Crunchy Tangy Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables

Welcome, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe that will revolutionize your snacking game – Crunchy Tangy Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables. Perfect for anyone who loves a good crunch and a tangy bite, these homemade pickled veggies are a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to add some zest to your meals, this recipe is tailored just for you.

Why You’ll Love These Pickled Vegetables

These refrigerator pickled vegetables are the epitome of versatility and flavor. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also offer a delightful balance of crunch and tanginess. They’re perfect as a snack on their own, a tangy addition to salads, or a vibrant garnish for sandwiches and burgers. Plus, they’re a great way to preserve your garden bounty or any extra veggies you have lying around.

Ingredients

To create these delicious pickled vegetables, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced cucumbers
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine cauliflower, carrots, cucumbers, red bell pepper, and green beans.
2. Make the Pickling Liquid: In a medium saucepan, bring vinegar, water, salt, sugar, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and red pepper flakes to a boil. Stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
3. Pickle the Vegetables: Pour the hot pickling liquid over the vegetables, ensuring they are completely submerged. Allow to cool to room temperature.
4. Jar the Vegetables: Once cooled, transfer the vegetables and liquid into jars, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged. Seal the jars tightly.
5. Refrigerate: Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving. The pickled vegetables will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Stirring spoon
• Mason jars or similar containers with tight-sealing lids
• Knife and cutting board

Tips and Tricks

• Uniform Slicing: For the best texture, slice your vegetables uniformly. This ensures even pickling.
• Blanching: For a slightly softer texture, blanch harder vegetables like cauliflower and green beans before pickling.
• Adjusting Sweetness and Heat: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar or red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
• Sterilizing Jars: For longer shelf life, sterilize your jars by boiling them for 10 minutes before using them.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Vegetable Swaps: Almost any vegetable can be pickled! Try adding radishes, zucchini, or even asparagus.
• Herbal Infusion: Add fresh dill, thyme, or rosemary to the pickling liquid for an herbal twist.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a sliced jalapeño for a spicier version.

Storing Leftovers

These pickled vegetables will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a month. Ensure that the veggies remain submerged in the pickling liquid to maintain their flavor and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Cheese and Charcuterie: These pickled veggies are a fantastic addition to a cheese and charcuterie board.
• Salad Topper: Add them to your favorite salads for an extra crunch and burst of flavor.
• Sandwich Garnish: Use them to top sandwiches and burgers for a tangy twist.
• Snack Time: Enjoy them straight from the jar as a healthy snack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of vinegar like apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a different flavor profile.

How long do the pickled vegetables need to sit before they’re ready to eat?

For the best flavor, allow the vegetables to pickle for at least 24 hours. However, they will taste even better if left for a few days.

Do I need to sterilize the jars?

While not absolutely necessary for refrigerator pickles, sterilizing the jars can help extend the shelf life and ensure your pickles stay fresh.

Can I reuse the pickling liquid?

It’s best to make a fresh batch of pickling liquid for each new batch of vegetables to ensure proper flavor and safety.

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce recipe.

Call to Action

I hope you enjoy making and savoring these Crunchy Tangy Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables as much as I do! They’re a delightful, healthy snack that’s sure to become a household favorite. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. Subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and culinary tips. Happy pickling!

Print