Just when I thought my pickling journey couldn’t get any tangier, I stumbled upon a summer romance with lemon pickled cucumbers. It’s a fresh twist that’s as bright and refreshing as a sunny day.
These aren’t just any pickles. They’re a burst of summer in every bite, marrying the cool crispness of cucumbers with the tangy cheerfulness of lemon.
It’s a delightful dance of flavors that’s quickly become my go-to for a sunny season treat.
Lemon Pickled Cucumbers Recipe
Equipment
- 1 16 oz Pickling Jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large cucumber
- 1 medium lemon Freshly squeezed juice from one lemon
- 6 ounces vinegar- White vinegar or vinegar of choice.
- 4 ounces water
- 1 tablespoon sea salt or kosher salt- Check the label to ensure your sea salt or kosher salt is pure, without anti-caking agents or iodine, as they can impact the flavor and look of your vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon sugar- For a low-carb or keto option try using monk fruit or other type of sweeteners.
- Optional- 1 tsp of crushed red pepper flakes
- Optional- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- Optional- fresh dill
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber to your desired thickness and shape.
- Place the cucumber slices in a sterilized jar.
- In a pot, mix water, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Pour the brine over the cucumbers, making sure to leave room for the lemon juice (See note below). Top off with more brine if needed.
- Allow the jar to cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. Then seal the jar and refrigerate it. For the best flavor, let the cucumber pickle for at least 24 hours. Store in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.
Notes
Nutrition
Dishes to Enjoy Lemon Pickled Cucumbers
Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this tangy creation:
- Brighten Up Salads: Add a zesty twist to your salads by incorporating these pickles. They’re perfect in Greek salads or tossed with fresh greens and herbs.
- Elevate Sandwiches and Wraps: Insert a few slices in your sandwiches and wraps for a lemony crunch. They complement everything from chicken salad to veggie wraps.
- Cheese Board Charm: Their tangy flavor and crisp texture make them a delightful addition to cheese platters, offering a refreshing contrast.
- Refreshing Snacks: Enjoy them straight from the jar for a tangy and hydrating snack on warm days.
- Cocktail Garnishes: Add a unique twist to your summer cocktails, particularly in a gin and tonic or a cucumber-lemon martini.
- Fish and Seafood Pairing: Serve alongside grilled fish or shrimp for a complementary citrusy touch.
Is Lime More Your Style? Dive into the tangy world of lime pickled cucumbers. A refreshing twist that’s zestfully irresistible!
Perfecting Your Spice Mix
Choosing the right spices can elevate the light and tangy character of this recipe.
Here’s an expanded list of spices that harmonize beautifully with the lemony freshness:
Dill-An essential for cucumber pickles, dill imparts a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor that’s a natural partner for lemon.
Garlic Cloves-These add a robust depth, creating a savory counterpoint to the lemon’s bright acidity.
Mustard Seeds– Their tangy-spicy flavor profile adds a subtle complexity that complements the lemon and cucumber.
Black Peppercorns-They introduce a mild heat, enhancing the overall spice blend without overpowering the lemon’s zest.
Coriander Seeds-Their lemony, floral notes are a perfect match, enhancing the citrus theme.
Fennel Seeds-With a sweet, anise-like flavor, they bring an interesting dimension to the pickles, especially alongside lemon.
Mint Leaves-Fresh mint can add a cool, refreshing twist, complementing the lemon’s tanginess.
Celery Seeds-These bring a subtle, earthy tone that works surprisingly well with the brightness of lemon.
Tarragon-With its slight anise flavor, tarragon can introduce a unique, herby depth to the pickles.
Juniper Berries-For a piney note that adds an unexpected but delightful flavor, especially good with the crispness of cucumbers.
Cinnamon Stick-A small piece can add a warm, subtle sweetness, creating a complex flavor profile with the lemon.
Playing with these spices, along with your choice of vinegar, opens up a world of unique pickling flavors. Each spice and type of vinegar adds its own distinct flair to your recipe.
Feel Free to Join Us!
I’m thrilled for you to try these Lemon Pickled Cucumbers and join in on my new summer love. They’re a refreshing twist on traditional pickling that’s perfect for any season.
Share your experiences, get creative with your recipes, or ask for tips in our community.
And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more seasonal pickling ideas and fun. Let’s make this summer a pickling paradise!
