Marinated Cucumbers Recipe – Easy, Healthy and Crunchy

Welcome to a simple yet flavorful recipe for marinated cucumbers! Perfect for those hot summer days, this dish is a refreshing blend of tangy vinegar and crisp cucumber. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this healthy snack or side dish in no time.

Why You’ll Love Marinated Cucumbers

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and only a few ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy days or last-minute side dishes.
• Healthy and Refreshing: Cucumbers are low in calories and high in hydration, making this dish a nutritious and refreshing option.
• Versatile: Enjoy these marinated cucumbers on their own as a snack, or add them to salads, sandwiches, or wraps for an extra burst of flavor.
• Long-lasting: These cucumbers can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, allowing you to prepare a large batch and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste by experimenting with different types of vinegar or adding herbs and spices.

Ingredients For Marinated Cucumbers

• English Cucumber: Provides a crisp texture and mild flavor. You can also use regular cucumbers.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. You can substitute with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and helps with the pickling process.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spiciness to balance the tanginess of the vinegar.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Marinated Cucumbers

• Mixing Bowl: To mix and marinate the cucumber slices.
• Measuring Cups: To measure the vinegar accurately.
• Measuring Spoons: To measure the salt and pepper.
• Knife: For slicing the cucumber.
• Cutting Board: To safely slice the cucumber.

How To Make Marinated Cucumbers

• Start by washing the cucumber thoroughly. Whether you choose to peel it or not is up to you.
• Slice the cucumber into very thin slices using a knife.
• Place the cucumber slices in a mixing bowl.
• In a separate bowl, mix together the vinegar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
• Pour the vinegar mixture over the cucumber slices.
• Toss the cucumber slices to ensure they are evenly coated with the mixture.
• Let the cucumbers marinate at room temperature for at least 20 minutes, or refrigerate them for a longer, more intense flavor.
• Before serving, give the cucumbers a quick stir to redistribute the vinegar.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish: Serve these marinated cucumbers alongside grilled meats or fish for a light and refreshing contrast.
• In Salads: Add them to a green salad or a grain bowl for extra crunch and flavor.
• With Sandwiches: Use them as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or wraps to add a tangy bite.
• As a Snack: Enjoy them straight from the bowl as a healthy and satisfying snack.
• In Tacos: Use them as a fresh, tangy topping for tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Tips For Success

• Use Fresh Cucumbers: For the best texture and flavor, use fresh, firm cucumbers. Avoid using cucumbers that are soft or have blemishes.
• Thin Slices: Slice the cucumbers as thinly as possible. This helps them absorb the marinade more effectively and gives a better texture.
• Adjust the Vinegar: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of vinegar slightly. Conversely, if you love a strong tangy taste, feel free to add a bit more.
• Mix Well: Ensure that the cucumber slices are evenly coated with the vinegar mixture. This ensures that every slice is flavorful.
• Marinating Time: While 20 minutes is the minimum marinating time, allowing the cucumbers to sit for a few hours or even overnight will intensify the flavor.
• Keep Refrigerated: Store the marinated cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and crisp for up to a week.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding other ingredients like thinly sliced onions, garlic, dill, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
• Serve Cold: For the best taste and texture, serve the marinated cucumbers chilled.
• Stir Before Serving: Before serving, give the cucumbers a quick stir to redistribute the marinade that may have settled at the bottom.

Variations And Substitutions

• Different Vinegars: Experiment with different types of vinegar such as balsamic, red wine, or apple cider vinegar to create a unique flavor profile.
• Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or parsley can add a burst of freshness to the marinated cucumbers. Simply chop and mix them in with the cucumbers before marinating.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of jalapeño to the mix. This will give your cucumbers a spicy kick.
• Garlic Infusion: For a robust flavor, add thinly sliced garlic or a dash of garlic powder to the vinegar mixture. This will infuse the cucumbers with a delightful garlicky taste.
• Sweeter Twist: If you prefer a slightly sweet flavor, add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to the vinegar mixture. This balances out the tanginess with a touch of sweetness.
• Colorful Additions: Mix in some thinly sliced red onions or bell peppers for added color and flavor. These vegetables also marinate well and enhance the overall dish.
• Lemon Zest: For a citrusy note, add a bit of lemon zest to the marinade. This gives a fresh and zesty twist to the cucumbers.
• Asian Flair: Incorporate a splash of soy sauce and a few drops of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired version of marinated cucumbers. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
• Crunch Factor: If you love extra crunch, add some sliced radishes or carrots. These veggies retain their crunchiness even after marinating.
• Salt Variations: Try using different types of salt such as sea salt, kosher salt, or even flavored salts like garlic salt to enhance the taste.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store the marinated cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to a week.
• Reheating: These marinated cucumbers are best enjoyed cold and do not require reheating. Simply take them out of the refrigerator and serve them as is.
• Refresh the Flavor: If the cucumbers lose some of their tanginess after a few days, you can refresh the flavor by adding a splash of vinegar before serving.
• Avoid Freezing: Freezing marinated cucumbers is not recommended as it can alter their texture and make them mushy.
• Mix Before Serving: Always give the cucumbers a good mix before serving to redistribute the vinegar and ensure even flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers if you prefer. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly and consider peeling them if the skin is too tough or waxy.

How long should I marinate the cucumbers for the best flavor?
While you can marinate the cucumbers for as little as 20 minutes, for the best flavor, allow them to marinate for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add thinly sliced red onions, bell peppers, radishes, or even carrots to the mix. These vegetables will also marinate well and add extra flavor and crunch.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the cucumbers while marinating?
For a stronger flavor, you can marinate the cucumbers at room temperature for up to an hour. However, for longer marinating times and to keep them fresh, it’s best to refrigerate them.

How long do marinated cucumbers last in the refrigerator?
Marinated cucumbers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They may become more flavorful the longer they sit.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar such as white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or red wine vinegar. Each type will give the cucumbers a unique flavor.

Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
The basic recipe is already sugar-free. However, if you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a sugar substitute or leave out the sweetener altogether.

What should I do if the cucumbers taste too salty?
If the cucumbers are too salty, you can rinse them lightly with water and then drain them well. Alternatively, you can add more cucumber slices to dilute the saltiness.

Can I use pre-sliced cucumbers for this recipe?
While fresh cucumbers are best, you can use pre-sliced cucumbers in a pinch. Just ensure they are fresh and not overly dried out.

How can I make the cucumbers spicier?
To add a spicy kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes, a few slices of jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce to the vinegar mixture.

Other Easy Cucumber Recipes

Chickpea Cucumber Salad: A refreshing blend of crisp cucumbers and protein-packed chickpeas, perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Shirazi Salad (Persian Cucumber Salad): A traditional Persian salad featuring diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, tossed with fresh herbs and a tangy lemon dressing.

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad: Spicy and savory, this Korean cucumber salad is marinated in a flavorful mix of garlic, sesame oil, and gochugaru.

Red Onion Cucumber Salad: A simple yet delicious salad combining crunchy cucumbers and sharp red onions in a light vinaigrette.

Apple Cucumber Salad: Sweet and refreshing, this salad pairs crisp cucumbers with juicy apples and a zesty citrus dressing.

Keto Shrimp Avocado Cucumber Appetizer: These keto-friendly bites feature creamy avocado, succulent shrimp, and crunchy cucumber for a delightful appetizer.

Low-Carb Shrimp Cucumber Cream Cheese Bites: A low-carb, creamy appetizer made with shrimp, cucumber, and a rich cream cheese filling.

See also:

• Vinegar Marinated Tomatoes

• Baked Chicken Legs with Caesar Dressing Marinade

• Grilled Onion Slices with Marinade