Cucumber pickles with brie and rye bread

Cucumber pickles with brie and rye bread offers a refreshing contrast of tangy pickles and creamy cheese, served on hearty rye bread. This light snack or appetizer is simple to prepare and perfect for impressing guests.

30 Dec 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 cucumbers
1 tbsp dill
1/2 cup vinegar
2 tsp horseradish
14 oz brie cheese
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp mustard seeds
16 oz rye bread
2 tsp salt

Cucumber pickles with brie and rye bread is a delightful and refreshing dish that's perfect for a light snack or an elegant appetizer. The tangy pickles pair beautifully with the creamy brie cheese, all balanced on hearty slices of rye bread. This combination of flavors and textures will not only please your palate but also impress your guests.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pickling Brine:
- In a medium bowl, mix the 1/2 cup vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp mustard seeds. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

2. Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly.
- Slice the cucumbers thinly, about 1/4-inch thick rounds.

3. Pickle the Cucumbers:
- Add the sliced cucumbers and 1 tbsp finely chopped dill to the brine mixture.
- Mix well until all cucumber slices are evenly coated with the brine.
- Transfer the cucumber slices and brine mixture to a sealable jar or container.
- Ensure the cucumbers are submerged in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For best results, let them pickle overnight.

4. Prepare the Horseradish Spread:
- In a small bowl, mix the 2 tsp horseradish with a tablespoon of the brine from the pickled cucumbers to create a simple spread. Adjust to taste if necessary.

5. Prepare the Rye Bread:
- Slice the rye bread into even slices if not pre-sliced.
- Optionally, you can lightly toast the slices to add a bit of crunch and enhance the overall flavor.

6. Prepare the Brie Cheese:
- Slice the brie cheese into even pieces suitable for placing on each rye bread slice.

7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread a thin layer of the horseradish spread on each slice of rye bread.
- Place a slice of brie cheese on top of the horseradish spread.
- Add a generous amount of pickled cucumber slices over the brie.

8. Serve:
- Serve the open-faced sandwiches immediately.
- Optionally, garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh dill if desired.

Cucumber pickles with brie and rye bread is a simple yet sophisticated recipe that combines freshness, creaminess, and heartiness in every bite. It's perfect as a quick snack, a fancy appetizer, or even a light meal. Follow these tips to make your pickles just right, and enjoy this delicious combination with friends and family.

Cucumber pickles with brie and rye bread FAQ:

How long should I pickle the cucumbers?

For the best flavor, it's recommended to refrigerate the cucumbers in the brine for at least 1 hour. However, for optimal taste and texture, pickling overnight is ideal.

Can I store leftover pickles?

Yes, you can store leftover pickles in a sealed container in the refrigerator. They should remain fresh for up to 2 weeks if kept submerged in the brine.

What can I substitute for horseradish?

If you don't have horseradish, you can substitute it with wasabi or a mix of prepared mustard and a touch of grated fresh ginger for a similar tangy kick.

What type of rye bread is best for this recipe?

A good choice would be a dense, hearty rye bread, such as pumpernickel or a marbled rye, as they provide a robust flavor that complements the brie and pickles well.

How can I tell when the cucumbers are done pickling?

Pickled cucumbers are done when they are tender and have absorbed enough flavor from the brine. Taste one after the minimum pickling time of 1 hour; they should be tangy and crisp.

Tips:

- Make sure to slice the cucumbers thinly for the best pickling results.

- Let the pickles marinate for at least a few hours, preferably overnight, to fully develop their flavors.

- Use a good-quality brie cheese for a creamy and rich texture.

- Toast the rye bread lightly to add a bit of crispiness to your dish.

- Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the pickles to your taste by modifying the sugar and vinegar proportions.

- Dill is essential for this recipe, but feel free to add other herbs like parsley or chives for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 480kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 5g
Sugar 13g
Fat 22g

Cucumber pickles with brie and rye bread