How To Make New York Deli Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

• 4 pieces English Cucumbers (Thinly sliced (about 1/32 inch) using a mandolin or sharp knife)
• 1 medium Sweet Onion (Peeled, root and stem removed, thinly sliced)
• 2 cups White Vinegar (For the brine)
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar (For the brine)
• 0.75 teaspoon Salt (Fine sea salt)
• 0.25 teaspoon White Pepper (Ground white pepper)
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill (Chopped; dried dill can be used (1 tsp))
• 1 cup Ice Cubes (To cool the brine quickly)

Instructions

1. Slice the Onion

   Remove the outer skin, cut off the root and stem, then thinly slice the sweet onion into half‑moon pieces.

   Time: PT5M

2. Slice the Cucumbers

   Using a mandolin (or a sharp knife), slice the English cucumbers into very thin rounds (~1/32 inch). Wear cut‑resistant gloves for safety.

   Time: PT10M

3. Season and Rest

   Place the sliced cucumbers and onion in a large bowl or on baking sheets, sprinkle with 3/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp white pepper, toss to coat, and let sit for 15‑20 minutes.

   Time: PT20M

4. Make the Brine

   In a saucepan, combine 2 cups white vinegar, 1 cup granulated sugar, 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp white pepper. Heat over medium heat, stirring with a whisk, until the sugar fully dissolves (no need to boil).

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: Medium heat

5. Cool the Brine

   Remove the saucepan from heat, add a handful of ice cubes (or place the pot in an ice water bath) and stir until the brine is cool to the touch.

   Time: PT2M

6. Combine Vegetables and Brine

   Transfer the rested cucumbers and onion to a high‑walled baking dish (about 6‑8 cups capacity). Pour the cooled brine over them, ensuring everything is submerged.

   Time: PT3M

7. Add Dill

   Stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried dill) and mix gently.

   Time: PT2M

8. Chill

   Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

   Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

80

Protein

0g

Carbohydrates

20g

Fat

0g

Fiber

1g