Pickled Cucumbers
Crisp, tangy pickled cucumbers with a hint of sweetness and onion flavor, perfect for snacking or adding to salads. These homemade pickles are quick to prepare and provide a satisfying crunch with a balanced vinegar-sugar brine that suits all taste preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cucumbers, onions, and salt in a large bowl.
- Let stand for 2 hours.
- Drain and rinse well.
- Mix vinegar and sugar until dissolved.
- Combine cucumbers and vinegar mixture.
- Put into containers and freeze.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter pickled cucumber, consider adding more sugar or trying a honey substitute. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes or mustard seeds to the vinegar mixture. Make sure to use fresh cucumbers for the best crunch. If you're short on time, you can skip the draining step after salting, but it may result in a slightly saltier pickle.
Serving Suggestions
These pickled cucumbers make a delightful side dish for barbecues or picnics, pairing well with grilled meats or sandwiches. They also complement salads beautifully, adding a tangy crunch. For a refreshing drink, serve alongside Hot Nectar Tea or Rose Wine Punch for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickled cucumbers in airtight containers in the freezer for up to six months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For best taste and texture, consume them within the first month after freezing. Do not refreeze once they have been thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pickled Cucumbers contains roughly 238 calories, with 2g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 937mg per serving (41% 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! This pickling method works well with other vegetables like carrots, radishes, or green beans. Just adjust the pickling time based on the vegetable's firmness. Experimenting with different veggies can lead to exciting new flavors.
How long do these pickled cucumbers last?
When stored properly in the freezer, pickled cucumbers can last up to six months. Once thawed, consume them within a month for the best flavor and texture. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I make these pickles without sugar?
Yes, you can omit the sugar for a low-calorie version or substitute it with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol. Keep in mind that this will alter the flavor profile, making the pickles more tart.
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).