How To Make Panera Strawberry Banana Smoothie At Home
This Strawberry Banana Smoothie tastes like a Panera Smoothie! This recipe is perfect for those chaotic mornings when you need something quick and portable for “on-the-go” breakfast. Rather than skip breakfast, grab a couple of yummy breakfast cookies, or better yet, whip up a smoothie like this Panera Copycat.
Smoothies are a great way to get your daily servings of fruits and veggies while also being a busy bee. From leaving for work extra early to prepare for that presentation, to dropping the kids off at school, to hitting up the gym at 5 am before you tackle your day, let’s face it, sitting down and enjoying breakfast just isn’t realistic. But when you do have time, this recipe can be enjoyed when you can mindfully savor every lick, sip, and slurp.
How To Make a Panera Bread Strawberry Banana Smoothie Recipe
Making your very own Panera Strawberry Banana Smoothie at home is easy!
Let’s start with the ingredients.
Fruit: Strawberries & Bananas
For this recipe, I chose frozen strawberries and bananas. You could also use strawberry puree, or fresh strawberries and bananas in this recipe. I prefer to use frozen fruit so I do not need any ice.
Make this a Panera Strawberry Smoothie by omitting the bananas or a Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie by omitting the strawberries and adding a spoonful of peanut butter! Note, that the nutrition facts for your smoothie will change depending on what fruits and ingredients you use.
Liquid: Milk of Choice
My milk of choice is soy milk for its flavor and nutritional value. You could use almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or cow’s milk in this fruit smoothie recipe.
Sweetness: Dates
This sticky & sweet dried fruit is my go-to sweet addition to my smoothies. At times, I might even use date syrup. Some other sweet choices include maple syrup, honey, or (my gosh) refined sugar. My sweetener choice is based on the flavor profile of the smoothie but also my mood!
Example: I might use maple syrup in a banana oatmeal smoothie to give it an extra “breakfasty” taste.
Fat: Nut Butter or Fat Plain Greek Yogurt
Fat is essential for my creamy smoothies. Have you ever made a smoothie and it was all foam?! I have, and there is nothing I despise more (being a little dramatic here but it really is disappointing).
There are a few explanations for the foam (which I will definitely be diving into in a future blog post) but I stick to one rule to prevent foam and ensure creaminess, always add fat. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and is often the culprit of foaminess. Insoluble fiber can be found in many fruits and vegetables that we put in our smoothies.
Adding fat is one of my best tips to prevent the fiber from foaming up! But really, I also love the taste and satiation the added fat brings!
Some other fats that are excellent in a healthy smoothie include:
Whole milk, which also functions as a liquid
Avocado, which is especially delicious when combined with blueberries
Full-fat plain Greek yogurt
Nuts and/or seed butter. One of my favorite nut/seed butter to use is Almond. I just love the taste of almond butter in a smoothie, especially when paired with almond extract. It is the perfect subtle flavor that has the taster going, hmmmmm yummy, that’s so good, what is that flavor I am tasting?!
Protein Powder or Collagen Powder Add Ins
I like to add protein powder to most of my smoothies. The added protein keeps me satisfied and helps me meet my protein needs for the day! One of my favorite delicious breakfast hacks is to include at least 30g of protein in my healthy breakfast meal!
To help me keep track of my protein I use the food diary also known as MyFitnessPal exercise tracker (in my opinion the best macro tracking app). It helps me stay on top of the grams of protein I am consuming throughout the week. Plus, it’s free!
More Ingredient Add Ins
More Strawberry Banana Smoothie with Delicious Add-Ins!
Creatine: 3-5g of creatine is ideal for supporting muscle strength and recovery, especially if you’re on a fitness journey. This flavorless addition blends easily without altering the smoothie’s creamy texture.
Chia & Flax Seed Mix: Combining chia and flax seeds provides a powerful mix of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. Together, they support heart and digestive health, help keep you full longer, and add a gentle nutty flavor that complements the smoothie’s sweetness. Just a tablespoon or two is all you need!
Apple Juice or Fruit Juice: A splash of apple juice or any preferred fruit juice adds a natural sweetener, intensifying the fruity flavors.
Coconut Yogurt: For a creamy smoothie with a tropical twist, mix in a spoonful of coconut yogurt.
Frozen Cauliflower: Adding a handful of frozen cauliflower florets or riced cauliflower is a clever way to thicken your smoothie without extra sugar or calories. Cauliflower is packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making your smoothie creamy, nutrient-dense, and you still have a super delicious smoothie.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add subtle natural sweetness without overpowering the fruit flavors.
