Shortcut Pickled Beets
Quick and tangy pickled beets with cloves and optional onion, offering a vibrant flavor that complements salads, cheeses, or serves as a colorful side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine beet juice, vinegar, sugar, salt, cloves, bay leaf (if using), and onion (if using).
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Place the hot beet liquid and drained beets into a container with a cover.
- Cool the mixture, then refrigerate for 24 to 36 hours.
- Remove cloves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker flavor infusion, let the beets marinate in the pickling liquid for longer than 36 hours. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for a milder taste or use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness. Consider adding spices like mustard seeds or dill for an extra flavor kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pickled beets as a tangy side dish or add them to salads for a pop of color and flavor. They pair beautifully with a hearty meal or can be enjoyed on a charcuterie board. Consider serving them alongside the refreshing Vitamin Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pickled beets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to develop over time. If you want to enjoy them warm, gently reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shortcut Pickled Beets contains roughly 294 calories, with 6g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (93% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1941mg 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
Can I use fresh beets instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh beets! Boil or roast them until tender, then slice and follow the same pickling process. Just ensure to reserve enough beet juice for the recipe.
How long do pickled beets last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, pickled beets can last up to two weeks. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, such as off smells or changes in texture.
Can I add other vegetables to the pickling mix?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or onions to your pickling mixture for additional flavor and color. They will absorb the pickling liquid and create a delicious mix.
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).