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Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad — Crunchy, Tangy & Addictive!
This quick-pickled cucumber salad is a refreshing and tangy snack, perfect as a light side dish or sandwich topper. It gets better the longer it sits and can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 months (though it rarely lasts that long!). This recipe yields about 2 quarts — ideal for meal prep or sharing.
For more vibrant salad inspiration, check out the Best Refrigerator Pickles Guide and this roundup of Summer Salad Jars for more mason jar magic.
Ingredients
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4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
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1 small red or white onion, thinly sliced
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1 cup white vinegar
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½ cup water
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2 tbsp sugar
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp garlic powder
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Fresh dill, chopped (optional for herbal flavor)
Directions
1. Prep the Vegetables
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Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers and onion.
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Place them evenly into two clean quart-sized mason jars.
2. Make the Brine
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In a medium bowl, whisk together white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) until the sugar dissolves completely.
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3. Combine
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Pour the brine over the cucumbers and onions, making sure they are fully submerged.
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Add a sprinkle of fresh dill if desired.
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Seal jars tightly and shake gently to mix.
4. Refrigerate
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Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving for optimal flavor. Best after 24 hours.
Storage
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Keep sealed in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
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Shake the jar gently every few days to redistribute the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
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Use as a topping for sandwiches, hot dogs, or burgers.
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Pair with grilled meats or roasted veggies.
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Enjoy straight from the jar as a snack!
Variations
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Swap white vinegar for apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tang.
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Add sliced radishes or carrot matchsticks for crunch and color.
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Stir in mustard seeds or celery seed for a more pickled profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use English cucumbers or pickling cucumbers?
A: Yes, both work great! Just slice thinly.
Q: Can I use stevia or a sugar substitute?
A: Absolutely. Use a sugar replacement that can dissolve in liquid — adjust to taste.
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Q: Do I need to sterilize the jars?
A: No need for full sterilization since it’s a refrigerator pickle, but make sure your jars are clean and dry.
Prep & Storage Time
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Chill time: 2+ hours (24 hours recommended)
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Total time: ~10 minutes active
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Yield: 2 quarts (about 16 servings)
This Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad is the kind of recipe that brings brightness to any plate. It’s crisp, zesty, and totally addictive!