Appetizer Recipes

By Taryn Chavez

20 Spicy Pickled Asparagus Recipes for Summer

Summer has arrived, and with it, the perfect excuse to get creative with your vegetables. One of our favorite ways to enjoy the season’s bounty is by pickling it – and we’re not talking about just any ordinary pickles! This year, we’re going bold with a collection of 20 spicy pickled asparagus recipes that will add a kick to your summer meals.

From classic combinations like garlic and dill to more adventurous flavors like jalapeño and lime, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and spicy or smoky chipotle, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab some fresh asparagus and get ready to add some heat to your plate with these mouth-watering recipes.

Garlic and Dill Pickled Asparagus

Garlic and Dill Pickled Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of dill, pungency of garlic, and crunch of fresh asparagus.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus, garlic, and dill.
2. In a separate saucepan, combine vinegar, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring to dissolve salt.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pour the pickling liquid over the asparagus mixture, making sure they’re fully submerged.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 1 week before serving.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)

Spicy Sriracha Pickled Asparagus

Spicy Sriracha Pickled Asparagus
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this addictive and spicy twist on classic pickles!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus, vinegar, water, sugar, Sriracha sauce, salt, and black pepper.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
3. After 24 hours, transfer the pickles to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 6 months.

Cooking Time:

– Initial soaking time: 24 hours
– Storage time: Up to 6 months

Lemon-Pepper Pickled Asparagus Spears

Lemon-Pepper Pickled Asparagus Spears
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your meals with these tangy and refreshing pickled asparagus spears. Perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or serving as a snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
– 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Rinse the asparagus spears under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, lemon juice, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack the asparagus spears into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the asparagus, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (pickling liquid) + 1 day (chilling time)

Honey-Mustard Pickled Asparagus

Honey-Mustard Pickled Asparagus
Add a sweet and tangy twist to your asparagus with this easy-to-make pickling recipe. Perfect for springtime meals or as a snack, these honey-mustard pickles will be a delightful addition to any plate.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons (30g) honey
– 2 tablespoons (30g) Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Trim the asparagus spears and remove any tough or woody ends.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Pack the asparagus spears into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the asparagus, leaving about 1/2 inch (1cm) of headspace.
6. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Jalapeño and Lime Pickled Asparagus

Jalapeño and Lime Pickled Asparagus
Add a tangy twist to your asparagus with this spicy and refreshing pickling recipe.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) lime juice
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus and sliced jalapeño.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the vinegar, lime juice, sugar, and salt over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the asparagus mixture.
4. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
6. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (initial pickling) + 2 hours (refrigeration)

Rosemary and Red Pepper Pickled Asparagus

Rosemary and Red Pepper Pickled Asparagus
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this unique pickling recipe, combining the earthy notes of rosemary with the spicy kick of red peppers.

Ingredients:
• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) white vinegar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 sprigs rosemary, chopped
• 1 red pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, honey, and olive oil.
2. Add the asparagus, rosemary, and red pepper slices to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.

Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Balsamic and Thyme Pickled Asparagus

Balsamic and Thyme Pickled Asparagus
Transform asparagus into a tangy and aromatic delight with this simple recipe, perfect for springtime gatherings or everyday snacking.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus spears
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Trim asparagus spears, leaving tips intact.
4. Place asparagus on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. While asparagus is roasting, combine balsamic vinegar, water, honey, olive oil, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper in a medium saucepan.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
9. Strain pickling liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding thyme sprigs.
10. Toss roasted asparagus with the pickling liquid until well coated.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (roasting time + pickling time)

Smoky Chipotle Pickled Asparagus

Smoky Chipotle Pickled Asparagus
Elevate your snack game with this smoky and spicy take on classic pickles. This recipe adds a depth of flavor from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, perfectly balancing sweet and tangy notes.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus, vinegar, water, sugar, chipotle peppers, salt, and black pepper.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
3. After the pickling time has passed, transfer the asparagus to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
4. Allow the flavors to meld together for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 4-12 hours (depending on desired level of pickle-ness)

Sweet and Spicy Pickled Asparagus

Sweet and Spicy Pickled Asparagus
Sweet and Spicy Pickled Asparagus Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of sweet and heat, adding a tangy twist to the classic asparagus. It’s an easy and quick way to preserve fresh asparagus for a snack or side dish.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup (15g) thinly sliced fresh ginger

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus, vinegar, sugar, mustard, salt, and red pepper flakes.
2. Stir until the asparagus is evenly coated with the pickling liquid.
3. Pack the asparagus mixture into a clean glass jar or container.
4. Slice the fresh ginger thinly and place it on top of the asparagus.
5. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking Time: 24 hours (refrigeration time)

