How to Make Pickle Juice Cucumber Salad

Optimal Slicing Technique

Cut cucumbers and onions uniformly thin for consistent texture and maximum flavor absorption.

Dressing Balance

Achieve the perfect ratio of pickle brine to oil for a punchy yet smooth flavor profile.

Marination Method

Allow proper chilling time for flavors to develop fully without over-softening the vegetables.

Seasoning Adjustment

Fine-tune salt levels based on the specific pickle brine used for consistent results.

Baking Tips

For extra crunch, remove the cucumber seeds before slicing by cutting the cucumber in half lengthwise and scooping out the seeds with a spoon.

If you prefer a less sharp onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.

The longer the salad marinates, the more pickle flavor it will absorb—adjust marinating time according to your taste preference.

Consider adding other vegetables like sliced radishes, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for color and variety.

Different pickle brines will yield different flavors—experiment with dill, kosher, bread and butter, or spicy pickle juice.

For a creamier version, add 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing.

This salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the cucumbers will soften over time.

Pickle Juice Cucumber Salad

Name: Pickle Juice Cucumber Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American, Eastern European-Inspired
Ingredients: 3 large English cucumbers (or 5-6 Persian cucumbers), thinly sliced; 1 small red onion, thinly sliced; 3/4 cup pickle juice (from dill pickles preferred); 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill); 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust based on pickle juice saltiness); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat); 1 clove garlic, minced (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This refreshing Pickle Juice Cucumber Salad transforms leftover pickle brine into a tangy, flavorful dressing that perfectly complements crisp cucumbers and red onions. Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients, it's an ideal make-ahead side dish for summer gatherings, barbecues, or as a cooling accompaniment to spicy meals.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

0 Minutes

Total Time

1H15 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

3 large English cucumbers (or 5-6 Persian cucumbers), thinly sliced

1 small red onion, thinly sliced

3/4 cup pickle juice (from dill pickles preferred)

2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)

1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust based on pickle juice saltiness)

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. If using regular cucumbers with thicker skin, you may want to peel them partially or completely. For English or Persian cucumbers, peeling is optional.

Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds (about 1/8-inch thick).

Peel and thinly slice the red onion into half-moons or rings.

In a large bowl, combine the cucumber and onion slices.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the pickle juice, oil, dill, sugar (if using), black pepper, salt, red pepper flakes (if using), and minced garlic (if using).

Pour the dressing over the cucumber and onion mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to absorb the dressing.

Before serving, stir the salad and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt if necessary.

Transfer to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve chilled.

Pickle Juice Cucumber Salad

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

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How to Make Pickle Juice Cucumber Salad

Pickle Juice Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

Instructions