Description
This Pickled Asparagus recipe offers a simple and refreshing way to preserve fresh asparagus with a tangy, herb-infused brine. Perfect as a crunchy snack or a flavorful addition to salads and sandwiches, these pickled spears develop their distinctive taste after a day or two in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
Pickled Asparagus Ingredients
- 14 Spears asparagus
- ¾ Cup white vinegar
- ½ Cup water
- ½ Teaspoon salt
- ½ Teaspoon sugar
- ¼ Teaspoon pickling spice (such as mustard seeds and coriander)
- 1 Sprig fresh dill (or ½ Teaspoon dried dill)
Instructions
- Trim asparagus: Start by trimming off the tough, woody ends of the asparagus so the spears fit neatly in your jar or bottle, and stand the asparagus upright with the tips facing up for a prettier presentation after pickling.
- Prepare the brine: In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, salt, sugar, and pickling spice. Heat the mixture just until it begins to boil and the salt and sugar are fully dissolved, then turn off the heat and let the brine cool slightly until warm but not hot.
- Add dill to jar: Place a fresh dill sprig inside the jar with the asparagus or add dried dill to the brine before pouring to infuse it with that bright, herby flavor.
- Pour brine over asparagus: Carefully pour the warm brine over the asparagus spears until they are completely submerged, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top of the jar. Tap the jar gently on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Cool and refrigerate: Let the jar cool to room temperature, then seal tightly with a lid and refrigerate.
- Chill and develop flavors: Allow the pickled asparagus to chill in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours, preferably 2 days, to develop the full flavor. The pickled asparagus can be stored refrigerated for up to two weeks as long as the spears remain fully submerged in brine.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm asparagus for the best texture in pickling.
- If you prefer a spicier pickle, add a few peppercorns or chili flakes to the pickling spice blend.
- Ensure asparagus tips are always submerged in brine to prevent spoilage.
- Pickled asparagus pairs wonderfully with cheeses, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards.
- Adjust sugar quantity based on your desired sweetness level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Pickles & Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
