Name: Quick Pickled Asparagus Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 3 h 16 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 30 asparagus spears; ⅓ cup coarse salt; 2 qts cold water; 2 cups white vinegar; ⅔ cup sugar; 1 tsp coarse salt; 1 tsp mustard seed; 2 tsp dill weed; 1 white onion; 2 heads garlic; ½ tsp chili pepper flakes; 2 sprigs fresh dill

This quick asparagus pickle recipe is a delightful alternative to the usual pickle recipes. It's a perfect blend of crisp asparagus spears, tangy vinegar, a hint of sweet sugar, and a kick of chili pepper flakes. It's easy to make and it's a great way to enjoy asparagus in a whole new way. Have it on hand to perk up salads or sandwiches, or even as a unique side dish.

Photos of Quick Pickled Asparagus Recipe

Most of these ingredients should be readily available in your pantry. If not, the supermarket is sure to stock them all. Do look for fresh asparagus spears, ideally those that are thin and crisp. Coarse salt is another ingredient to note. It’s different from table salt and has chunkier crystals which help in pickling. Mustard seeds and dill weed can be found in the spice aisle and white vinegar in the condiment aisle.

Ingredients for Quick Asparagus Pickle

Asparagus spears: The main ingredient, provides a crisp texture and fresh taste.

Coarse salt: Used in the initial preparation of the asparagus and in the brine.

White vinegar: It is the acidic component in the pickle which helps preserve the asparagus.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.

Mustard seed: Adds a tangy flavor to the pickle.

Dill weed: Provides a warm, grassy taste.

White onion: Gives a sweet and slightly pungent flavor.

Garlic: Adds a spicy, pungent kick to the pickle.

Chili pepper flakes: Gives the pickle a spicy kick.

Fresh dill: It gives a fresh and slightly bitter undertone.

One reader, Emmey Arsenault says:

This quick asparagus pickle recipe is a game-changer! The asparagus turns out perfectly tangy and flavorful, and it's so easy to make. The combination of dill, garlic, and a hint of chili pepper gives it a unique and delicious taste. I can't get enough of it!

Emmey Arsenault

Key Techniques for Making Quick Asparagus Pickles

How to quick pickle asparagus: This technique involves briefly cooking the asparagus in a hot pickling liquid to infuse it with flavor and preserve it.

How to trim asparagus spears: Trim the cut end of the asparagus spears to remove any tough or woody parts.

How to make the brine: Combine vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard seed, dill weed, onion slices, and garlic in a saucepan and bring to a boil, then simmer.

How to quick pickle asparagus: After preparing the brine, drain the salted water from the asparagus and add it to the hot brine mixture. Simmer for 4 to 6 minutes until the asparagus turns a dull shade of green.

How to pack the jars: Place the asparagus in wide mouth jars, tuck in dill sprigs and garlic cloves, and sprinkle in red pepper flakes.

How to store the pickled asparagus: Close the jars with airtight lids and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before using. The pickled asparagus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

How To Make Quick Pickled Asparagus

Enjoy the crunch and flavor of asparagus all year round with this crunchy, delicious, garlic and dill flavored pickled asparagus.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 6 minutes

Chill Time: 3 hours

Total: 3 hours 16 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

30asparagus spears,trimmed
⅓cupcoarse salt
2qtscold water
2cupswhite vinegar,distilled
⅔cupsugar
1tspcoarse salt
1tspmustard seed
2tspdill weed
1white onion,sliced into rings
2headsgarlic,separated into whole cloves. peeled, divided
½tspchili pepper flakes
2sprigsfresh dill

Instructions

Trim the cut end of the asparagus spears.
Place the asparagus in a large bowl with ⅓ cup of salt, and cover with water. Let stand in salted water while preparing the brine.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the vinegar, sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, mustard seed, dill weed, onion slices, and 1 head of garlic cloves.
Bring the brine mixture to a boil, and boil for 1 to 2 minutes.
Turn down to a simmer.

