If you’re a fan of tangy, crunchy, and garden-fresh flavors, then this lemon cucumber pickle recipe is going to be your new favorite. Lemon cucumbers—those round, yellow-skinned cucumbers resembling little lemons—are not just visually striking, but they also pack a mild, sweet crunch that’s perfect for pickling.
Whether you’re growing lemon cucumbers in your garden or found them at a farmers market, this simple recipe will help you transform them into a delicious, tangy snack or side dish. Best of all, this lemon cucumber pickle recipe is quick, customizable, and requires no special canning equipment.
What Are Lemon Cucumbers?
Despite their name, lemon cucumbers don’t taste like lemons. Their name comes from their shape and color. These cucumbers are crisp and juicy with a mildly sweet flavor, making them ideal for fresh pickling.
Unlike traditional cucumbers, lemon cucumbers have thin, edible skin and few seeds, which means they absorb pickling brine beautifully while maintaining a pleasant crunch.
Ingredients – Lemon Cucumber Pickle Recipe
Before we dive into the instructions, let’s gather everything you need.
Ingredients:
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4–5 lemon cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
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1 small red onion, thinly sliced
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3–4 garlic cloves, crushed
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1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a fruitier note)
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1 cup water
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2 tablespoons sugar
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1 tablespoon salt (kosher or pickling salt preferred)
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1 teaspoon mustard seeds
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1 teaspoon black peppercorns
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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Fresh dill sprigs or dill seed (optional but recommended)
Instructions – How to Make Lemon Cucumber Pickles
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Prep the Cucumbers
Wash and slice the lemon cucumbers into 1/4-inch rounds. If they’re particularly seedy or large, feel free to halve them lengthwise first. -
Sterilize Your Jars
Clean your mason jars with hot, soapy water and rinse well. You don’t need to do a full canning process for refrigerator pickles, but clean jars help extend freshness. -
Pack the Jars
Layer the lemon cucumber slices, red onions, garlic cloves, and dill into the jars. -
Make the Brine
In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the sugar and salt dissolve—about 2 minutes. -
Pour the Brine
Carefully pour the hot brine over the cucumbers in the jar, covering them completely. Tap the jars gently to remove any trapped air bubbles. -
Cool & Refrigerate
Let the jars cool to room temperature, then seal with lids and refrigerate. These quick pickles are ready to enjoy in 24 hours, but they taste even better after 2–3 days.
Why This Lemon Cucumber Pickle Recipe Works
This lemon cucumber pickle recipe is designed for freshness and flavor. The balance of vinegar, salt, and sugar gives the pickles a bright and zesty kick without overwhelming the natural flavor of the lemon cucumbers.
The mustard seeds and peppercorns add depth, while garlic and dill round out the flavor profile with savory and herbal notes. It’s a great way to preserve your summer harvest and enjoy a healthy snack.
How to Enjoy Lemon Cucumber Pickles
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Add them to burgers, wraps, or sandwiches
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Pair with grilled meats or vegetarian dishes
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Chop them into salads for a tangy crunch
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Enjoy straight from the jar as a guilt-free snack
You can even dice these pickles to add to potato salad or egg salad, giving traditional recipes a fun twist.
Storage & Shelf Life
Store your lemon cucumber pickles in the refrigerator. They’ll last up to 2–3 weeks, although they’re often eaten long before that! Always use clean utensils to remove pickles from the jar to keep them fresh longer.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about making your own pickles—especially when you’re working with such a unique and beautiful ingredient. This lemon cucumber pickle recipe is easy, fast, and bursting with flavor. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to make the most of summer produce or explore a new type of cucumber.
If you’re ready to elevate your pickling game, bookmark this lemon cucumber pickle recipe and share it with friends and family. It’s a crunchy, tangy treat that’s as good on your plate as it is for your gut health.