Gherkins — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Gherkins nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 11 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 2 g | 0.73% |
| Fiber | 1 g | 3.57% |
| Sugars | 2 g | 4% |
| Glycemic Index | 15 | - |
| Protein | 0 g | - |
| Sodium | 1200 mg | 52.17% |
| Total Fat | 0 | - |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
11
🍏 Low-Calorie Foods
15
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Gherkins facts & tips
Health benefits
- Low in calories, making them a healthy snack or addition to meals without significantly increasing calorie intake.
- Contains probiotics (if naturally fermented), which support gut health by promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin K and potassium, which support overall health and well-being.
- May aid digestion due to their fiber content and probiotic benefits (if fermented).
- Contains antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Health risks
- High sodium content due to the pickling process, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks when consumed frequently.
- Potential for digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas when consumed in large quantities, particularly due to the vinegar or brine used in pickling.
- Potential for added sugars in sweet or bread-and-butter pickled gherkins, which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of diabetes.
- Potential for allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those allergic to cucumbers or related plants, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
How to choose gherkins
Gherkins should be firm and crisp, with a bright, glossy exterior. They should be uniform in size and shape, and submerged in a clear brine that enhances their tangy flavor.
Gherkins that are soft or have discolored spots indicate they are past their best. Jars with cloudy brine or signs of leakage should also be avoided, as they suggest improper sealing and potential spoilage.
How to store gherkins
Gherkins should be stored in the refrigerator, preferably in their original jar. Refrigeration keeps them crisp and flavorful for several months. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use.
Exposure to air can cause gherkins to lose their crunch. Avoid using dirty utensils to scoop them out, as this can introduce bacteria. Always ensure the jar is tightly sealed to maintain their quality.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Gherkins can last for 1-2 years unopened when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and used within 1-2 months. Ensure they are kept in their brine for the best quality.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover gherkins can be used in a variety of savory and tangy dishes. Chop them and add to sandwiches, burgers, or wraps for a crunchy bite, or mix them into a potato salad with mayonnaise, mustard, and herbs. Gherkins are also great when sliced and used as a topping for hot dogs, tacos, or nachos.
Use gherkins in a tartar sauce by mixing them with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and capers, perfect for serving with fish or seafood. If you have a lot of gherkins, consider making a batch of gherkin relish by blending them with onions, vinegar, and sugar, ideal for serving with cold cuts or cheese. Gherkins can also be added to a chopped salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, or used as a filling for stuffed vegetables. For a quick snack, enjoy gherkins with cheese and crackers, or mix them into a deviled egg filling for added flavor.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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