Easy Pickled Peppers

$For this recipe, I like to use small bell peppers. They come in many colors like red, yellow, and green. If you want some heat, you can try other pepper types, such as jalapeños or banana peppers. Each type gives a unique taste and spice level. The pickling liquid is what makes these peppers flavorful. Here are the main ingredients: - 4-5 small bell peppers (a variety of colors), sliced - 1 cup apple cider vinegar - 1 cup water - 2 tablespoons sugar - 1 tablespoon salt Each of these ingredients works together to create a sweet and tangy brine. The seasonings add extra zing to the pickled peppers. Here’s what you need: - 1 teaspoon mustard seeds - 1 teaspoon black peppercorns - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat) These spices enhance the flavor and give the peppers a pleasant crunch. You can always adjust the spices to suit your taste. Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can check out the Full Recipe for the complete steps to make these easy pickled peppers! Start by washing your bell peppers under cold water. This step gets rid of dirt and germs. Next, remove the stems and cut the peppers in half. Scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Slice the peppers into rings or strips, based on what you like. I love using a mix of colors for a fun look! Grab a medium saucepan and combine your apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Heat the mixture over medium heat. Stir it gently until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. This process usually takes about 5 minutes. Once it simmers, take it off the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Now it’s time to fill your clean jars. Pack the sliced peppers tightly in the jars, but don’t squish them. Leave a bit of space at the top. After that, pour the cooled pickling brine over the peppers. Make sure they are completely submerged. Seal the jars with lids tightly. Let them cool to room temperature before placing them in the fridge. For the best flavor, wait at least 24 hours before enjoying your delicious pickled peppers. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. To make your pickled peppers even better, think about adding more spices. Try adding: - 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds for a citrus touch. - 1 teaspoon of cumin for warmth. - A few whole cloves for a sweet note. Using fresh herbs like dill also boosts flavor. Toss in some sprigs while packing the jars. Dill adds a fresh taste and smells great! A colorful display makes your pickled peppers pop! Here’s how to create a feast for the eyes: - Use peppers of different colors: red, yellow, and green. - Layer the peppers in jars, alternating colors for a vibrant look. Serve them in a clear glass bowl. This way, guests can see the bright colors. You can also garnish with fresh dill sprigs on top. It adds a lovely touch! Safety is key when pickling. Always sterilize your jars before use. Here are some steps: - Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water. - Rinse well and then place them in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. This keeps your pickled peppers safe to eat. Also, make sure to use clean utensils when handling the peppers. This prevents any unwanted germs in your jars. Following these tips keeps your pickled peppers fresh and tasty! {{image_2}} You can change the heat of your pickled peppers with simple swaps. Start by using spicier peppers like jalapeños or serranos instead of sweet bell peppers. These add a nice kick! If you want more heat, you can also adjust the crushed red pepper flakes. Just add more or less based on your taste. Changing the flavor of your pickled peppers is easy. You can add herbs like oregano or thyme for a fresh twist. Spices like coriander seeds or cumin can also work well. You might try using different liquids too. Rice vinegar brings a milder taste, while white vinegar gives a sharper flavor. Experiment with what you like best! Pickled peppers are great for many dishes. You can add them to sandwiches for a crunchy bite. They brighten up salads with their color and tang. Try them on tacos or in grain bowls for extra flavor. The options are endless! For more ideas on how to use your pickled peppers, check out the Full Recipe. To keep your pickled peppers fresh, store them in the fridge. This is the best way to maintain flavor and crunch. Use clean, sterilized jars to prevent spoilage. After you make the zesty quick pickled peppers, let them cool to room temperature. Then, seal the jars with lids securely. Your peppers will stay fresh for up to two weeks in the fridge. If you want to keep your pickled peppers longer, consider canning them. Canning can make your peppers shelf-stable. Follow safe canning practices to avoid spoilage. Use the hot water bath method for best results. Make sure to use clean jars and lids. Label your jars with the date, so you know when you made them. Always check your pickled peppers before eating. If you see mold or off smells, it's time to toss them. Also, if the brine looks cloudy, that can be a sign of spoilage. If the texture becomes mushy or slimy, do not eat them. Trust your senses; they are the best tools for keeping your food safe. Pickled peppers last about 2 weeks in the fridge. The vinegar helps keep them fresh. After you open them, always check for signs of spoilage. If they smell off or have a strange color, it’s best to throw them away. You can reuse pickling brine, but be careful. Make sure it has no food bits left in it. Strain the brine after use, and store it in the fridge. Use it within a week to keep things safe. Reusing brine works best for quick pickles, not for long-term storage. The best peppers for pickling are small bell peppers. They are sweet and crisp. You can also use jalapeños for some heat. Other options are banana peppers or pepperoncini. Choose a mix for a fun flavor and color. Each type adds its own taste to your pickles. You've learned how to make delicious pickled peppers. We explored fresh peppers, brine, and spices. I shared step-by-step instructions for making and storing your pickles safely. With tips for flavor, visual appeal, and safety, you can create tasty variations. Enjoy your pickled peppers on sandwiches or as appetizers. Remember, proper storage helps keep them fresh. Happy pickling!$

Elevate your meals with these zesty quick pickled peppers! In just 15 minutes, you can create a burst of flavor that adds color and crunch to any dish. Using simple ingredients like apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a mix of spices, you’ll have delicious pickles ready to enjoy within 24 hours. Perfect for appetizers or toppings, these vibrant peppers will impress your guests. Click to explore the full recipe and start pickling today!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

4-5 small bell peppers (variety of colors), sliced

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup water

2 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1 teaspoon black peppercorns

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Fresh dill sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions

Start by washing the bell peppers. Remove the stems and seeds, and slice the peppers into rings or strips, depending on your preference.

In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the pickling liquid cool for about 10 minutes.

Pack the sliced peppers into clean, sterilized jars, filling them to the top. You can alternate colors for a visually appealing display.

Pour the cooled pickling liquid over the peppers, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave a little space at the top of the jar.

Seal the jars with lids and let them cool to room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator.

Allow the peppers to pickle for at least 24 hours before using for best flavor. They will keep well in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: Makes 2 jars

- Presentation Tips: Serve the pickled peppers in a glass bowl for a colorful appetizer, garnishing with fresh dill sprigs for added aroma and visual appeal.