Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad (Refrigerator Pickles)
Introduction
This Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad is one of those recipes that only gets better with time—crisp, tangy, and refreshing. It’s the kind of snack you keep in the fridge “just in case,” but somehow it never lasts long enough to reach its full two-month potential! Perfect as a light snack, side dish, or crunchy topping, this recipe makes 2 quarts of irresistible goodness.
Ingredients Quantity
4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp mustard seeds (optional but recommended)
Instructions
Place the sliced cucumbers and onions into two clean quart-size jars or a large glass container.
In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, and mustard seeds.
Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. Do not boil.
Carefully pour the warm pickling liquid over the cucumbers and onions, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate.
Allow the salad to sit for at least 24 hours before eating—flavor improves with time.
Origin
Pickled cucumber salads have roots in European and American home kitchens, where vinegar preservation was commonly used to extend the life of fresh vegetables before refrigeration became widespread.
Cultural Significance
This dish represents practical home cooking—simple ingredients, minimal effort, and long-lasting flavor. It’s a staple at potlucks, summer cookouts, and family dinners, passed down through generations for its ease and reliability.
Description
Crisp cucumber slices and tender onions soak in a sweet-tangy vinegar brine, creating a refreshing crunch with every bite. Light, zesty, and addictive, this salad is perfect straight from the jar.
Optional Additions
Fresh dill or dill seeds
Red pepper flakes for heat
Garlic cloves for bold flavor
Apple cider vinegar for a deeper tang
Thinly sliced bell peppers for color and sweetness
Tips for Success
Use firm, fresh cucumbers for maximum crunch
Slice evenly so the vegetables pickle uniformly
Glass containers work best—avoid metal
The longer it sits, the better the flavor gets
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 45
Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugar: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 0g
(Values may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Conclusion
This Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad proves that simple recipes can be the most memorable. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a refrigerator staple you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Recommendation
Enjoy it as a snack, serve it alongside grilled meats, add it to sandwiches, or spoon it over rice bowls for a refreshing crunch.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Low in calories and packed with hydration, this salad offers a guilt-free way to satisfy salty-sweet cravings while still enjoying wholesome, fresh ingredients.
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