Step By Step Instructions
Step 1: Add All Ingredients
Place all your measured ingredients into a blender. This could include fruits, liquids, yogurt, and any additional flavorings or supplements.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Secure the blender lid and blend until the mixture is smooth. Check for any unblended chunks and blend again if needed.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your smoothie a taste and adjust based on your preferences:
Too thick? Add a bit more soy milk (or your preferred liquid).
Too thin? Add more yogurt or ice to thicken it up.
Not sweet enough? Add a date or a small amount of sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
Take your smoothie to the next level with these creative serving ideas:
Classic Glass: Serve in a chilled glass with a straw or fruit garnish.
Smoothie Bowl: Pour into a bowl and top with granola, fruit, or seeds.
On-the-Go: Pour into a thermos for an easy, portable snack.
Layered: Feeling extra? Combine two smoothie flavors for a fun layered effect.
Frozen Popsicles: Perfect for leftovers! Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for a cool treat.
Speaking of Leftovers
In addition to making Frozen Popsicles, you can also try these other options:
Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for a quick snack later. I prefer smoothies fresh, but it’s a good option for short-term storage!
Freeze in Ice Cube Trays: Pour into ice cube trays and freeze. Later, blend the smoothie cubes with milk and fresh fruit for an easy, ready-to-go smoothie.
3pitted medjool dates If not pitted, remove the pit in advance
2cupunsweetened soy milk
5tbspprotein powderunflavored, strawberry, or vanilla
¼cupfull-fat plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
Step 1: Add All Ingredients
Place all your measured ingredients into a blender. This could include fruits, liquids, yogurt, and any additional flavorings or supplements.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
Secure the blender lid and blend until the mixture is smooth. Check for any unblended chunks and blend again if needed.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your smoothie a taste and adjust based on your preferences:Too thick? Add a bit more soy milk (or your preferred liquid). Too thin? Add more yogurt or ice to thicken it up. Not sweet enough? Add a date or a small amount of sweetener.
Notes
Tip: If you like your smoothie thinner add more soy milk 1 TBSP at a time until your desired consistency. Nutrition facts are estimated based on available ingredient data and preparation. Actual values may vary based on ingredients, measurements, and cooking methods used.For precise nutritional information, consult a registered dietitian or use your preferred nutrition calculator.
Did you grow some epic lemon cucumbers this year and find you have an excess amount? Or perhaps you picked up some lemon cucumbers from the farmers market and are now scratching your head about what to do with them.
Lemon cucumbers make excellent additions to salads, salsas, or sliced over sandwiches. But before I dive into 8 ways to use up your excess lemon cucumbers this summer, let’s cover some frequently asked questions!
FAQ (Ask a Dietitian!)
Some frequently asked questions about lemon cucumbers.
Do Lemon Cucumbers Taste Like Lemons?
No, lemon cucumbers do not taste like lemons. Theey have a mild, refreshing flavor, much like traditional fresh cucumbers.
What is lemon cucumber good for?
Lemon cucumbers are just like any other regular cucumber, like english cucumbers, they are amazing in salads, sandwiches, as a dipper, or pickled
Can you eat raw lemon cucumbers?
Yes, you can eat raw lemon cucumbers. I actually prefer to eat lemon cucumbers raw. That being said, you can also eat lemon cucumbers dehydrated, grilled, or roasted.
Are lemon cucumbers burpless?
Lemon cucumbers are burpless, meaning they are non-bitter and contain very little cucurbitacin. Cucurbitacin is the compound that causes bitterness in cucumbers.
8 Easy Lemon Cucumber Recipe Ideas
Now, here are some easy healthy recipes that you can use with your next batch of lemon cucumbers or any other garden cucumbers you might have on hand.
Lemon Cucumber Salad
Maybe one of the easiest methods of using lemon cucumbers is in a simple salad. Just chop up your lemon cucumbers, add 1, 2, or 3 additional veggies, fruit, or herbs, then dress it up with an easy lemon vinaigrette made with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and olive oil. Champagne vinegar or any other wine vinegar also makes for an excellent vinaigrette. Check out how I use lemon cucumbers in this recipe, Easy Lemon Cucumber Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette.
Lemon Cucumber Salsa
Use lemon cucumbers like pepper or other cucumber varietal and add it to your salsa and pico de gallos. I love to take some sungold cherry tomatoes from my garden, chop them, and mix them into my lemon cucumber pico de gallo. The colors are like sunshine.