Quick Refrigerator Pickled Asparagus

Quick Refrigerator Pickled Asparagus
Add a tangy twist to your asparagus with this easy and quick pickling recipe, perfect for a snack or side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the asparagus and ice cubes. Let it sit for 15 minutes to crisp up.
2. Drain the asparagus and place it in a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the asparagus, making sure that all spears are covered.
5. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes ( preparation) + 2 hours (pickling time)

Asian-Inspired Soy-Ginger Pickled Asparagus

Asian-Inspired Soy-Ginger Pickled Asparagus
This recipe adds an Asian-inspired twist to traditional pickling, with the bright flavors of soy sauce and ginger. Perfect as a side dish or topping for your favorite dishes.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (250ml) soy sauce
– 1/2 cup (125ml) rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the trimmed asparagus to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, stir in the water to create a tangy pickling liquid.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight) + 10 minutes preparation time

Herbes de Provence Pickled Asparagus

Herbes de Provence Pickled Asparagus
This recipe combines the bright, tangy flavors of pickling with the earthy sweetness of asparagus, all tied together with the aromatic herbs of Provençal cuisine. The result is a delicious and refreshing side dish or snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (250ml) white wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon Herbes de Provence (thyme, rosemary, oregano, and lavender)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, Herbes de Provence, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the asparagus into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the pickling liquid over the asparagus, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes (pickling liquid only), 1 day+ (asparagus)

Maple-Bourbon Pickled Asparagus

Maple-Bourbon Pickled Asparagus
Elevate your springtime meals with this sweet and tangy take on classic pickles. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the richness of bourbon and a hint of maple syrup.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus, vinegar, water, sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, salt, and pepper.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the pickling liquid and pack the asparagus into clean glass jars with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the pickling liquid over the asparagus, leaving about 1/2 inch (13mm) headspace.
5. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: None needed! Let the magic happen while you wait.

Turmeric and Fennel Pickled Asparagus

Turmeric and Fennel Pickled Asparagus
Elevate your springtime meals with this vibrant and flavorful side dish. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the earthy warmth of turmeric and the freshness of fennel.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon ground fennel seed
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, honey, ginger, turmeric, and fennel seed. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack asparagus into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the pickling liquid over the asparagus.
4. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 25 minutes (including prep time)

Classic Dill and Garlic Pickled Asparagus

Classic Dill and Garlic Pickled Asparagus
Add a tangy twist to your meals with this simple recipe for pickled asparagus. Perfect for snacking, adding to sandwiches or salads, or serving as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons pickling salt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and pickling salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack asparagus into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the asparagus, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Add garlic and dill on top of the asparagus.
6. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (simmering) + 24 hours (pickling)

Bloody Mary Pickled Asparagus

Bloody Mary Pickled Asparagus
Elevate your snack game with this tangy and savory Bloody Mary pickled asparagus recipe, perfect for adding a burst of flavor to any gathering. With the bold flavors of a Bloody Mary cocktail, these pickles will quickly become your new favorite appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup Bloody Mary mix (or 1/2 cup tomato juice and 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice)
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine Bloody Mary mix, vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack asparagus into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour hot pickling liquid over the asparagus, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace.
4. Seal jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes + 24 hours of chilling

Cajun-Spiced Pickled Asparagus

Cajun-Spiced Pickled Asparagus
Add a spicy kick to your springtime asparagus with this unique and flavorful pickling recipe, infused with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 teaspoon pickling salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, Cajun seasoning, pickling salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack asparagus into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the asparagus, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace.
4. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes (pickling liquid), 24+ hours (refrigeration time)

Tarragon and White Wine Pickled Asparagus

Tarragon and White Wine Pickled Asparagus
Elevate your asparagus game with this elegant and flavorful pickling recipe, perfect for springtime gatherings or a light lunch. This Tarragon and White Wine Pickled Asparagus dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon leaves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus and cold water to cover. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the asparagus and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, wine, sugar, tarragon leaves, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack the asparagus into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the pickling liquid over the asparagus, making sure it’s completely covered.
5. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus refrigeration time)

Chili-Lime Pickled Asparagus

Chili-Lime Pickled Asparagus
Add a tangy twist to your springtime meals with these flavorful pickles! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the spicy kick of chili flakes and the brightness of lime juice.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, chili flakes, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pack asparagus into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the asparagus, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Seal the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Quick-Pickled Asparagus with Coriander Seeds

Quick-Pickled Asparagus with Coriander Seeds
Add a burst of citrusy flavor and crunchy texture to your meals with this easy-to-make pickling recipe. This quick pickle is perfect for topping salads, sandwiches, or serving as a side dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 cup (250 ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125 ml) water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine asparagus, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add coriander seeds and stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Just before serving, squeeze in lemon juice.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional coriander seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 24 hours (depending on the pickling time)

Summary

This collection of recipes offers something for everyone, from quick refrigerator pickles to more complex recipes featuring unique flavor combinations. Whether you’re looking for a spicy kick or a sweet and tangy taste, these pickled asparagus recipes are sure to delight.

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