Giardiniera, the tangy and vibrant Italian condiment, has charmed taste buds for generations with its medley of colorful vegetables soaked in a zesty brine. Whether spooned onto sandwiches, tossed into salads, or enjoyed as a standalone snack, giardiniera offers a burst of flavor that elevates any dish.
Wash and clean all the vegetables thoroughly. Cut the cauliflower into small florets. Slice the carrots, celery, bell peppers, garlic, and peppers into appropriate sizes.
In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the salt is fully dissolved. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the brine cool slightly.
In a large glass jar or multiple smaller jars, layer the prepared vegetables, starting with the cauliflower. Sprinkle dried oregano and red pepper flakes over the vegetables for added flavor and color. Tuck the garlic and onion in between the layers of vegetables.
Carefully pour the slightly cooled brine over the vegetables in the jars, ensuring that the vegetables are fully covered. Leave about half an inch of space at the top of the jars.
Using a clean utensil, gently press down on the vegetables to release any air bubbles. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top of the brine. This helps create an additional seal and prevents oxidation. Seal the jars tightly with the lids. Place the jars in the refrigerator.
Once the giardiniera has marinated to your liking, it's ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and continue to enjoy the giardiniera's bold flavors.