Refrigerator Cucumber Salad

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own pickles, especially when they turn out as delicious as these tangy refrigerator pickles. I love the simplicity of the recipe and the way the flavors of the cucumbers, onions, and peppers meld together with the sweet and tangy brine. Plus, knowing that I can whip up a batch and have them ready to enjoy in just a couple of days makes this recipe a winner in my book!

Ingredients:

• 4 cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 1 large red onion, sliced
• 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon celery flakes
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, onions, peppers, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, sugar, celery flakes, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat. Add two handfuls of ice to the hot liquid to cool it down quickly.
3. Place the prepared vegetables in clean, wide-mouthed jars (2 quart or 1 1/2 gallon).
4. Pour the cooled vinegar mixture over the cucumbers and other vegetables, ensuring they are completely submerged.
5. Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator.
6. Allow the pickles to marinate for at least 48 hours before enjoying.
7. These pickles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two months.

Enjoy these tangy refrigerator pickles as a tasty snack or a zesty addition to sandwiches and salads!

FAQs:

1. Can I use English cucumbers instead of regular cucumbers?
   • Yes, you can use English cucumbers if you prefer. Just be sure to slice them thinly for best results.
2. Can I adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste preferences. You can reduce or increase the amount according to how sweet you like your pickles.
3. Can I use different types of peppers?
   • Yes, you can customize the recipe by using different types of peppers, such as jalapeños or banana peppers, to add a bit of heat or variety to the pickles.
4. How long do these pickles need to marinate before they’re ready to eat?
   • While you can enjoy the pickles after 48 hours, they will continue to develop flavor the longer they sit in the refrigerator.

Tips:

1. For crispier pickles, be sure to use fresh cucumbers and soak them in ice water for 1-2 hours before slicing and preparing the recipe.
2. Use sterilized jars to ensure the pickles stay fresh for longer periods.
3. Experiment with adding different herbs and spices to the brine, such as dill, garlic, or mustard seeds, to create unique flavor profiles.
4. These pickles make great homemade gifts! Package them in decorative jars with a ribbon for a thoughtful and delicious present.

With these helpful tips and answers to common questions, you’re ready to embark on your pickling adventure and enjoy the tangy goodness of homemade refrigerator pickles!

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