Zucchini "Spiced Apple" Pickles
Bright and tangy zucchini pickles infused with warm cinnamon and cloves, perfect for adding a sweet-spiced crunch to relish trays or summer salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the peeled, seeded, and sliced zucchini in cold water and pickling lime overnight.
- Drain and rinse the zucchini thoroughly in clear, cold water the next morning.
- In a large kettle, bring the white vinegar and sugar to a boil.
- Add the prepared zucchini, oil of cinnamon, oil of cloves, and food coloring to the boiling mixture.
- Boil until the zucchini becomes clear, about 50 minutes.
- Pack the hot pickles into sterilized jars, seal them, and process in hot water for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the oils of cinnamon and cloves. If you don't have pickling lime, use kosher salt as an alternative, though it will slightly alter the texture. For a bit of heat, you can include a few crushed red pepper flakes. Always ensure jars are properly sterilized to ensure safety and longevity.
Serving Suggestions
These Zucchini 'Spiced Apple' Pickles make a unique addition to sandwiches and burgers, providing a sweet and spicy crunch. They pair beautifully with grilled meats or can be served alongside a cheese platter. For an interesting twist, try adding them as a topping to a salad or as a side with Pacific Pot Roast(Crock-Pot Recipe).
Storage & Reheating
Once sealed, store the pickles in a cool, dark place. They can last up to a year unopened. After opening, keep them in the refrigerator, where they should remain fresh for up to 2 months. For a delightful snack, serve them straight from the jar or add them to a charcuterie board.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini "Spiced Apple" Pickles contains roughly 582 calories, with 14g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value), and potassium (29% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 27g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other vegetables besides zucchini?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like cucumbers or green beans, but adjust the soaking time as needed. Each vegetable may have a different texture and flavor, so taste test to find your favorite combination.
What if I don't have oil of cinnamon or oil of cloves?
If you can't find oil of cinnamon or oil of cloves, you can substitute them with ground spices instead. Use 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves for a similar flavor profile, though the taste may be slightly different.
How do I know when the pickles are ready to eat?
The pickles will become clear during the boiling process, indicating they are ready. After processing and cooling, allow them to sit for at least a week for the flavors to meld before tasting. The longer they sit, the better they become!
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).