Chopped Lemon Cucumbers in Simple Salads a Grain Bowl
When making a nutritious grain bowl, simply include some chopped lemon cucumbers. I might further spice it up with a little red chili flakes. Check out how you can use lemon cucumbers in this Greens and Ancient Grains Bowl.
Sliced in a Sandwich
Lemon cucumbers are the perfect size to add to a sandwich. Slice the lemon cucumbers in thick rounds and add them to your sandwich. They add a wonderful cucumber crunch. Try a combination of flavors like seeded whole wheat bread, with a spread of pesto, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, spinach, and oven-roasted turkey breast or baked tofu.
Have a killer glaze or sauce when cool would taste fantastic drizzled over sliced cucumbers? Use that with some lemon cucumbers like this Garlic Sweet Soy Glaze Recipe. Further elevate this simple side with fresh herbs like mint, basil leaves, or cilantro.
Refrigerator Pickle Recipes
These arent your usual pickles, they are refrigerator pickles using lemon cucumabers! Easy Lemon cucumber pickles are a super easy recipe. I love to use white vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar with my cucumber slices when making pickles. You can easily make quick pickles with water, vinegar, and salt.You can also include ingredients like celery seeds, red onion, fresh dill and a tbsp of mustard seed.
Dehydrated into “chips”
Lemon cucumber chips are innovative, fun, and a healthier alternative to potato chips. However, I do enjoy a little of both, the refreshing cucumber chip alongside a salty and crunchy potato chip with a little cool ranch dip!
Lemon cucumber water offers a light lemon flavor, enhanced by slices of whole lemon, fresh basil, or mint leaves for a refreshingly hydrating twist. Perfect for a flavorful, cooling drink on a hot summer day.
Featured and More Recipes
Lemon cucumber versatility and ability to enhance both taste and aesthetics of recipes make lemon cucumbers an exciting ingredient to explore across a wide range of culinary creations. Happy Cooking!
Is It Safe To Eat Tofu Everyday? Tofu Questions Answered & 16 Recipe Ideas
Whether you are eating tofu because you are vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, flexitarian, or just love tofu, this article is for you.
Now, let’s dive into some tofu questions and then 16 recipe ideas for your next tofu culinary adventure!
Is It Safe To Eat Tofu Everyday?
Tofu contains plant compounds called phytoestrogens (isoflavones) that are similar to the hormone estrogen, but they are much weaker—about 1,000 times weaker than the estrogen made by our bodies. Research shows that eating soy, even daily, does not significantly raise the risk of cancer or change hormone levels in healthy people.
In fact, some studies suggest that isoflavones may have health benefits. In places where people regularly eat soy, like in Asia, soy may help protect against certain diseases. Fears that soy could increase estrogen levels or cause hormone issues aren’t strongly supported by science. Most research has found no negative effects on hormone balance, fertility, or cancer risk from moderate soy intake.
Some research even suggests that isoflavones may have positive effects, particularly for postmenopausal women, as they can mildly mimic estrogen and help alleviate symptoms like hot flashes.
Is Tofu Vegan?
Yes! Tofu is a vegan food and is a popular choice among individuals looking to consume more plant-based protein. It is used in a wide variety of dishes as a meat or dairy substitute.
However, some dishes like Mapo Tofu include animal protein like pork, it is important to check if ordering tofu dishes at restaurants is 100% plant-based if you follow a plant-based diet. It is always important to read the food labels of tofu products to ensure it is 100% plant-based if you follow a vegan diet. While most tofu is vegan-friendly there are some varieties like egg tofu that contain animal products.
What is Tofu Made of?
The primary ingredient in tofu is soybeans. Soy milk is condensed into solid white blocks, a process similar to cheese making. Tofu can be made into various textures including silken, firm, and extra firm.
Where Did Tofu Originate?
Tofu originated in China over 2000 years ago. You can learn a lot more about the theories of tofu’s origin here, on the Tofu Wikipedia page!
Is Tofu Healthy?
Tofu is a highly nutritious food and an excellent source of plant-based protein. As a bonus, tofu has all 9 essential amino acids. Something to note, the nutritional content of tofu can vary depending on the type (i.e. silken, firm, extra firm).
Tofu has many health benefits. Approx. 3.5oz of firm tofu has ~144kcal and ~16g protein ~10g fat and ~3g carbohydrates with ~2g fiber. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, selenium, and B vitamins. Moreover, it is naturally low in sodium, and saturated fat, and is completely free of cholesterol.
