Pickle Sandwich (Sandwich on a Pickle) - Sandwich Dad
Pickle Sandwich (Sandwich on a Pickle) - Sandwich Dad is a easy American recipe that serves 1. 520 calories per serving. Recipe by Sandwich Dad on YouTube.
Prep: 35 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 45 min
Cost: $9.15 total, $9.15 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 large Pickling Cucumber (large, orange‑giant) (halved lengthwise and seeded to form the sandwich bun)
- 3 sprig Dill Sprigs (for the brine)
- 1 clove Garlic Clove (minced, for the brine)
- 6 whole Peppercorns (for the brine)
- 1 tsp Coriander Seeds (for the brine)
- 2 tbsp Salt (for the brine)
- 2 cup Water (for the brine)
- 4 tbsp Mayonnaise (spread on both sides of the pickle bun)
- 2 slice Ham (thinly sliced)
- 2 slice Mortadella (thinly sliced)
- 2 slice Gabou (thinly sliced (a mild Italian deli meat))
- 2 slice Havarti Cheese (mild, creamy)
- 1 medium Garden Tomato (sliced in half to fit the sandwich)
- 1 tbsp Red Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Red Wine Vinegar (adds a bright tang to the sauce)
- 1 pinch Oregano (dry or fresh)
- to taste Salt (for seasoning the sandwich)
- to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 piece Toothpicks (to hold the sandwich together)
Instructions
Prepare Brine and Pack Cucumber
Combine water, salt, dill sprigs, minced garlic, peppercorns, and coriander seeds in a glass jar. Stir until salt dissolves, then add the whole cucumber, ensuring it is fully submerged. Seal the jar and refrigerate for one week to develop a half‑sour flavor.
Time: PT15M
Slice and Hollow the Pickle Bun
After a week, remove the cucumber from the brine. Slice it lengthwise down the middle and use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and some flesh, creating a cavity for the fillings.
Time: PT5M
Prepare the Simple Mayo‑Onion‑Vinegar Sauce
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, chopped red onion, red wine vinegar, a pinch of oregano, and a dash of salt and pepper until smooth.
Time: PT2M
Slice Tomato and Season
Slice the garden tomato in half, then season the slices lightly with salt and pepper.
Time: PT2M
Layer the Meats and Cheese
Spread a thin layer of the mayo sauce on both interior sides of the cucumber halves. Then layer ham, mortadella, gabou, and Havarti cheese evenly on one side.
Time: PT5M
Add Tomato and Final Seasoning
Place the seasoned tomato halves on top of the cheese, sprinkle a little extra oregano, and drizzle any remaining mayo sauce over the top.
Time: PT3M
Secure and Serve
Close the cucumber halves, insert two toothpicks to hold everything together, transfer to a plate, and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT3M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 520
- Protein
- 28 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 32 g
- Fiber
- 3 g
Dietary info: high protein, low carb, gluten‑free (if using gluten‑free deli meats)
Allergens: milk, egg
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Pickling Cucumber (large, orange‑giant): regular cucumber, gherkin
- Instead of Dill Sprigs: dried dill
- Instead of Garlic Clove: garlic powder (1/4 tsp)
- Instead of Peppercorns: crushed pepper
- Instead of Coriander Seeds: coriander powder (1/2 tsp)
- Instead of Salt: sea salt
- Instead of Mayonnaise: aioli, Greek yogurt
- Instead of Ham: turkey ham
- Instead of Mortadella: salami
- Instead of Gabou: prosciutto
- Instead of Havarti Cheese: Swiss cheese
- Instead of Garden Tomato: roma tomato
- Instead of Red Onion: white onion
- Instead of Red Wine Vinegar: apple cider vinegar
- Instead of Oregano: Italian seasoning
Equipment Needed
- Glass Jar with Lid
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Small Bowl
- Spoon
- Toothpicks
- Plate
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Brining the cucumber for a full week to achieve the half‑sour flavor
- Scooping out seeds to create a sturdy yet hollow cucumber bun
- Evenly spreading the mayo‑onion‑vinegar sauce to prevent dry spots
- Layering meats and cheese without over‑filling
- Securing the sandwich with toothpicks to keep it intact
Chef Tips from the Video
- A quick tip: lightly toast the deli meats in a dry skillet for 30 seconds to add a subtle smoky flavor without losing the sandwich’s freshness.
