Ruth Clark Pickles
Crisp, tangy pickles with a sweet and vinegary flavor, enhanced by celery seed and pepper, perfect as a snack or condiment for a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers and onions thin.
- Combine with salt in a large bowl; weight with a plate.
- Let stand overnight.
- Next day, drain off liquid, but do not rinse.
- Heat until warm.
- Mix sugar, vinegar, pepper, and celery seed.
- Pour over pickles and let stand overnight.
- Pour into jars and store in refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use fresh cucumbers and onions. If you prefer a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brine. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference, and try adding a few cloves of garlic for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
These pickles make a fantastic accompaniment to sandwiches, burgers, or as a snack on their own. They pair beautifully with the Down East BBQ Sauce for a delicious barbecue spread. Serve alongside charcuterie boards or as a zesty topping for salads, like Ruth'S Cucumber Chow Chow.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in airtight jars in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 2-3 weeks. To enjoy them chilled, simply take them out of the fridge before serving. There's no need to reheat these pickles, as they are best served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruth Clark Pickles contains roughly 191 calories, with 5g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 pickle recipe?
Yes, you can experiment by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even radishes. Just ensure they are sliced thinly to match the cucumbers for even pickling.
How long should I let the pickles sit before eating?
It's best to let the pickles sit for at least 24 hours after pouring the brine over them to allow the flavors to develop fully. However, they can be enjoyed even sooner, just remember that the flavor will intensify over time.
Can I can these pickles for long-term storage?
This recipe is intended for refrigerator pickles, which do not require canning. If you want to preserve them for longer, consider following a proper canning method to ensure safety and longevity.
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).