16 Tofu Recipe Ideas
01 – Creamy Sauces
Whether it’s a sauce for dipping crackers or veggies, or a sauce for lasagna or pasta, tofu blended or crumbled into a sauce.
Furthermore, the sauce can be customized to suit various cuisines and preferences making it a delicious addition to a wide range of vegan recipes.
02 – Vegan Nuggets
Tofu nuggets are a great way to use your air-fryer. These plant-based nuggests are a delicious, healthy, and plant-based alternative to chicken nuggets.
03 – Tofu Tacos
Shredded tofu is delicious when sautéed and seasoned to your liking. Serve it in a tortilla with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, and cheese.
04 – Thick Sweet Smoothies
Enjoy Silken Tofu in a smoothie. Just like with soups, silken tofu blends to create a smooth and creamy texture. It is a nutritional boost while remaining neutral in flavor.
Enjoy tofu sautéed in a stir-fry. Extra-firm and firm tofu’s texture makes for an ideal ingredient to withstand the high heat of stir-frying resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
Additionally, the tofu absorbs the flavors of the stir-fry sauce and compliments the other ingredients like veggies and rice.
06 – Noodles with Baked Tofu
Make yourself a delectable noodle dish like my Spicy Tahini Noodles or Glass Noodle Salad. Whether hot or cold, topping your noodles with some tofu makes for a hearty and filling component to the dish.
07 – Silken Tofu in Soup
Whether it’s an ingredient in a fragrant miso soup or blended into a soup to make it velvety and smooth, silken tofu can be a versatile ingredient in various soup recipes. It adds creaminess and nutrition.
08 – Tofu Appetizer with Dipping Sauce
Enjoy my Easy Baked Tofu or a deep-fried tofu as an appetizer. Baked tofu is a versatile, plant-based protein. It can be wrapped into a lettuce wrap, served on skewers, or served alone with a simple dipping sauce.
09 – Flavorful Curries
Another excellent way to use any type of tofu is in a curry. Try simmering tofu in a fragrant Thai green curry sauce made with coconut milk, green curry paste, and vegetables. Then, serve it over steamed rice.
10 – Grain Bowl with Tofu
I love a nutritious grain bowl full of veggies for lunch. Bump up the protein by adding some baked, grilled, fried, or sautéed tofu to your lunch creation.
Think thick slices grilled (extra firm tofu) or tofu skewers basted in a marinade for your grilled tofu culinary adventure. The smoky charred flavor is pleasing and creates a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior.
12 – Silky Desserts
Silken tofu’s neutral flavor and silky texture make it ideal for making smooth and nutritious desserts. It makes a terrific base for creamy desserts like puddings, mousses, and cheesecakes.
It is a healthier alternative to heavy cream while adding its plant-based protein. Tofu in dessert is like a tofu chocolate mousse. Blend silken tofu with melted chocolate, a sweetener like maple syrup, and a dash of vanilla to make a rich and creamy vegan chocolate mousse.
13 – Pot Pies or Other Casseroles
Tofu can be used as a vegetarian or vegan protein source in pot pies, casseroles, and other baked dishes. It absorbs the flavors well and is a great meat alternative.
14 – Tofu Scramble
Tofu Scrambles can be used in a variety of ways and are commonly used as an egg replacement. Use it in fried rice (like in this Vegan Veggie Fried Rice recipe), spooned over toast with breakfast or as an ingredient in breakfast tacos.
My recipe for Tofu Scramble is a terrific option for breakfast and brunch!
15 – Smoked Tofu in Sandwiches or Wraps
Smoked tofu has a unique and savory flavor. Moreover, the smoked flavor adds depth and richness to sandwiches, wraps, salads, appetizers, grain bowls, and stir-fries.
16 – Dried Tofu
Lastly, Dried tofu added to ramen or other camping meals (just add water!) makes for an easy and delicious plant-based camping or backpacking experience. You can also make ramen at home and throw some dried tofu in with the water for an easy weekday meal. Check out my Easy Vegan Kimchi Ramen recipe!
Final Thoughts and More Recipes!
While I provided many recipe ideas in this article, tofu has many more culinary applications I encourage you to explore. Its mild flavor and ability to absorb different flavors and seasonings make it an excellent choice for both sweet and savory applications.
Like these ideas? Check out these other recipes, they also pair well with a tofu addition!
