Hot Italian giardiniera is a spicy and tangy condiment made with pickled vegetables, typically served as a topping or side dish. This flavorful mix adds a zesty kick to sandwiches, salads, and antipasto platters. Making your own giardiniera at home allows you to customize the level of spiciness and the selection of vegetables to suit your taste. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a classic Hot Italian giardiniera that will elevate your dishes with its bold flavors. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Hot Italian Giardiniera
For the Pickling Liquid:
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For the Giardiniera:
- 1 large cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 4-6 carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2-3 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 4-6 serrano peppers, thinly sliced (optional, for extra heat)
How to Make Hot Italian Giardiniera
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and prepare all the vegetables as directed.
- Place them in a large bowl, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Pickling Liquid
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, bay leaves, black peppercorns, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- Remove the pickling liquid from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Pickle the Vegetables
- Pour the warm pickling liquid over the prepared vegetables, ensuring they are completely submerged.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Store the Giardiniera
- Once the giardiniera has marinated, transfer it to sterilized jars using a slotted spoon, leaving behind the pickling liquid.
- Press down on the vegetables to pack them tightly into the jars.
- Pour enough of the pickling liquid over the vegetables to cover them completely.
- Seal the jars with lids and store them in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
About the Main Ingredients
Cauliflower
Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable that absorbs the flavors of the pickling liquid, adding a crisp texture and mild flavor to the giardiniera. It is also rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, making it a nutritious addition to this condiment.
Carrots
Carrots add a touch of sweetness to the giardiniera and provide a vibrant color. They are high in vitamin A, which is important for eye health, as well as antioxidants that help protect against chronic diseases.
Celery
Celery adds a refreshing crunch to the giardiniera and complements the other flavors. It is low in calories and rich in fiber, making it a healthy addition to this condiment.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers add sweetness and color to the giardiniera. They are also high in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports skin health.
Red Onion
Red onion adds a sharp and slightly sweet flavor to the giardiniera. It is also a good source of antioxidants and compounds that may help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
Serrano Peppers (Optional)
Serrano peppers add heat to the giardiniera. They are similar in flavor to jalapeños but hotter, so use them sparingly if you prefer a milder giardiniera.