Giardiniera (jar-dih-NYAIR-uh) is an Italian word that means “from the garden.” Veggies from the garden (or these days, from the store) are pickled in vinegar, herbs and spices (sometimes oil is added).

The result is a pickled condiment used like other pickles on burgers, eggs and sandwiches, from the classic muffaletta of New Orleans to the Italian beef sandwich in Chicago to an everyday ham and cheese. (See more uses below.)

Giardiniera adds crunch, tang, spice and often, heat, to perk up anything it touches. Low in calories and high in veggie nutrition, it’s a guilt-free addition.

 
TYPES OF GIARDINIERA

Bell peppers, carrots, cauliflower, celery, hot chiles and pitted olives are common, but you can add whatever appeals to you, including non-traditional ingredients like mushrooms and okra.

In Italy, giardiniera is also called “sotto aceti,” which means “under vinegar,” a common term for pickled foods. It is often made with carrots, cauliflower, celery, onions and zucchini in red or white wine vinegar.

There are mild and hot versions, the latter employing hot chile peppers.

A muffaletta sandwich with giardiniera. Here’s the recipe. Photo courtesy Pillsbury.

You can buy giardiniera in almost any food
market. Photo courtesy Mezzetta.

Enjoy it at home and bring a jar full as a house gift. After you make the first batch, you’ll be able to adjust the ingredients to create your ideal “signature” blend.

You can cut the vegetables as you like, from chunky to a more finely diced relish.

Ingredients

 
*Use good vinegar, and never distilled white vinegar.

 
Preparation

1. COMBINE water and salt in a non-reactive bowl; mix to dissolve. Add the vegetables and garlic. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

2. DRAIN and rinse the vegetables. In a clean bowl, mix together the vinegar with the oregano and pepper. Add the vegetables and mix to combine. Allow to marinate overnight in the fridge, or up to two days.

3. MOVE to an airtight container. Giardiniera improves over time, and will keep in the fridge for 2 to 3 weeks or longer.
 
THE QUESTION OF OIL

Classic giardiniera does not contain oil, but some people enjoy the extra richness it provides.

Note that if you use oil in your marinade, it will cloud up in the fridge. But will become clear again at room temperature.