Roasted Jalapenos: An Easy Recipe for Salsa or Sauce
Check out this super easy and simple roasted jalapeno recipe. It is perfect for making an easy roasted jalapeno hot sauce!
In addition to a delicious hot sauce, Oven-Roasted jalapeños make delicious salsa and other yummy sauces. But don’t stop there, they can be used as a spicy kick in a marinade, a topper for rice or tacos, and even in soup!
I love how the roasted jalapenos add a smoky flavor to whatever dish you add them to.
Why You Will Love Roasted Jalapeno Peppers
I love to make roasted jalapenos for my roasted jalapeno hot sauce recipe. However, they are good for so many more reasons.
Versatility: Perfect in salsas, sauces, dips, or as a topping for burgers, nachos, and more.
Customizable Heat: Control the spice level by removing or keeping the seeds.
Simple to Make: Easy to roast in the oven, grill, or even stovetop.
How to Use Roasted Jalapeño Peppers
Salsas: Add roasted jalapeños to homemade salsa such as jalapeno salsa with roasted garlic cloves, lime juice, and cherry tomatoes, or mix them into a mango habanero salsa for a smoky, spicy kick.
Black Beans Side Dish: Adding oven-roasted jalapenos is a simple way to give black beans extra flavor.
Tacos: Enhance your tacos by adding oven-roasted jalapeños for a spicy flavor
Nachos: Toss roasted jalapeños into oven-baked nachos, either with the tortilla chips and toppings or after for added spice.
Burgers and sandwiches: Add to burgers and sandwiches for a kick
Eggs: Stir into scrambled eggs and omelets for a spicy take on breakfast
Hot Sauces: I love using my food processor to whip up a variety of sauces and salsas featuring oven-roasted jalapeños
Creamy sauces and Dips: Create a spicy cashew green sauce to pair with roasted veggies, baked fish, or tofu for a deliciously vibrant dip.
Tools
Roasting Pan or baking sheet
optional: Parchment paper
Rubber Spatula
Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
Raw Jalapeños: Fresh, firm peppers are best. Keep them whole or halve them, and remove seeds for less heat.
Olive Oil: A light drizzle helps the jalapeños roast evenly and enhances their smoky flavor.
Salt (Optional): Adds seasoning to balance the spice, or customize with other spices like garlic powder or cumin.
Step By Step Instructions
Follow my easy method for making the best-roasted jalapeño peppers.
Step 1: Preheat your oven Set the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2: Prepare the jalapeños Wash and dry the jalapeños. You can either leave them whole or cut them in half lengthwise. Option to remove the seeds and ribs to reduce the spiciness.
Step 3: Toss in oil In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the jalapeños and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with salt if using.
Step 4: Roast Place the jalapeños on a roasting pan or baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down if halved. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the skin blisters and the peppers become slightly charred.
How To Store
Once the jalapenos have cooled, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Flash Freeze (Optional): Spread the cooled jalapeños on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them for 1-2 hours. This prevents them from sticking together later.
Transfer to Freezer Bags: After freezing, place the jalapeños in a resealable freezer-safe container. Remove as much air as possible. Keep in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Bonus Ways to Make Roasted Jalapeños
Try these alternative methods to make it easy to roast jalapeños no matter what equipment you have on hand!
Grill Method:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place whole or halved jalapeños directly on the grill grates. Grill for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin blisters and chars.
Stovetop Method:
Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place whole or halved jalapeños in the dry pan and cook for about 5-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin blackens and the peppers soften.
Air Fryer Method: (My Fave)
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the whole or halved jalapeños in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until blistered and slightly charred.
Make A Roasted Jalapeno Hot Sauce (No-Recipe Recipe)
Roast a handful of roasted jalapeños (6-8), andkeep seeds if you want extra heat. Toss them in a blender with a couple of garlic cloves, a about 1/2 cup of vinegar (white or apple cider or both!), 1-2 tbsp honey for sweetness, and ~1/2 tsp salt. Add a little water (2-4 tbsp) to get the consistency you like.
Blend those until smooth, adjusting salt and honey to taste. Pour it into a jar, and that’s it! You’ve got a smoky, tangy hot sauce to spice up tacos, eggs, grilled meats, or whatever you like.
This roasted jalapeno hot sauce will be kept in the fridge for up to two weeks!
Wash and dry the jalapeños. You can either leave them whole or cut them in half lengthwise. Option to remove the seeds and ribs to reduce the spiciness.