Quick Pickling:

Drain the salted water from the asparagus, and add the asparagus to the sauce pan with the brine mixture
Simmer for 4 to 6 minutes until the asparagus turns into a dull shade of green.
Using tongs, remove the asparagus from the mixture and place in two pint-sized wide mouth jars tip side up.
Tuck one dill sprig and half a head of peeled garlic cloves into each jar, and sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
Pour the hot pickling liquid into the jars, filling to within ¼-inch of the rim.
Close the jar with an airtight lid, and place in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours to cool. Use within 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 113.71kcal
Fat: 0.25g
Saturated Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.06g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.09g
Carbohydrates: 24.74g
Fiber: 1.84g
Sugar: 18.60g
Protein: 2.38g
Sodium: 934.79mg
Calcium: 54.07mg
Potassium: 203.12mg
Iron: 1.63mg
Vitamin A: 25.41µg
Vitamin C: 9.27mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Asparagus Pickles

When preparing the asparagus for pickling, it's important to ensure that the spears are fresh and firm. The quality of your asparagus will greatly affect the final product. If the asparagus is limp or old, it won't pickle well and could result in a mushy texture. Also, when trimming the asparagus, try to cut them to a length that fits your jars. This will make it easier to pack them in neatly and ensure they are fully submerged in the brine.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the asparagus and brine the night before to save time on the day of pickling.

Quick boil: Boil the asparagus for a shorter time to maintain a crisp texture and save time.

Efficient assembly: Use wide-mouth jars for easy packing and pouring of the pickling liquid.

Chop and store: Pre-chop the onion and garlic to save time during the pickling process.

Double batch: Make a larger quantity of pickled asparagus to have extra on hand for future use.

Label and date: Properly label and date the jars for easy identification and tracking of freshness.

Streamline cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize post-pickling cleanup time.

Organized workspace: Set up all ingredients and tools in an organized manner to work efficiently.

Share the task: Enlist a friend or family member to help with the pickling process for a quicker and more enjoyable experience.

Substitute Ingredients For Quick Pickled Asparagus Recipe

asparagus spears - Substitute with green beans: Green beans have a similar texture and can be pickled in the same way as asparagus.
white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a slightly fruity flavor that can complement the pickling process and add a different dimension to the flavor profile.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and a unique flavor to the pickling liquid.
mustard seed - Substitute with coriander seeds: Coriander seeds have a slightly citrusy and floral flavor that can add a different complexity to the pickling liquid.
dill weed - Substitute with tarragon: Tarragon has a similar aromatic quality to dill and can provide a different herbaceous note to the pickled asparagus.
white onion - Substitute with red onion: Red onion can add a slightly different flavor and color to the pickled asparagus.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor compared to garlic and can provide a different dimension to the pickling liquid.
chili pepper flakes - Substitute with black peppercorns: Black peppercorns can add a different level of heat and a subtle spiciness to the pickling liquid.

Presentation Ideas for Quick Pickled Asparagus

Elevate the asparagus spears: Gently arrange the asparagus spears in a circular pattern on the plate, creating a visually appealing display.
Garnish with dill sprigs: Place a few delicate dill sprigs strategically around the asparagus to add a touch of freshness and elegance to the dish.
Incorporate pickled garlic cloves: Position the pickled garlic cloves alongside the asparagus to infuse the plate with bursts of tangy flavor.
Drizzle with pickling liquid reduction: Create an artful drizzle of the pickling liquid reduction around the asparagus, adding a pop of color and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of chili pepper flakes: Sprinkle a few chili pepper flakes sparingly over the dish to provide a hint of heat and a visually striking contrast.
Serve on a chilled plate: Present the dish on a chilled plate to maintain the optimal temperature and enhance the overall dining experience.
Accompany with a decorative napkin: Place the plate on a decorative napkin to add an extra touch of sophistication and attention to detail.

Essential Tools for Making Asparagus Pickles

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle used for making sauces and heating liquids.
Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items.
Wide mouth jars: Glass containers with wide openings used for storing pickled foods.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Asparagus Pickles

These quick pickled asparagus spears can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container or jar.
Make sure the asparagus is completely covered by the pickling liquid to ensure maximum flavor and shelf life.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pickled asparagus for up to 6 months:
- Transfer the cooled, pickled asparagus to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
To thaw frozen pickled asparagus, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.
Once thawed, consume the pickled asparagus within 1 week for the best texture and flavor.
Note: Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the asparagus, making it softer than when freshly pickled. However, the flavor should remain delicious and perfect for adding to salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards.

Interesting Fact About Asparagus Pickles

Asparagus pickles are a great source of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health.

Is Making Asparagus Pickles at Home Cost-Effective?

This quick asparagus pickle recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Asparagus is a seasonal vegetable, making it budget-friendly. The additional ingredients like vinegar, sugar, and spices are pantry staples, minimizing the overall cost. This recipe yields approximately 30 asparagus spears, making it suitable for a family. The estimated cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10, making it an economical choice. The versatility and flavor of this pickle make it a great addition to various dishes, earning a solid 9/10 rating.

