Aunt Laura'S Zucchini Pickles
Aunt Laura's Zucchini Pickles are tangy, sweet, and crunchy, perfect for summer snacking or adding a flavorful touch to sandwiches and salads. Ideal for those who love bold pickles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak peeled zucchini in 2 gallons of cold water with 2 cups of dehydrated lime.
- Drain and wash the zucchini at least 6 to 7 times to remove all traces of lime.
- Let the zucchini sit in cold water for 3 hours, then drain.
- Mix sugar, pickling spice, mustard seed, and 1 quart of cider vinegar to the zucchini.
- Let stand overnight.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Seal the hot mixture in sterilized jars.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Aunt Laura's Zucchini Pickles, consider adding sliced onions or garlic to the mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, include red pepper flakes. Ensure you thoroughly wash the zucchini after soaking to avoid any bitterness from the lime. If you can't find dehydrated lime, you can use citric acid as a substitute, adjusting the quantity to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Laura's Zucchini Pickles are a delightful addition to any picnic spread or barbecue. They pair beautifully with Granny Evelyn's Easy Sweet Pickles for a flavorful contrast. Serve them alongside grilled meats or as a topping on sandwiches. For a refreshing meal, consider incorporating them into an Apple-Broccoli Salad to balance their tangy flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of zucchini pickles in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last for several weeks. To enjoy them at their best, let the flavors meld for a few days before tasting. They don't require reheating, making them a convenient addition to meals or snacks.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Laura'S Zucchini Pickles contains roughly 692 calories, with 13g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (219% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), and potassium (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1854mg per serving (81% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store these pickles?
If sealed properly, Aunt Laura's Zucchini Pickles can be stored for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within 4 to 6 weeks for optimal flavor.
Can I use other vegetables for pickling?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, or even green beans. Just adjust the soaking time and ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even pickling.
Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?
Absolutely! To reduce the sweetness, simply decrease the amount of sugar in the recipe. You can also balance the flavors by adding a bit more vinegar or incorporating some spicy elements for a tangy kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).