Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar is the perfect addition to your summer meals, offering a tangy and refreshing side that complements grilled meats and heavy dishes. This quick pickle recipe, often known as refrigerator pickles, is a breeze to prepare and brings a delightful crunch and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a picnic, or looking for a simple salad to keep in the fridge, this dish checks all the boxes. In less than 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have a bowl of marinated cucumbers and onions that get better with time.
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Why Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar are Perfect for Your Meal
This Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. With just five ingredients, it’s easy to make, and it offers a burst of flavor with every bite. The combination of tangy vinegar, sweet onions, and crisp cucumbers creates a light and refreshing salad that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, fried chicken, or even a hearty potato salad. It’s an excellent dish for meal prep too, as the flavors deepen the longer they marinate, giving you a tasty side dish on hand whenever you need it.
Ingredients for Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar
Here’s what you’ll need for this quick and simple recipe:
• Cucumbers: The base of this dish, cucumbers bring crunch and freshness. English cucumbers work best, but any variety will do.
• Sweet Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the tang of the vinegar.
• Distilled White Vinegar: The star ingredient for that tangy pickle flavor. White wine vinegar is a good alternative for a more delicate taste.
• Warm Water: Helps dissolve the sugar and salt into the vinegar mixture.
• Sugar and Salt: Essential for the balance of flavors; adjust these to your preference.
Substitutions for Ingredients
If you’re looking to modify the recipe to fit your dietary preferences or available ingredients, consider these swaps:
• Cucumbers: If you prefer a more intense cucumber flavor, use Kirby cucumbers or add extra slices if you’re missing an onion.
• Onions: If sweet onions aren’t available, red onions can add a slightly sharper flavor and a burst of color.
• Vinegar: While white vinegar works great, try apple cider vinegar for a different depth of flavor.
• Sweeteners: For a sugar-free version, skip the sugar or substitute with a low-calorie sweetener.
How to Make Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar
Making this refreshing salad is simple and requires only a few easy steps:
- Whisk Together the Vinegar Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the distilled white vinegar, warm water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
- Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions: Peel the cucumbers if using regular cucumbers (English cucumbers don’t need peeling). Slice the cucumbers into thin, ⅛ to ¼-inch slices. Slice the sweet onion thinly as well.
- Marinate: Add the cucumber and onion slices to the vinegar mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Stir gently to combine.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours. The longer they marinate, the more flavor they absorb, so feel free to leave them overnight.
- Serve: Use a slotted spoon to serve the pickled cucumbers and onions, sprinkling freshly ground black pepper if desired.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar
While this recipe is simple, a few tips can take your dish to the next level:
• Check the Texture: If you prefer a softer pickle, allow the cucumbers to marinate for longer.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, adjust the sugar amount. You can also leave out the sugar entirely for a more savory flavor.
• Storage: This cucumber and onion salad lasts up to two weeks in the refrigerator, making it ideal for meal prep or preparing in advance for a gathering.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure the cucumbers and onions are fully immersed in the vinegar mixture for even marination.
Flavor Variations and Pairing Ideas
This marinated cucumber and onion salad can be paired with a variety of dishes, making it an incredibly versatile side:
• Grilled Meats: Serve alongside burgers, chicken, or grilled shrimp for a perfect summer meal.
• Fried Foods: The tangy and crunchy texture works beautifully with fried chicken or fish.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Enhance the flavor with sprigs of dill, mint, or oregano for a refreshing twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small chopped jalapeño for a spicy variation.
Why Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar Are the Ultimate Summer Dish
This quick pickle recipe is not just a side dish; it’s an experience. The balance of vinegar, sugar, and salt provides a delightful contrast to the richness of grilled meats and the comfort of fried foods. It’s also a great dish for warm weather, keeping you refreshed while providing an added crunch to your meals.
Incorporating this easy-to-make cucumber and onion salad into your summer menu will elevate your outdoor gatherings and family dinners, offering a simple yet flavorful option that everyone will enjoy. With minimal prep time and the option for variations, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar
Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar are a must-try for any summer meal or gathering. Their simplicity, tangy flavor, and satisfying crunch make them the ideal side dish to accompany a wide variety of main courses, from grilled meats to fried favorites. Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it also offers a customizable base that allows you to experiment with different variations like adding fresh herbs or spices. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a refreshing dish that is sure to please everyone at your next barbecue or family dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long do cucumber and onions in vinegar last in the fridge?
Cucumber and onions in vinegar can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The pickled cucumbers will continue to absorb the flavors of the vinegar, making them even tastier as time goes on.
2. Can I use a different type of vinegar for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute distilled white vinegar with other types of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Keep in mind that darker vinegars like red wine vinegar may discolor the cucumbers and onions slightly, but they still work great in this recipe.
3. Can I make this recipe without sugar?
Yes, you can make cucumber and onions in vinegar without sugar for a more savory version. Simply omit the sugar or use a low-calorie sweetener of your choice to suit your taste.
More Relevant Recipes
PrintCucumber and Onions in Vinegar
Cucumber and Onions in Vinegar is a refreshing, tangy, and crunchy side dish perfect for summer meals. This quick pickle recipe combines sliced cucumbers and sweet onions in a vinegar-based marinade, making it the ideal addition to barbecues, picnics, and family dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers (or 1 large English cucumber)
- 1/2 cup sweet onion slivers (about half of a small onion)
- 1/3 cup distilled white vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup very warm water
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon table salt (or 1 teaspoon Kosher salt)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk together the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
- Peel the cucumbers if using regular cucumbers, and slice them into ⅛ to ¼-inch thick slices. If using English cucumbers, no need to peel them.
- Peel and slice the onion thinly.
- Add the cucumber and onion slices to the vinegar mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or until marinated. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become.
- Serve with a slotted spoon and sprinkle with black pepper if desired.
Notes
- If you prefer a more savory pickle, you can leave out the sugar.
- Try adding fresh herbs like dill or mint to the marinade for an added burst of flavor.
- Feel free to substitute red onions for a different flavor and color.
- For extra crunch, use Kirby cucumbers or leave the seeds in if desired.
