Go Back
Homemade Giardiniera Recipe photo

Homemade Giardiniera Recipe

This Homemade Giardiniera is a zesty, colorful condiment that adds crunch and flavor to any meal!
Prep Time30 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Giardiniera:

  • 1 small head cauliflower trimmed into small florets
  • 3 ribs celery small-diced
  • 4 medium carrots peeled and small diced
  • 1 medium red bell pepper seeded and small diced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper seeded and small diced
  • 1 medium jalapeño seeded and small diced
  • 1 medium serrano pepper seeded and small diced
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1 can green olives reserve the olive juice brine (should be 1 cup)
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 1 cup avocado or neutral-flavored oil
  • 1 tablespoon dry oregano
  • 2 teaspoons celery seed
  • 1/3 cup coarse salt

Instructions

Instructions:

  • Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Trim the cauliflower into small florets, dice the celery, carrots, bell peppers, jalapeño, and serrano peppers into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely. Place all these prepared vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
  • Drain the can of green olives, reserving the juice. Chop the olives into smaller pieces and add them to the bowl with the other vegetables. The olives will add a unique briny flavor to the mix.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the reserved olive juice brine, white vinegar, olive oil, avocado oil, dry oregano, celery seed, and coarse salt. Whisk the mixture until the salt has dissolved and everything is well combined.
  • Pour the brine over the vegetable mixture, ensuring that all the vegetables are coated. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. The brine not only flavors the veggies but also helps in the pickling process.
  • Transfer the giardiniera mixture into sterilized glass jars, pressing down lightly to remove any air pockets. Ensure that the vegetables are submerged in the brine. Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator.
  • For the best flavor, let your giardiniera sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before using it. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. The longer it sits, the better it gets!

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Glass jars
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk

Notes

  • Don’t skip the salt: It’s crucial for flavor and preservation.
  • Avoid using overly soft vegetables: Fresh, crisp vegetables are key to the texture.
  • Don’t rush the marinating process: Allowing the giardiniera to sit enhances the flavors.