Iceberg Cucumber Pickle
Crisp, tangy pickles with a hint of spice and sweetness, perfect for adding zest to sandwiches or enjoying as a refreshing snack with a crunchy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers and mix with lime water; let stand for 24 hours.
- Stir occasionally during the lime water soaking period.
- Wash thoroughly and place in ice water for 3 hours.
- Rinse the cucumbers again after soaking in ice water.
- Place cucumbers in an enamel cooker.
- Mix sugar and vinegar together and pour over cucumbers; let set overnight.
- Put the spices in a cheesecloth bag and tie up so the spices won't be all through the pickles.
- Let the spices soak in with the cucumbers, sugar, and vinegar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crisper pickle, ensure the cucumbers are fresh and firm. You can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 3 lb. or use a sugar substitute. Stir the cucumbers in lime water gently to prevent bruising. Consider adding a pinch of turmeric for color.
Serving Suggestions
These Iceberg Cucumber Pickles are a delightful addition to any picnic or barbecue. Serve them alongside sandwiches or as a crunchy topping for burgers. They pair wonderfully with dishes like Polish Stewed Cabbage and make a refreshing side for summer salads. Consider offering them as part of a charcuterie board for a burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to a month. If you plan to keep them longer, consider canning them using proper methods. To enjoy cold, serve straight from the fridge. If you prefer them warm, gently heat them in a saucepan, but avoid boiling to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Iceberg Cucumber Pickle contains roughly 1970 calories, with 38g protein, 451g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (636% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2974mg per serving (129% 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 types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while traditional pickling cucumbers are best for their crunch, you can use other varieties such as English cucumbers. Just ensure they are firm and not overripe to achieve the best texture.
How can I adjust the spice levels in the pickles?
You can modify the spice blend according to your preference. Adding more cloves or incorporating crushed red pepper flakes can increase heat. Alternatively, reduce the spices for a milder flavor.
What can I do if I find the pickles too sweet?
If the pickles turn out sweeter than desired, you can balance the flavor by adding a touch more salt or mixing in a bit of vinegar. This can help cut through the sweetness and enhance the overall taste.
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).