Elevate your pantry staples with this vibrant recipe for Quick Pickled Garlic with Mediterranean Flavors. Featuring a harmonious blend of fresh garlic cloves, zesty lemon peel, aromatic herbs like oregano and thyme, and a touch of warmth from black peppercorns and optional red pepper flakes, this quick pickling method infuses bold, tangy flavors in just a few hours. With only 10 minutes of prep time and a simple stovetop brine of white vinegar, water, salt, and sugar, you'll have a versatile condiment perfect for adding a Mediterranean twist to salads, charcuterie boards, or roasted vegetables. Refrigerated for optimal freshness, this garlic can be enjoyed for up to two weeks, making it a quick and convenient way to enhance your meals.
Peel the garlic cloves. To make peeling easier, lightly smash each clove with the side of a knife before removing the skin.
In a small saucepan, combine water, white vinegar, salt, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved.
In a clean glass jar (about 500 ml), add the peeled garlic cloves, lemon zest strip, oregano, thyme, bay leaf, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the garlic and spices, ensuring all the garlic cloves are fully submerged.
Let the jar cool to room temperature, then seal it with a lid. Shake gently to distribute the spices evenly.
Refrigerate the pickled garlic for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, wait 48 hours before using.
Store the pickled garlic in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy as a tangy snack, side condiment, or ingredient in your favorite dishes!
Calories |
317 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.4 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3944 mg | 171% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 69.0 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 10.2 g | ||
| Protein | 11.3 g | 23% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 346 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 6.6 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 901 mg | 19% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.