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Spicy Lightly Pickled Cucumbers

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant vegan side dish offers a refreshing twist on classic pickles, combining the cooling crunch of fresh cucumbers with a gentle heat from crushed red pepper flakes. These spicy lightly pickled cucumbers are prepared using a quick-pickling method, which preserves the bright green colour and firm texture of the vegetables while allowing the tangy white wine vinegar and sugar to penetrate the spears for a balanced, savoury flavour.

Perfect for summer barbecues or as a zesty accompaniment to spicy Asian-inspired mains, this recipe is a simple way to elevate your vegetable game. The addition of fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving ensures a punchy, herbaceous finish. It is an ideal make-ahead dish for hosting, as the flavours develop beautifully while chilling in the fridge.

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Ingredients for Spicy Lightly Pickled Cucumbers

  • 900g medium Persian cucumbers (about 12), cut lengthwise into spears

  • 60ml white wine vinegar or unseasoned rice vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon sugar

  • 3/4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more

  • 2 tablespoons chopped dill

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

How to make Spicy Lightly Pickled Cucumbers

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Toss cucumbers in a large bowl with vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, and 2 teaspoons salt. Chill, tossing once, at least 1 hour and up to 6 hours.

Just before serving, add dill and lemon juice and toss to combine. Taste and season with more salt if needed.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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