P.D.Q. Pickles
Tangy and sweet pickles with cucumbers and onions, infused with aromatic spices, perfect as a refreshing condiment or snack for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tie the mixed pickling spices in a cheesecloth bag.
- In a saucepan, combine the spice bag, vinegar, sugar, salt, and turmeric; bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Pour the hot mixture over the sliced cucumbers and onions; cool to room temperature.
- Store in a covered container in the refrigerator, removing the spice bag after 1 day.
Tips & Substitutions
For a zesty twist, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brine for some heat. If you're short on time, substitute the fresh cucumbers with store-bought pickles, but for best flavor, use fresh ingredients. Make sure to let the mixture cool completely before adding the cucumbers and onions to maintain their crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These P.D.Q. Pickles are a fantastic accompaniment to sandwiches or burgers, adding a crunchy contrast. They pair beautifully with Easiest Grape Punch for a summer picnic or backyard barbecue. Consider serving them alongside a Cold Yellow Rice Salad for a light, refreshing meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 2-3 weeks. For best flavor, consume them within the first week. Do not reheat; these pickles are meant to be enjoyed cold as a refreshing side dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of P.D.Q. Pickles contains roughly 139 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (93% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg per serving (76% 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! You can experiment with other vegetables such as carrots, radishes, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are sliced thinly to absorb the brine effectively. Adjust the pickling spices to suit the flavor profile of the vegetables you choose.
How long do these pickles need to sit before eating?
While they can be enjoyed after cooling to room temperature, allowing them to sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours enhances their flavor. The longer they sit, the more pronounced the pickling flavors will be.
What should I do if the cucumbers become soft?
To prevent soft cucumbers, ensure they are fresh and crisp before pickling. If they do soften, it may be due to over-pickling. Store them in the refrigerator promptly and enjoy them sooner to maintain their texture. You can also try using pickling cucumbers for a firmer result.
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).