Mama's Pickled Onions and Cucumber

Tangy, crisp, and irresistibly fresh, Mama's Pickled Onions and Cucumber is a quick and easy recipe that elevates any dish with vibrant flavors and crunchy textures. This classic combination of thinly sliced red onion and crisp cucumber is infused with a tangy brine made from white vinegar, water, a touch of sugar, and a hint of salt—perfectly balanced with the subtle aromatics of garlic and peppercorns. Optional fresh dill adds an herby twist for extra brightness. Ready in just 15 minutes of prep time, this versatile recipe is perfect as a side dish, a garnish for sandwiches and burgers, or a zesty topping for salads. With simple ingredients and bold results, this refrigerator pickling recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 large Red onion
• 1 medium Cucumber
• 1 cup White vinegar
• 1 cup Water
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 whole Garlic clove
• 1 teaspoon Peppercorns
• 2 sprigs Fresh dill (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Peel and thinly slice the red onion into rings or half-moons, depending on your preference.

Step 2

Slice the cucumber into thin rounds. If desired, you may peel the cucumber, but leaving the peel on adds texture and color.

Step 3

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, and salt. Heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved (approximately 3-5 minutes). Do not let it boil.

Step 4

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the brine cool slightly while preparing the jars or container.

Step 5

In a clean, sealable jar or container, layer the sliced onions and cucumbers. Tuck in the garlic clove, peppercorns, and fresh dill sprigs (if using) in between the layers.

Step 6

Pour the warm brine over the onions and cucumbers, ensuring they are completely submerged. Use a spoon or spatula to press down and remove any air pockets.

Step 7

Seal the jar or container and let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator.

Step 8

Allow the pickled onions and cucumbers to marinate for at least 2 hours before serving for the best flavor. They taste even better after 24 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(866.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	238.5

Total Fat 0.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 0.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2383.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 48.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.2g	0%
Total Sugars 34.8g
Protein 3.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 115.8mg	0%
Iron 1.5mg	0%
Potassium 740.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 2.1%

Protein: 6.5%

Carbs: 91.4%