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Quick Pickled Cucumbers Recipe with Sweet Red Onion for Fresh Flavor

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A fast and flavorful quick pickled cucumbers recipe with sweet red onion that delivers a tangy, crisp bite in under 30 minutes. Perfect for last-minute cravings, summer gatherings, and adding fresh flavor to meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium sweet red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) white vinegar (or rice vinegar for milder taste)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt or pickling salt (avoid iodized salt)
  • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed (optional)
  • A few sprigs fresh dill (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

Instructions

  1. Using a sharp knife, thinly slice 2 medium cucumbers and 1 medium sweet red onion into uniform slices about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon kosher salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar and salt dissolve completely, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Place 2 smashed garlic cloves, a few sprigs of fresh dill, and 1 teaspoon black peppercorns into the bottom of a clean jar or container.
  4. Tightly pack the sliced cucumbers and onions into the jar, layering evenly without crushing the slices.
  5. Carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) of headspace at the top.
  6. Seal the jar tightly and let it cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Then place it in the refrigerator.
  7. Allow the pickles to marinate for at least 1 hour before tasting. They are best after 4 hours but can be enjoyed up to 2 weeks refrigerated.

Notes

For crisper cucumbers, sprinkle slices with 1 teaspoon salt and let sit in a colander for 30 minutes before rinsing and drying. Use fresh, firm cucumbers for best results. Let the brine cool slightly before pouring to avoid softening cucumbers. Store pickles refrigerated and consume within 2 weeks for optimal crunch and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: quick pickled cucumbers, sweet red onion, pickles, easy pickling, quick pickle recipe, summer side dish, tangy pickles, refrigerator pickles