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Pickled Cucumber Recipe

4.8 from 128 reviews

A quick and easy Pickled Cucumber recipe that combines thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions with a tangy, sweet, and mildly spicy vinegar brine. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or condiment to complement a variety of meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Pickling Brine

  • 1¼ cups white vinegar
  • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon celery seed
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 2 large thinly sliced fresh cucumbers
  • 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 4 sprigs fresh dill (dill fronds only, stalks trimmed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Brine: Add the white vinegar, granulated sugar, kosher salt, celery seed, and red pepper flakes to a 2 to 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat and let the vinegar mixture cool for 10 to 15 minutes until completely cooled.
  2. Layer the Vegetables: In a quart canning jar, alternate layers of thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, and fresh dill fronds. This layering allows the flavors to meld and ensures even pickling.
  3. Combine and Marinate: Slowly pour the cooled vinegar mixture over the layered cucumbers and onions in the jar. Seal or cover the jar and allow the salad to marinate at room temperature for at least 15 minutes before serving for optimal flavor absorption.

Notes

  • For a crisper pickle, use fresh cucumbers that are firm and not overripe.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
  • These pickled cucumbers are best consumed within a week when stored in the refrigerator.
  • You can refrigerate the pickles to serve them chilled, which enhances their refreshing taste.

Keywords: pickled cucumbers, cucumber salad, quick pickles, easy pickled vegetables, pickled onions, fresh dill pickles