Overnight Pickles

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

Craving a tangy, sweet, and crunchy pickle that pairs well with sandwiches and salads? These overnight pickles are quick to prepare and perfect for a flavorful snack.

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Ingredients

  • 6 cups thinly sliced cucumbers (skin on)
  • 1 large onion, sliced thin
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons salt
  • 1 cup vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon celery seed

Instructions

  1. Heat the mixture until the sugar is dissolved.
  2. Pour the hot mixture over the sliced cucumbers and onions in a large bowl.
  3. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
  4. Transfer the pickles into jars the next day.
  5. Keep refrigerated; they will keep well for months.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, use fresh, firm cucumbers and consider slicing them with a mandoline for uniform thickness. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar by one-third. You can also substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. Adding a few sprigs of dill can enhance the pickle flavor, reminiscent of classic American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

These overnight pickles are a perfect crunchy side for sandwiches or burgers and pair beautifully with our favorite bread. Serve them alongside grilled meats or as part of a vegetable toss at your next barbecue. They also make a refreshing addition to a charcuterie board, adding a tangy contrast to rich cheeses.

Storage & Reheating

Store the pickles in airtight jars in the refrigerator. They will last for several months when kept cold. The flavors will continue to develop over time, so feel free to taste them after a week for a stronger taste. Ensure the cucumbers are fully submerged in the brine to maintain their crispness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Overnight Pickles contains roughly 376 calories, with 4g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), and potassium (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1754mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).

376 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.7g 7% DV
Total Fat 1g 1% DV
Carbs 73.7g 27% DV
Fiber 3g 11% DV
Sugar 57.1g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1753.7mg 76% DV
Potassium 804.4mg 17% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 20.4mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 16.7mg 19% DV
Calcium 147.5mg 11% DV
Iron 3.3mg 19% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 in this recipe?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the mix. Just ensure they are sliced thinly for even pickling. Experimenting with different veggies can create unique flavor combinations and textures.

How long do the pickles need to sit before they're ready?

While the pickles can be enjoyed after just one night in the refrigerator, they taste best after at least three days. This allows the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to absorb the brine fully for optimal taste.

Can I make these pickles spicy?

Absolutely! For a spicy twist, add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the brine. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference. This can elevate the flavor profile and make the pickles an exciting addition to any dish.

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).

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