There’s something truly delightful about opening your refrigerator to discover a jar of vibrant, homemade pickled beets. Their sweet and tangy flavor can turn even the simplest meal into a gourmet experience. I first came across this easy refrigerator pickled beets recipe during a leisurely afternoon in my kitchen, yearning for something fresh and colorful.
With just three main ingredients—fresh beets, apple cider vinegar, and pure maple syrup—you don’t need to worry about canning skills or complicated processes. Just a little time and the right ingredients will reward you with a crunchy, bright pink snack or salad topping that’s not only vegan and gluten-free but also a feast for the eyes.
Whether you’re planning a potluck, looking for a lunchbox addition, or simply wanting a refreshing side dish, these pickled beets are the answer. Let’s dive into how you can bring this easy yet impressive dish to your table!
Why Are Refrigerator Pickled Beets So Popular?
Vibrant Colors: These pickled beauties brighten up any dish with their stunning hue, making your meals visually appealing.
Effortless Preparation: With just three main ingredients and no canning necessary, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks who want homemade goodness without the hassle.
Versatile Uses: Enjoy them as a snack, a salad topping, or even in sandwiches, adding a sweet and tangy twist to your meals.
Health Benefits: Packed with fiber and essential nutrients, they’re a guilt-free addition to your plate.
Make-Ahead Delight: Store these in the fridge for up to four weeks, making them a time-saving option for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Refrigerator Pickled Beets Ingredients
• Discover the simple components for delicious pickled beets!
For the Beets
- Fresh Beets – The star of this recipe, offering a naturally sweet and earthy flavor. Tip: Choose medium-sized beets for even cooking.
For the Brine
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds essential tanginess to the brine. Substitution: White wine or rice vinegar can be used for a different flavor.
- Water – Balances the vinegar to create a mellow brine. No substitutions required.
- Pure Maple Syrup – Sweetens the brine and complements the beets. Substitution: Honey or agave syrup works, though it may slightly change the flavor.
- Salt – Enhances the overall taste of the pickled beets. Adjust to your preference for the best flavor.
With these ingredients ready, you’ll be well on your way to crafting delightful refrigerator pickled beets that are bursting with flavor!
How to Make Refrigerator Pickled Beets
-
Prepare the Beets: Start by rinsing and scrubbing your fresh beets until they are clean. Remove the tops and trim the roots to get them ready for cooking.
-
Steam the Beets: Place the beets in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 45-50 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork. The kitchen will fill with a lovely earthy aroma!
-
Cool & Peel: Once the beets are steamed, let them cool down. Once they are cool enough to handle, use paper towels to gently rub off the skins. It’s easier than you think!
-
Cut & Jar: Chop the peeled beets into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks. Transfer these lovely pieces into a mason jar or any food storage container that seals well, keeping the freshness locked in.
-
Make the Brine: In a measuring cup, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, water, pure maple syrup, and salt until well combined. This brine is where the magic happens!
-
Combine & Refrigerate: Pour the brine over the chopped beets in the jar, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving—this way, they’ll absorb all those delicious flavors!
Optional: Enjoy these pickled beets as a lively topping on your salads or as a delightful snack straight from the jar!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Refrigerator Pickled Beets are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their vibrant flavors without needing to cook on busy weeknights. You can prepare the beets up to 3 days in advance; simply steam them, cool, and peel as directed. Store the chopped beets in a jar or container, and make the brine mixture ahead of time as well—just whisk together the apple cider vinegar, water, maple syrup, and salt. Combine the beets with the brine on the day you plan to serve them, ensuring they marinate for at least 24 hours for optimal flavor. This method allows for quick assembly while ensuring your pickled beets remain just as delicious!
What to Serve with Refrigerator Pickled Beets?
These colorful pickled beets can elevate any meal, adding a sweet and tangy crunch that delights the senses.
-
Ham and Cheddar Salad: The savory notes of ham and creamy cheese create a delightful contrast, balancing the sweetness of the beets perfectly.
-
Spinach Salad with Walnuts: Tossing these vibrant pickled beets into a fresh spinach salad with crunchy walnuts adds texture and shine, making every bite exciting.
-
Roasted Carrots: The sweetness of roasted carrots complements the pickled beets beautifully, providing warmth and earthiness alongside their tangy zing.
-
Tart Apple Slices: Crisp, tart apple slices can enhance the refreshing aspects of your pickled beets, offering a delightful interplay of flavors.
-
Grilled Chicken: A side of grilled chicken brings a hearty protein element that pairs well with the bright flavors of the beets, making for a balanced meal.
-
Red Wine: A glass of light red wine can harmonize with the acidity of the vinegar, enhancing your gastronomic experience.