Is This Asparagus Pickle Recipe Healthy?

This quick asparagus pickle recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side:

Asparagus is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, folate, and fiber
Garlic and onions offer prebiotics and immune-boosting properties
Dill provides antioxidants and may aid in digestion

However, there are some less healthy components:

The high sodium content from the salt and pickling brine can contribute to elevated blood pressure and water retention
Sugar in the pickling liquid adds empty calories and may spike blood sugar levels
Vinegar, while low in calories, is highly acidic and can erode tooth enamel over time

To make this recipe healthier, consider reducing the amount of salt and sugar in the pickling brine. You could experiment with using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to maintain sweetness without the added calories. Additionally, try using a mixture of water and vinegar to lower the acidity level.

For an extra nutritional boost, add other vegetables to the mix, such as:

Sliced carrots
Cauliflower florets
Radishes
Green beans

These additional veggies will provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the pickles. Finally, be mindful of portion sizes when consuming pickled foods, as the sodium content can add up quickly.

Editor's Opinion on This Asparagus Pickle Recipe

The quick asparagus pickle recipe is a delightful way to preserve the fresh flavors of asparagus. The combination of vinegar, sugar, and spices creates a tangy and slightly sweet brine that perfectly complements the crisp asparagus spears. The addition of garlic, onion, and dill infuses the pickles with aromatic and savory notes. The quick pickling method ensures that the asparagus retains its crunch while absorbing the flavorful brine. This recipe offers a simple and delicious way to enjoy the seasonal bounty of asparagus, and the pickles make a versatile and tasty addition to salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards.

Enhance Your Quick Pickled Asparagus Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn on the cob, brushed with a savory herb butter.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of juicy berries, tropical fruits, and a drizzle of honey-lime dressing.

Similar Recipes to Try Besides Asparagus Pickles

Savory Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and flavorful, this savory mushroom risotto is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the creamy texture of the risotto make for a truly satisfying dish.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This honey garlic glazed salmon is a delicious and healthy option for dinner. The sweet and savory glaze perfectly complements the tender and flaky salmon, making it a crowd-pleaser for any meal.

Fresh Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing: This fresh fruit salad with citrus dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish that is perfect for any summer gathering. The combination of sweet and tangy fruits, paired with the zesty citrus dressing, makes for a delightful and healthy dessert option.

Recommended Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Asparagus Pickles

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon with Lemon Dill Sauce: Impress your guests with a perfectly grilled salmon fillet, topped with a tangy and refreshing lemon dill sauce. The combination of the smoky charred flavor from the grill and the bright, herbaceous sauce is sure to elevate your dining experience.

Mushroom Risotto with Truffle Oil: Indulge in a creamy and luxurious mushroom risotto, drizzled with aromatic truffle oil. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the decadent truffle oil create a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner party.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy Greek yogurt, fresh mixed berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Why trust this Quick Pickled Asparagus Recipe:

This quick asparagus pickle recipe is a delightful way to preserve the freshness and flavor of asparagus. The combination of vinegar, sugar, and spices creates a tangy and aromatic brine that infuses the asparagus with irresistible taste. The use of fresh dill and garlic adds depth and complexity to the pickles, enhancing their overall appeal. The step-by-step instructions ensure that the asparagus is properly pickled, resulting in a crisp texture and vibrant color. Trust this recipe to elevate your culinary repertoire and impress your guests with its delightful tangy and savory flavors.

Want to learn more about pickling asparagus or share your own tips and tricks? Join the discussion in the Food Preservation forum and let's talk about this delicious Quick Pickled Asparagus Recipe!

FAQ:

How long can I store the pickled asparagus?

You can store the pickled asparagus in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It's best to consume them within this time frame for the best flavor and texture.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the pickled asparagus?

Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to customize the heat level to your liking.

Can I use this pickling brine for other vegetables?

Absolutely! This pickling brine can be used for pickling a variety of vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, and green beans. It adds a delicious tangy flavor to different veggies.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the pickled asparagus?

Yes, it's important to refrigerate the pickled asparagus to maintain their quality and prolong their shelf life. Keeping them chilled helps preserve their crunch and flavor.

Can I reuse the pickling liquid for another batch of asparagus?

While it's possible to reuse the pickling liquid, it's best to prepare a fresh batch for the best results. Reusing the pickling liquid may affect the flavor and quality of the next batch of pickled asparagus.