Large Cucumber Pickles
Crisp, tangy large cucumber pickles with a sweet and spicy flavor profile, perfect for summer snacking or serving alongside sandwiches and salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour water over cucumbers and lime and soak for 24 hours.
- Rinse well. Cover with cold water and soak for 3 hours.
- Drain well.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use firm cucumbers and consider substituting white vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar slightly. Always ensure the pickling lime is fully dissolved in water before adding cucumbers to avoid any gritty texture. Soaking times are crucial, so stick to the recommended durations for optimal crispness.
Serving Suggestions
These large cucumber pickles make a fantastic addition to any charcuterie board or picnic spread. Pair them with sandwiches, like a classic deli-style pastrami or turkey, or serve alongside dishes such as potato salad or baked beans. They also complement the flavors of Apple Sauerkraut Salad beautifully for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in a cool, dark place for up to a year or refrigerate for shorter-term use. Make sure they are fully submerged in the brine to prevent spoilage. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container, and they will last for several weeks in the fridge. Reheat gently if serving warm, but they are best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Large Cucumber Pickles contains roughly 918 calories, with 19g protein, 191g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), and calcium (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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?
While this recipe is best with pickling cucumbers, you can use slicing cucumbers in a pinch. Just be aware they may not hold their crunch as well as pickling varieties. If you do use slicing cucumbers, try to pick smaller ones for better results.
How can I adjust the spice level in the pickles?
To adjust the spice level, consider adding more pickling spice or including a few crushed red pepper flakes for heat. You can also experiment with different herbs like dill or mustard seeds to enhance the flavor profile of your pickles.
What should I do if my pickles are too salty?
If your pickles turn out too salty, you can soak them in plain water for a few hours to draw out some of the saltiness. Just be sure to taste them periodically to achieve your desired flavor balance. Alternatively, you can dilute the brine with additional vinegar and sugar to balance the flavor.
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).