why make this recipe
Quick Pickled Cucumber & Red Onion is a simple and flavorful dish that brightens up any meal. It offers a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors that can enhance sandwiches, salads, and grilled meats. Plus, making pickles at home is easy and allows you to customize the taste to your liking.
how to make Quick Pickled Cucumber & Red Onion
Ingredients :
- 1/2 medium red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 large English cucumber (about 12 inches long, thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
- 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
Directions :
- Thinly slice the red onion and English cucumber. The thinner the slices, the better they will absorb the pickling liquid.
- Wash and sterilize a clean pint-sized jar by immersing it in boiling water for a few minutes. Drain and let it cool slightly.
- Pack the cucumber slices and red onion rings into the prepared jar. Sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the vegetables.
- In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, whole peppercorns, and salt. Stir well.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat slightly and simmer for 5 minutes, ensuring the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Carefully pour the warm brine into the jar, ensuring all the vegetables are submerged.
- Let the jar cool on the counter to room temperature. Seal with the lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. For best flavor, allow to pickle for a day.
how to serve Quick Pickled Cucumber & Red Onion
These pickles are great as a side dish, topping for tacos, or an addition to salads. You can also serve them on sandwiches or alongside grilled meats for a refreshing crunch. Their zesty flavor will enhance any dish.
how to store Quick Pickled Cucumber & Red Onion
Once prepared, store the pickles in the refrigerator. They will last for about 2 weeks. Just make sure the vegetables remain submerged in the brine to keep them fresh.
tips to make Quick Pickled Cucumber & Red Onion
- Use a mandoline slicer for even thinner slices.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- For a milder pickle, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount used.
variation
You can add other spices such as dill seeds or garlic cloves for additional flavor. Substituting different vinegars, like rice vinegar, can also change the taste profile for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. How long do these pickles last?
They can last for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly.
2. Can I use a different type of cucumber?
Yes, you can use other varieties, but English cucumbers are preferred for their crispness.
3. How spicy are these pickles?
The spice level can be adjusted by changing the amount of red pepper flakes you use. Start with a smaller amount if you want less heat.
