Pickled Zucchini Sticks
Crisp pickled zucchini sticks with a tangy vinegar flavor, perfect as a snack or appetizer, appealing to those who enjoy crunchy, savory preserves with a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss zucchini with salt.
- Let stand at room temperature for 1 hour.
- Drain liquid from zucchini.
- Combine vinegar, water, sugar, and pickling spices in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Add sliced onion and zucchini sticks to the pickling liquid.
- Simmer for a few minutes until flavors meld.
- Transfer to sterilized jars and let cool before refrigerating.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a few cloves of garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pickling liquid. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, adjust the sugar to taste. You can also substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar for a different flavor profile. Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to keep the pickles safe and fresh.
Serving Suggestions
These pickled zucchini sticks are a delightful snack on their own or can be served as a tangy side dish. They pair beautifully with Beef Roast Sandwiches or on a charcuterie board. Consider serving them alongside some creamy dips or as a topping for burgers and sandwiches for an added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickled zucchini sticks in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They can last for up to two weeks. There’s no need to reheat them; they are delicious served cold or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm dish, try incorporating them into salads or sandwiches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pickled Zucchini Sticks contains roughly 290 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1927mg per serving (84% 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 do the pickled zucchini sticks need to sit before they're ready to eat?
While you can eat them right after cooling, for the best flavor, let the pickled zucchini sticks sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before enjoying. This allows the flavors to meld and develop, resulting in a more delicious pickle.
Can I use other vegetables for this pickling recipe?
Absolutely! This pickling method works well with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers. Just adjust the pickling time based on the vegetable's texture and thickness to ensure they are properly pickled.
What can I do with leftover pickling liquid?
Don't discard the leftover pickling liquid! It can be used to pickle other vegetables, or as a flavorful base for salad dressings or marinades. Just strain it and store in the refrigerator for up to a month.
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).