- If you like extra tang, drizzle a few more drops of red wine vinegar over the top just before serving.
Troubleshooting
The cucumber bun is too soft and falls apart
Make sure the cucumber is firm before brining; avoid over‑scooping the interior and keep the outer wall at least ¼‑inch thick.
Sandwich becomes soggy quickly
Apply the mayo sauce sparingly and add the tomato just before serving; consider using a paper towel to blot excess moisture from the tomato.
Storage
Refrigerator: Assembled sandwich can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours (may become soggy)
Freezer: Not recommended – the cucumber texture degrades
Room temperature: Pickled cucumber halves can sit at room temperature for a few hours, but keep mayo‑based sauce chilled
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the half‑sour pickled cucumber at least one week in advance
- Store the mayo‑onion‑vinegar sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Keep all sliced ingredients refrigerated until assembly
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of the viral pickle sandwich in American internet food culture?
The viral pickle sandwich emerged from social media challenges where home cooks showcase oversized pickles as edible “buns,” turning a simple pickle into a novelty sandwich. It reflects the American love for playful, over‑the‑top food trends and the DIY spirit of turning pantry staples into eye‑catching meals.
How does the half‑sour pickle sandwich fit into the broader American sandwich tradition?
American sandwiches range from classic deli stacks to inventive creations. This sandwich pushes the envelope by using a pickled cucumber as the bread, highlighting the country’s penchant for creative twists on familiar formats while still delivering familiar deli flavors.
What traditional ingredients are used in authentic pickled cucumbers for this sandwich, and what are acceptable substitutes?
Traditional brine includes water, salt, dill, garlic, peppercorns, and coriander seeds. If fresh dill isn’t available, dried dill works; garlic powder can replace fresh garlic; and mustard seeds can stand in for coriander seeds without drastically changing flavor.
What regional variations of pickle‑based sandwiches exist in the United States?
In the Midwest, dill‑pickled cucumber “buns” are sometimes paired with bratwurst, while Southern versions may use sweet bread‑and‑butter pickles with fried chicken. Each region adapts the brine profile and fillings to local taste preferences.
During what occasions or celebrations is the half‑sour pickle sandwich typically enjoyed?
It’s popular at casual gatherings, backyard barbecues, and social media‑driven food challenges. Its novelty makes it a fun party centerpiece for summer picnics or “food hack” themed events.
What makes the half‑sour pickle sandwich special or unique in American novelty food trends?
Its use of a whole pickled cucumber as the structural “bread” creates a crunchy, tangy vessel that contrasts with rich deli meats and cheese, delivering a textural surprise that’s both visually striking and flavorful.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the viral pickle sandwich?
Common errors include over‑scooping the cucumber so the walls become too thin, using too much mayo which makes the sandwich soggy, and assembling too far in advance, which allows the pickle to release excess moisture into the fillings.
Why does this recipe use a half‑sour brine instead of a fully fermented sour brine?
A half‑sour brine provides enough acidity to brighten the sandwich without overwhelming the delicate flavors of the meats and cheese, and it keeps the cucumber crisp enough to act as a sturdy “bun.”
Can I make the viral pickle sandwich ahead of time and how should I store it?
Prepare the pickled cucumber a week ahead. Assemble the sandwich no more than a few hours before eating; store the assembled sandwich in the refrigerator, covered, and consume within 24 hours to avoid sogginess.
What does the YouTube channel Sandwich Dad specialize in?
The YouTube channel Sandwich Dad focuses on creative, over‑the‑top sandwich builds, often featuring unconventional breads or vessels, step‑by‑step tutorials, and a humorous, family‑friendly presentation style.
How does the YouTube channel Sandwich Dad’s approach to sandwich making differ from other cooking channels?
Sandwich Dad emphasizes novelty and visual impact, turning everyday ingredients into headline‑grabbing sandwiches, whereas many other channels prioritize classic techniques or health‑focused meals. His videos blend DIY experimentation with clear, concise instructions.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
