Fresh Pickled Cucumber Salad

Ingredients (Yields ~2 quarts)

4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (Kirby or English cucumbers work great)

1 small red onion or sweet onion, thinly sliced

1 cup white vinegar

1 cup water

1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste; use less for a tangier result)

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1–2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or dill (for extra freshness)

2 tbsp carrot, finely diced (optional for color/crunch)