Welcome to my newest culinary experiment – refrigerator pickled green beans, a crunchy delight with a zesty punch!
In the spirit of innovation and my passion for pickling, I’ve ventured beyond the conventional to bring a fresh, easy-to-make twist on pickling.
This time, it’s all about the underrated star of the vegetable world: green beans. Transforming these crisp greens into a jar of pickled perfection has redefined my refrigerator staples.
Armed with just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, join me in elevating green beans from simple side dishes to your new favorite snack!
Refrigerator Pickled Green Beans Recipe
Equipment
- 1 16 oz Pickling Jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 lb Green beans
- 4 Ounces Vinegar – White vinegar or vinegar of choice.
- 4 Ounces Water – See note at the end of the recipe.
- 1 tablespoon Sea salt or kosher salt – Check the label to ensure your sea salt or kosher salt is pure, without anti-caking agents or iodine, as they can impact the flavor and look of your vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon Sugar- For a low-carb or keto option try using monk fruit or other type of sweeteners.
- Optional – 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Optional – 1 bay leaf
- Optional – 1 garlic clove
Instructions
- Cut green beans to desired length
- Add the green beans to a sterile, clean jar.
- Combine water, white vinegar, sugar, and salt into a small pot. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- Carefully pour the hot brine over the green beans. Make sure they are fully submerged.
- Allow the jar to sit at room temperature uncovered for 1-2 hours, then seal and refrigerate.
- Allow the green beans to pickle for at least 24 hours for optimal taste, though 48 hours is recommended for the flavors to develop fully. Store them in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.
Notes
Nutrition
The Perfect Partners for Pickled Green Beans
As I’ve been experimenting with my refrigerator pickled green beans, I’ve discovered they’re not just a solo act; they play beautifully in harmony with other dishes.
Here are some meal pairings where they’ve elevated every bite with their vibrant tang and crunch.
- Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken: The light, citrusy flavors of grilled chicken marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs create a delightful contrast with the tangy crunch of pickled green beans. This combination is perfect for a summer evening dinner.
- Quinoa Salad with Fresh Veggies: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with crisp vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, dressed in a light vinaigrette. Adding your pickled green beans to the mix introduces an unexpected zing that elevates the salad.
- Seared Salmon with Dill Sauce: The fatty richness of seared salmon, complemented by a delicate dill sauce, pairs beautifully with the acidity and crispness of pickled green beans. This duo is perfect for an elegant, nutritious meal.
- Charcuterie and Cheese Board: Transform a simple charcuterie and cheese board into an extraordinary feast by including pickled green beans alongside an assortment of meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruits. Their crisp texture and tangy flavor make them a standout addition, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy, salty, and sweet elements on the board.
If you’re a fan of our pickled green beans, why not mix things up? Our pickled carrots and green beans offer a colorful and flavorful upgrade to your snack lineup!
Zesty Twists to Jazz Up Your Refrigerator Pickled Green Beans
Adding spices and aromatics can elevate the flavor profile of your pickled green beans.
Here are eight optional additions that I commonly use that will bring complexity and depth to your recipe:
- Mustard Seeds: A teaspoon of mustard seeds can add a tangy, slightly spicy kick, enhancing the overall zestiness of the pickles.
- Dill: Fresh or dried dill lends a fragrant, slightly sweet and grassy note, perfect for creating a classic pickle flavor.
- Garlic: A few cloves of crushed garlic will contribute a robust, aromatic warmth, making the pickles more savory and complex.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a spicy touch, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat that lingers with each bite.
- Coriander Seeds: Adding a teaspoon of coriander seeds can infuse the pickles with a warm, citrusy flavor that complements the vinegar base beautifully.
- Bay Leaves: A bay leaf or two offers a subtle layer of flavor, adding hints of floral and herbal notes that deepen the pickles’ taste profile.
- Black Peppercorns: Whole black peppercorns bring a sharp, earthy heat that contrasts nicely with the vinegar’s acidity and the green beans’ crispness.
- Allspice Berries: A few allspice berries can add a warm, aromatic sweetness with undertones of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon, offering a unique twist to your pickles.
I’m all about the pickling passion, and I’m here to say: put your own twist on it! Playing with various spices and aromatics is your secret sauce to crafting a batch that screams-YUM!
Remember, the vinegar vibe is important too – it throws in its own flavor flair into the mix.
For a deep dive into the world of vinegar and how each type can jazz up your jars, take a peek at my ultimate vinegar guide!
Hop on the Flavor Express!
Step into the colorful realm of pickling alongside us! It’s always a thrill to see the magic you create with your pickled goodies.
Whether they’ve become the new household rave or you’ve spun them with your own blend of spices, your experiences are the heartbeat of this adventure.
Join our circle of flavor aficionados! Share your victories in pickling, shoot your questions, or swap savvy tips – we’re knitting a community that’s crazy about the art of preserving.
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