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Quick Fresh Pickled Cucumber and Red Onion Salad

quick fresh pickled cucumber and red onion salad - featured image
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A quick and easy homemade summer side salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and red onions pickled in a tangy vinegar mixture with fresh herbs. Perfect for adding a crisp, refreshing burst of flavor to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium cucumbers (about 500g / 1 lb), thinly sliced
  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup (120ml) white vinegar (can substitute apple cider vinegar)
  • ½ cup (120ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill (optional but recommended)
  • 1 small garlic clove, smashed (optional)

Instructions

  1. Thinly slice 2 medium cucumbers and 1 medium red onion to about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thickness using a sharp knife or mandoline.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup white vinegar, ½ cup water, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Warm over medium heat, stirring until sugar and salt dissolve completely (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and onions. Toss in 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns, 1 smashed garlic clove (if using), and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill.
  4. Pour the warm pickling liquid over the vegetables and stir gently to coat evenly.
  5. Transfer the mixture into a glass jar or airtight container. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing the lid.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving; flavors improve after a few hours or overnight.
  7. Before serving, stir the salad and adjust seasoning if needed with extra salt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Notes

Use a mandoline for uniform thin slices to ensure even pickling and better texture. Warm the pickling liquid to dissolve sugar and salt faster and soften the veggies slightly. The salad tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight. Drain excess liquid before serving if cucumbers are watery. Adjust vinegar and water ratio to control tanginess. Fresh dill is recommended for best flavor but can be substituted with mint or basil.

Nutrition

Keywords: pickled cucumber salad, red onion salad, quick pickle recipe, summer side dish, fresh cucumber salad, easy pickle salad, homemade pickles

Find it online: https://yumbelle.com/quick-fresh-pickled-cucumber-and-red-onion-salad-recipe-easy-homemade-summer-side/