Step 3: Toss in oil
In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the jalapeños and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with salt if using.
Step 4: Roast
Place the jalapeños on a roasting pan or baking sheet in a single layer, cut side down if halved. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the skin blisters and the peppers become slightly charred.
If you’re a fan of homemade pickles and love exploring fresh produce from farmer’s markets, you’re in for a treat with these lemon cucumber pickles recipes!
Here, I’m sharing my go-to method for making lemon cucumber pickles, a simple and refreshing refrigerator pickle recipe that’s perfect for preserving your market haul.
Despite their name, lemon cucumbers don’t taste like lemons, but their bright yellow color adds a sunny twist to the pickle jar. Thisis a great recipe for anyone looking to whip up crisp, tangy refrigerator pickles, and has an abundance of lemon cucumbers.
Why I Love This Recipe
Here are a few reasons why this recipe has become one of my favorites for quick pickles.
Unique ingredient: Lemon cucumber plants produce these fun, round cucumbers that look like lemons but have the classic mild cucumber taste. This is also a perfect recipe for small batches if you only have a few lemon cucumbers.
Easy to make: This recipe requires minimal effort, and with just a few simple steps, you can enjoy homemade pickles in no time, no canning required.
Perfect snack and side: Pickles are my go-to for a quick, tangy snack or an easy side dish. They add the perfect burst of flavor and crunch to any meal.
Tools
1 quart jar or 2 pint jars (or mason jar)
Small saucepan
Slicing knife
Ingredients
4-5 lemon cucumbers, washed and sliced
1 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
1 cup water
2 tablespoons honey or sugar
1 tablespoon mustard seed
1 tablespoon salt
Step-By-Step Instructions
Prepare the cucumbers: Wash cucumbers thoroughly, then slice them into thin rounds or spears, depending on your preference.
Make the brine: In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, rice vinegar, water, sugar, mustard seed, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
Cool the brine: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the brine cool to room temperature.
Pack the jars: While the brine cools, place the sliced cucumbers into a clean quart jar (or divide between 2-pint jars), packing them in snugly.
Add the brine: Once the brine has cooled, pour it over the sliced cucumbers, making sure they are completely submerged. Seal the jar(s) tightly with a lid.
Refrigerate: Place the jar(s) in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to let the flavors develop. The pickles will be ready to enjoy after this time, but the flavor will continue to improve over the next few days.
Recipe Variations
Here are several simple ways to switch up this lemon cucumber pickles recipe:
Add veggies: For extra crunch, toss in a handful of cauliflower florets or green beans along with the cucumber slices for a colorful, tangy pickle mix.
Garlic twist: Add a clove of garlic to each jar for a bold, aromatic flavor that complements the lemon cucumbers.
Spice it up: Drop a tsp of black peppercorns into the brine for a subtle hint of spice and extra depth to the pickles.
More Sweetness: Add 1-2 more tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the brine for bread and butter pickles.
Fresh herbs: Add sprigs of fresh dill, thyme, bay leaf, or even rosemary to infuse the pickles with herbal flavors.
Spicy kick: Include a few slices of fresh jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Onion slices: Thinly slice red or yellow onions and layer them with the cucumbers for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Try these ideas to enjoy your lemon cucumber pickles with even more flavor:
Slice lemon: Add a thin slice of lemon to your jar for a citrusy twist and extra brightness.
Charcuterie board: These pickles make a great addition to any charcuterie board, bringing a refreshing crunch alongside cheeses and meats.
Potato salad: Chop the pickles and mix them into potato salad for a tangy, crunchy upgrade.
My Favorite: Top white rice, eggs, or spicy tuna with a generous spoonful of these lemon cucumber pickles.This is my absolute go-to for a quick meal.
Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and finish with fresh basil. The tasty pickle adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements this savory meal.
Wash cucumbers thoroughly, then slice them into thin rounds or spears, depending on your preference.
Make the brine:
In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, rice vinegar, water, sugar, mustard seed, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
Cool the brine:
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the brine cool to room temperature.
Pack the jars:
While the brine cools, place the sliced cucumbers into a clean quart jar (or divide between 2-pint jars), packing them in snugly.
Add the brine:
Once the brine has cooled, pour it over the sliced cucumbers, making sure they are completely submerged. Seal the jar(s) tightly with a lid.
Refrigerate:
Place the jar(s) in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to let the flavors develop. The pickles will be ready to enjoy after this time, but the flavor will continue to improve over the next few days.
