Ingredients

Vegetables

2 kilograms tomatoes (4.4 pounds)
2 kilograms cucumbers (4.4 pounds)
12 medium onions
12 bell peppers
1 hot pepper
2 heads of garlic
2 bunches of parsley
2 bunches of dill
We recommend:

Seasoning and Brine

24 bay leaves
allspice
cloves
5 liters brine (1.32 gallons)
125 grams sugar (0.28 pounds)
3 tablespoons salt
150 grams vinegar (9%) (0.33 pounds)
We recommend:

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing all the **vegetables** thoroughly under running water. This ensures that any dirt or residues are removed. Next, chop the **tomatoes**, **cucumbers**, and **bell peppers** into bite-sized pieces. Peel and slice the **onions** into thin rings. Make sure to also prepare the **garlic** by peeling the cloves and smashing them slightly to release their flavor. Gather these chopped vegetables in a large bowl.

Step 2

Make the Brine

In a large pot, combine **water** and **vinegar** to create the brine. For every **2 liters** of water, mix **125 grams of sugar**, **3 tablespoons of salt**, and **150 grams of vinegar**. Stir the mixture well until the **sugar** and **salt** are completely dissolved. If you're preparing for **12 jars**, simply multiply all the ingredients by **2.5** to create enough brine for all your vegetables.

Step 3

Jar the Vegetables

Once your **brine** is ready, fill each sterilized jar with the chopped vegetables until they reach the top. Leave some space at the top for the brine. Carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged. Place **24 bay leaves**, **allspice**, and **cloves** in each jar to enhance the flavor. Seal each jar tightly with a lid.

Step 4

Store and Enjoy

Now that your jars are prepared, it’s time to **process** them. You can either put the jars in a simmering water bath or keep them in a cool dark place until they are sealed properly. This will help preserve your **summer vegetable medley** throughout the winter months. Enjoy delicious home-canned vegetables whenever you want a taste of summer!

Servings

When it comes to enjoying your summer salad, the possibilities are endless! You can serve this delightful salad as a **zesty appetizer** for gatherings, or use it to **enhance** your main dishes. Picture this: a refreshing bowl of salad alongside grilled meats, or as a vibrant side dish during your picnic outings. πŸ₯ͺ✨
Consider pairing it with your favorite cheeses or crunchy breads to elevate your meal even further. Enjoy it as a light snack during a hot day, and relive the delightful flavors of summer with every bite! πŸ’š

Equipment

Cutting Board and Knife

A sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife are critical for chopping all those veggies cleanly and efficiently!

We recommend:

Variations

Want to make this recipe even more exciting? Try these variations! If you're looking for a **gluten-free** option, you're in luck! This salad is naturally gluten-free! 🌱πŸ₯—
For those following a **vegan lifestyle**, this salad is already perfect! You can also add some chickpeas or lentils for added protein and texture! Remember to ensure your brine has plant-based ingredients only! Make it fun and experiment with different veggies; try adding carrots or radishes to mix things up! πŸ₯•πŸ₯¬

Faq

  • What is the best way to store the salad?

    Store your jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a week for best flavor!

  • Can I adjust the brine recipe to my taste?

    Absolutely! Feel free to decrease the sugar or increase the spices to suit your preferences!

  • How long can I keep my jars sealed?

    If canned properly, your salad can be stored for up to a year in a cool, dark place!

  • What vegetables work best in this salad?

    While this recipe uses cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers, feel free to experiment with zucchini, radishes, or any seasonal veggies you enjoy!

  • Why does my salad taste too salty?

    Make sure to measure your salt accurately! If it tastes too salty, you can try diluting it with water or adding more vegetables!

  • Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

    Definitely! Fresh herbs like dill or parsley will add even more flavor to your salad. Just chop them finely before adding!

Nutrition facts

Summer Vegetable Medley for Winter Storage
Recipe Yield:12 jars
Calories:Approximate calories per serving range for the preserved salad.
Calories (Min - Max):100 - 150
Total Fat:1g
Saturated Fat:0g
Protein:2g
Total Carbohydrate:23g
Total Sugars:5g