Quick Cucumber Slices
A crisp, refreshing cucumber and onion salad with a tangy sweet-sour flavor, perfect for summer gatherings or as a cool side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cucumbers, onions, and salt in a bowl; cover with ice cubes and let stand for 1 to 3 hours; drain well.
- Mix sugar, celery seed, and vinegar until dissolved.
- Pour the mixture over the drained cucumbers and onions.
- Place in a jar, cover, and refrigerate.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider adding a tablespoon of dill or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. If you're short on cucumbers, you can substitute with zucchini slices. To enhance the flavor, let the mixture marinate overnight before serving. Adjust the sugar level based on your sweetness preference, or use a sugar substitute for a lighter version, perfect for those following vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These quick cucumber slices are a fantastic side dish for summer barbecues or picnics, pairing beautifully with Orange-Glazed Ham. Serve them atop grilled meats or alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast. They also make a great snack on their own or as a crunchy topping for sandwiches.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making them even tastier. Avoid freezing as the texture of the cucumbers may become mushy. Serve chilled directly from the fridge for the best taste and crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Cucumber Slices contains roughly 333 calories, with 4g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1913mg per serving (83% 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 different types of vinegar for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar like apple cider or rice vinegar for varied flavors. Each type will impart its unique taste to the cucumbers and onions, so feel free to choose one that suits your palate.
How long do these cucumber slices last in the fridge?
These quick cucumber slices can last up to a week when stored properly in the refrigerator. The pickling process helps preserve them, but they are best enjoyed within the first few days for maximum crunch and flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making these cucumber slices a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store them in a sealed container in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
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).