Pickling is an old tradition that turns everyday foods into tangy, flavorful treats. While cucumbers are the most famous, there’s a whole world of fruits, veggies, and even eggs that taste amazing once pickled.
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It’s a great way to preserve food, reduce waste, and add exciting flavors to your meals. Whether you’re using vinegar or natural fermentation, pickling can transform ordinary ingredients into something special. Here are some fun and tasty things you might not realize you can pickle.
Carrots
Pickled carrots are crunchy, slightly sweet, and full of flavor. They work well in vinegar brine with garlic, dill, or spices.
You can slice them thin, cut them into sticks, or even pickle baby carrots whole. They make a great snack or salad topping. Their bright color and tangy taste add life to any plate.
Red Onions
When pickled, red onions become milder and more flavorful. They’re perfect for tacos, burgers, or sandwiches.
The quick-pickling method takes only a few minutes and requires just vinegar, sugar, and salt. The pink hue they take on is beautiful, and the flavor is sharp yet sweet. They’re a simple way to upgrade your meals.
Beets
Pickled beets are earthy, sweet, and slightly sour. They hold their texture well and soak up the brine nicely.
You can add spices like cloves or cinnamon for extra depth. Pickled beets pair well with goat cheese, salads, or served as a side dish. They’re a classic but often overlooked pickled vegetable.
Cauliflower
When pickled, cauliflower florets become slightly tangy and firm. Their neutral flavor makes them perfect for soaking up all the spices in the brine. You can add turmeric for color and a warm taste. Pickled cauliflower is great for snacking or adding crunch to a veggie tray.
Green Beans
Pickled green beans, often called “dilly beans,” are crisp, salty, and perfect for snacking. They’re especially tasty when packed with garlic and dill.
These beans hold their snap and don’t turn mushy. You can enjoy them straight from the jar or as a fun cocktail garnish. They’re a favorite among pickling fans for a reason.
Jalapeños
Pickled jalapeños are a spicy, flavorful addition to nachos, sandwiches, and pizzas. The pickling process tones down their heat just a little while keeping all the bold flavor. You can slice them or pickle them whole. Add onions, carrots, or garlic for extra kick. A jar of these is perfect for anyone who loves spice.
Eggs
Pickled eggs might sound strange, but they’re a protein-packed snack with a tangy twist. They’re usually made with a strong vinegar brine and left to sit for a week or more.
You can add beet juice for a pink hue and a little sweetness. Pickled eggs are popular in bars and picnics. Once you try them, you might be surprised how tasty they are.
Watermelon Rinds
Instead of tossing your watermelon rinds, try pickling them. The white part of the rind softens in the brine and takes on sweet and sour flavors. With a little sugar and spice, they become a unique and refreshing snack. This is a great way to reduce food waste. Pickled watermelon rind is a Southern favorite and a fun conversation starter.
Cabbage
Pickled cabbage is the base of sauerkraut and many slaws around the world. It’s full of gut-friendly probiotics when fermented naturally.
You can use green or red cabbage, shredded and packed with salt. It’s great on hot dogs, in sandwiches, or as a side dish. This pickled veggie is both tasty and good for your digestion.
Garlic
Pickled garlic loses some of its harsh bite and becomes slightly sweet and mellow. You can eat it straight from the jar or chop it up for salads and sauces. It’s packed with health benefits and a ton of flavor. Try adding herbs or chili flakes to spice things up. If you love garlic, this is a must-try.
Radishes
Radishes are peppery when raw, but pickling gives them a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. They also keep their crunch and develop a bright pink color. They’re great on tacos, grain bowls, or served as a snack. Quick-pickled radishes only take minutes to prepare. They’re a fun and flavorful twist on a simple veggie.
Peaches
Yes, even fruit can be pickled, and peaches are a great place to start. Pickled peaches are sweet, tangy, and perfect alongside grilled meats or cheeses. You can add cinnamon, cloves, or even a little chili for heat. They’re great for summertime meals and make beautiful gifts. The balance of sweet and sour is truly delicious.
Grapes
Pickled grapes are a surprising and refreshing treat. Their natural sweetness pairs well with a lightly spiced vinegar brine.
They’re great in salads, on cheese boards, or eaten on their own. The texture stays juicy, and the flavor is a mix of sweet, tart, and savory. Try these if you want a fun snack that’s a little different.
Zucchini
Pickled zucchini slices are soft, tangy, and full of flavor. They work well with herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil. You can slice them thin for sandwiches or keep them chunky for snacking. Pickling is a great way to use up extra zucchini from the garden. These are especially tasty when added to pasta salads or wraps.
Pineapple
Pickled pineapple adds a tropical punch to tacos, grilled meats, and rice dishes. The sweetness of the fruit balances beautifully with a spicy or tangy brine. You can add chili flakes or jalapeños for a spicy-sweet combo. It’s a unique way to bring bold flavor to your meals. This pickled fruit is sure to surprise and delight.
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However, with some creativity and resourcefulness, you can implement numerous clever hacks to reduce your never-ending grocery bill without sacrificing the quality or variety of your meals.
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