Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad

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🥒 Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad Recipe

📝 Ingredients:

  • 2 large cucumbers (English or Persian work best)

  • 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar (or white vinegar)

  • 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional but recommended)

  • 1 tsp sesame seeds or chili flakes (optional, for garnish)

🍴 Instructions with Q&A

Step 1: Slice the Cucumbers

Q: Should I peel the cucumbers?
A: Not necessarily. If you’re using English or Persian cucumbers, the skin is thin and mild, so no need to peel. If using thick-skinned cucumbers, you can peel partially or fully.

Q: How should I slice them?
A: Thinly and evenly—about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a mandoline for precision or a sharp knife.

Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers

Sprinkle the cucumber slices with a pinch of salt and let them sit in a colander for 10–15 minutes. This draws out excess water.

Q: Why salt the cucumbers?
A: It keeps the salad from becoming watery and helps the cucumbers stay crisp.

Q: Can I skip this step?
A: You can, but the salad might be more watery and less crunchy.

Step 3: Mix the Pickling Liquid

In a small bowl, mix:

  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar

  • 1 tbsp sugar

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Stir until sugar and salt are dissolved.

Q: Can I use a different vinegar?
A: Yes! White vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even white wine vinegar work. Rice vinegar is just milder and slightly sweet.

Q: Can I adjust the sweetness or acidity?
A: Absolutely. Add more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for tang.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels. Toss them with red onion slices and dill in a bowl. Pour the vinegar mixture over and stir to coat.

Q: How long should it marinate?
A: Ideally, at least 15 minutes before serving. For stronger flavor, refrigerate for 1–2 hours.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds or chili flakes if you like, and serve chilled.

❄️ Storage:

Q: How long will it keep?
A: Up to 3–5 days in the fridge in an airtight container. It gets more flavorful over time but may lose some crunch after 2–3 days.

✅ Quick Tips:

  • Use fresh, firm cucumbers for best crunch.

  • Add garlic or chili for more punch.

  • Great alongside grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a refreshing side.

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