Crispy Pickled Red Onions and Cucumbers
Crispy Pickled Red Onions and Cucumbers are a refreshing and tangy addition to any meal. This easy recipe combines the vibrant colors of red onions and cucumbers with a simple pickling solution, creating a crunchy and flavorful side dish. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just looking to spice up your everyday meals, these pickled veggies are perfect for brightening up your plate.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Crispy Pickled Red Onions and Cucumbers is not just about flavor—it’s also about adding a burst of color and texture to your dishes. These pickles are easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and are great for meal prep. Plus, they pair well with sandwiches, salads, and grilled meats. You can enjoy them as a healthy snack or as a vibrant topping for your favorite dishes.
How to Make Crispy Pickled Red Onions and Cucumbers
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon peppercorns
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- Place the sliced onions and cucumbers in a jar or container.
- Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve chilled as a side dish to your favorite summer meals.
How to Serve Crispy Pickled Red Onions and Cucumbers
You can serve Crispy Pickled Red Onions and Cucumbers as a delightful side dish or topping. They are perfect on sandwiches and tacos, or as a crunchy addition to salads. Try them with grilled meats or seafood to add a zesty kick. You can also enjoy them straight from the jar as a healthy snack!
How to Store Crispy Pickled Red Onions and Cucumbers
To store your pickles, keep them in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to two weeks. Make sure the vegetables are submerged in the pickling liquid to keep them crispy and flavorful.
Tips to Make Crispy Pickled Red Onions and Cucumbers
- For extra crunch, use fresh, firm cucumbers.
- Feel free to adjust the sugar and spice levels to suit your taste. If you like more heat, add additional red pepper flakes.
- Experiment with adding other spices like dill or mustard seeds for varied flavors.
Variation (if any)
You can easily modify this recipe by adding other vegetables like carrots or radishes. You can also try different vinegars, such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, for a unique taste.
FAQs
1. How long do the pickled onions and cucumbers last?
They can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.
2. Can I use other types of onions?
Yes, you can use white or yellow onions, but red onions give the best color and flavor for this pickling recipe.
3. Is it necessary to refrigerate the pickles?
Yes, refrigeration helps keep them crisp and preserves their flavor. Always store pickles in the fridge for the best results.
