Homemade Giardiniera Recipe (Italian Pickled Vegetables)
Giardiniera is a flavorful Italian pickled vegetable relish made from a mix of cauliflower, celery, carrots, and red bell peppers, all marinated in a tangy brine of white wine vinegar, olive oil, and spices. It’s customizable to your preferred level of spiciness and can be stored for days, making it a versatile and delicious addition to your meals.
Servings: 16
Ingredients
- 1 head cauliflower
- 5 celery stalks
- 2 carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup pitted green olives optional
- 2 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 1 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cut the cauliflower into small florets. dice the celery and carrots into small chunks and cut the red bell pepper into small pieces.
- Place the vegetables (except the olives) in a large bowl and add the salt. Mix well and let them sit at room temperature for 8-12 hours. This would draw the moisture which will result in crispy pickled.
- After 8-12 hours, rinse the vegetables to get rid of excess salt and dry them thoroughly. Fill two 32-ounce mason jars (if you choose smaller jars you're going to need more) with the vegetables and pack them tightly.
- Add in the oregano, bay leaves and red pepper flaks (if using) to the jars.
- Fill the jars halfway with water and fill the other half with white wine vinegar. Top with the olive oil, making sure the vegetables are fully submerged.
- Seal the lid and refrigerate for 2 days before serving.
Video
Notes
Customize the Veggies: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. You can add green beans or pearl onions for extra texture and flavor. Just ensure that the vegetables are cut evenly so they pickle at the same rate.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your Giardiniera spicier, increase the red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers for a fiery kick. For a milder version, reduce the amount of spice, or omit it entirely.
Avoid Metal Containers: When storing Giardiniera, always use glass jars with non-reactive lids. Metal can react with the vinegar and affect the taste.
Add Fresh Herbs: For a unique twist, you can add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to your Giardiniera. They will infuse the vegetables with additional herbal aromas and complexity.
Nutrition
Calories: 33kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 892mg | Potassium: 159mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1524IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 0.4mg