A glass jar filled with colorful refrigerator pickled vegetables, including cucumbers, carrots, radishes, and bell peppers, surrounded by fresh ingredients like garlic, dill, and spices.

Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables Recipe

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Introduction

Picture this: You have a surplus of fresh vegetables, and you don’t want them to go to waste. What if you could preserve them in a delicious, crunchy, tangy way? Enter Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables—a game-changer for home cooks who want an easy and quick way to enjoy pickles without the hassle of traditional canning. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create vibrant, flavorful pickled veggies that elevate any meal.

Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables Recipe

Recipe Card

Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables

Description: A quick and easy method to make crunchy, tangy, and delicious pickled vegetables at home. Perfect for snacking, topping sandwiches, or adding to salads!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 cups
  • Calories: Approximately 20 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups sliced cucumbers (or any mix of vegetables like carrots, radishes, or bell peppers)
  • 1 cup sliced red onions
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a milder taste)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • Fresh dill sprigs (optional for extra flavor)
All the fresh and flavorful ingredients you need to make Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables at home—simple, quick, and delicious!

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and slice your vegetables into uniform sizes for even pickling.
  2. Make the Brine: In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring to dissolve the sugar and salt. Remove from heat.
  3. Fill the Jars: Pack the vegetables, garlic, and spices into clean mason jars, leaving a little room at the top.
  4. Pour the Brine: Carefully pour the warm brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  5. Cool and Store: Let the jars cool to room temperature before sealing them with lids. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before enjoying for the best flavor.

Notes

  • These pickled vegetables stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 months.
  • Experiment with different vinegars for unique flavors.
  • For extra crunch, avoid overpacking the jars.

Why You’ll Love This Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables

  1. Quick and Easy – No canning required; just mix, pour, and refrigerate!
  2. Customizable – Use any vegetables or spices you love.
  3. Budget-Friendly – A great way to preserve fresh produce before it goes bad.
  4. Healthy and Low-Calorie – A guilt-free snack or condiment.
  5. Adds a Flavor Punch – Enhances meals with a tangy crunch.

Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Vinegar: White vinegar gives a sharp tang, while apple cider vinegar adds sweetness. Try rice vinegar for a subtle, Asian-inspired taste.
  • Vegetables: Cucumbers, carrots, onions, and radishes are classics, but you can also use green beans, cauliflower, or jalapeños.
  • Sugar: Balances acidity, but can be swapped with honey or maple syrup.
  • Salt: Kosher or sea salt works best; avoid iodized salt as it can make the brine cloudy.

How to Make Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables (Step-by-Step)

  1. Choose Fresh Veggies: Wash and slice your vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Prepare Jars: Clean mason jars with hot water and dry them thoroughly.
  3. Mix the Brine: Heat vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a saucepan until dissolved.
  4. Pack the Jars: Add your vegetables and spices to the jars.
  5. Pour the Brine: Fill each jar with brine until the veggies are submerged.
  6. Cool and Store: Let them sit at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 24 hours.

Expert Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Vegetables: The crunchier they start, the crunchier they’ll stay!
  • Let Them Marinate: For maximum flavor, allow at least 24 hours before eating.
  • Slice Evenly: Uniform pieces ensure consistent pickling.
  • Spice It Up: Experiment with different herbs and spices for a unique twist.
  • Avoid Metal Lids: Use plastic or lined metal lids to prevent corrosion from the vinegar.

Variations and Customizations for Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables

  • Spicy Pickles: Add more red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño.
  • Sweet Pickles: Increase sugar to 2 tablespoons for a sweeter touch.
  • Herbed Pickles: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves add depth of flavor.
  • Asian-Inspired: Use rice vinegar, ginger slices, and sesame seeds.

Storage and Reheating Instructions Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables

  • Storage: Keep pickled vegetables in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: No need to reheat—simply serve cold or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

  • Sandwich Topping: Adds crunch to burgers and sandwiches.
  • Charcuterie Board: Pairs well with cheeses and cured meats.
  • Salads: Toss into salads for a pop of acidity.
  • Tacos: Complements grilled meats and seafood tacos.
  • Rice Bowls: A delicious contrast to warm rice and protein.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables

How to make Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables recipe?

Making Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables is easy and quick! Simply slice fresh vegetables, prepare a vinegar-based brine, pack the vegetables and spices into jars, pour the brine over them, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before enjoying.

Can I reuse the pickling brine?

Yes! You can reuse the brine once, but ensure you boil and cool it before using it again for food safety.

How long do refrigerator pickled vegetables last?

Stored properly in the fridge, they can last up to 2 months.

Can I pickle different vegetables together?

Absolutely! Just make sure the vegetables have similar textures and pickling times.

Do I need to sterilize the jars?

Unlike traditional canning, sterilization isn’t necessary since these pickles are refrigerated, but clean jars are essential for freshness.

Related Recipes

  • Classic Dill Pickles
  • Spicy Pickled Jalapeños
  • Quick Pickled Red Onions
  • Korean Pickled Radish
  • Garlic & Herb Pickled Carrots

Conclusion

Refrigerator Pickled Vegetables are a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, crisp, and flavorful veggies anytime. This easy and quick recipe allows you to customize flavors to your liking while avoiding food waste. Try it today and add a tangy crunch to your favorite meals!

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