyed chilled and do not require reheating. They can be served directly from the jar, making them a convenient option for meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fresh Cucumber Delight contains roughly 378 calories, with 8g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2115mg per serving (92% 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, you can use different varieties of cucumbers such as English cucumbers or pickling cucumbers. English cucumbers are typically longer and have fewer seeds, while pickling cucumbers are smaller and crunchier, making them ideal for pickling. Choose whichever type you prefer for the best results.
How can I adjust the flavor of the pickles?
You can adjust the flavor by varying the amount of sugar or vinegar to suit your taste. Adding spices like mustard seeds, peppercorns, or red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavor profile. If you enjoy a tangy kick, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of horseradish for an extra punch.
How long do these pickles need to marinate?
These cucumbers should marinate in the refrigerator for at least three days to develop the best flavor. This allows the cucumbers to absorb the vinegar mixture fully. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can leave them for a week, but they are usually ready to enjoy after the initial three days.
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).