-
Quinoa Bowl: Create a nourishing quinoa bowl with roasted veggies, the pickled beets’ tangy crunch will elevate your dish to something truly special.
Each pairing enhances the garden-fresh qualities of the pickled beets, creating memorable meals full of flavor and nutrition!
Expert Tips for Refrigerator Pickled Beets
• Steaming Time: Monitor beets as they steam; larger ones may need a few extra minutes to become tender. Always check with a fork for doneness.
• Choosing Beets: Select medium-sized beets for even cooking, avoiding very small or very large ones which can result in uneven textures.
• Brine Creativity: Feel free to experiment with spices like cloves or mustard seeds in your brine to customize your refrigerator pickled beets.
• Storing Wisely: Keep your pickled beets in a tightly sealed jar and refrigerate them, where they’ll stay fresh and vibrant for up to four weeks.
• Using Leftover Brine: Don’t waste that flavorful brine! Use it to pickle cucumbers or other vegetables for a delightful variation.
Refrigerator Pickled Beets Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you explore these delightful twists on this vibrant recipe!
-
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños to the brine for a warming heat that complements the sweetness of the beets. It offers a delightful contrast, perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their pickles.
-
Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or thyme into the jar for an herbal twist that brightens up the flavor profile. Imagine savoring each bite with added freshness; it’s simply divine!
-
Citrus Zing: Add lemon or orange zest to the brine for a refreshing citrus note. The bright, zesty kick will elevate your pickled beets, making each taste even more exciting!
-
Maple Variations: Substitute the pure maple syrup with honey or coconut nectar for a different sweetness that contributes unique flavor notes. Each sweetener brings its charm, and experimenting can be so rewarding.
-
Vinegar Swaps: Try swapping apple cider vinegar for balsamic or red wine vinegar for a different acidity level that could enhance the overall taste. This twist offers a unique experience with each bite.
-
Texture Change: Cut your beets into thinner slices or matchsticks for a different visual and textural experience. This presentation works beautifully in salads and can be enjoyed as elegant, bite-sized snacks.
-
Sweet and Sour: Add a few tablespoons of sugar to the brine for an extra sweet and tangy profile. Balancing the sweetness with the acidity will create a deliciously harmonious flavor.
-
Berry Blast: Mix in some crushed raspberries or blueberries to the brine for a fruity twist that makes your pickled beets even more exciting. This twist offers an unexpected burst of flavor and color!
How to Store and Freeze Refrigerator Pickled Beets
Fridge: Store your pickled beets in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed jar for up to 4 weeks. The cold will help maintain their vibrant color and flavor.
Freezer: While not commonly frozen, if necessary, you can freeze pickled beets for up to 3 months. Ensure they are in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: If enjoying the beets cold in salads or as snacks, no reheating is needed. For warm dishes, gently heat them on the stove over low heat to retain their texture and flavor.
Leftover Brine: Don’t discard the leftover brine! It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks and used to pickle other veggies for added excitement in your meals.
Refrigerator Pickled Beets Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best beets for pickling?
Absolutely! When selecting beets, look for medium-sized ones that are firm and have smooth skin, avoiding any with soft spots or blemishes. They should feel heavy for their size, signaling juiciness and freshness. If you notice dark spots all over, it’s best to skip those, as they may be past their prime.
How should I store my refrigerator pickled beets?
Store your delicious pickled beets in a tightly sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. This will help maintain their vibrant color and sweet-tangy flavor. Make sure to keep them submerged in the brine to maximize their taste and texture!
Can I freeze pickled beets?
Very! You can freeze pickled beets for up to 3 months, although it’s not the most common practice. To do this, ensure they are in an airtight container, leaving a bit of headspace for expansion. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
What should I do if my pickled beets turn out too salty or sour?
If your pickled beets are too salty or sour, try adding a little more water and a teaspoon of sugar to the brine. This can help balance the flavors. To adjust for next time, consider reducing the salt or vinegar slightly in the brine preparation until you find your perfect taste.
Are refrigerator pickled beets safe for my pets?
It’s best to avoid giving pickled beets to your pets. The salt and vinegar can be too harsh for their digestion. Always check with your vet before introducing new foods to your furry friend’s diet!
Can I use leftover brine for other pickling?
Absolutely! Your leftover brine is a treasure trove of flavor. It can be used to pickle cucumbers or other veggies. Simply pour it over your new veggies in a clean jar and let them sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours to absorb the deliciousness!
Refrigerator Pickled Beets: Sweet & Tangy in Just 3 Steps
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Beets: Start by rinsing and scrubbing your fresh beets until they are clean. Remove the tops and trim the roots to get them ready for cooking.
- Steam the Beets: Place the beets in a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 45-50 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Cool & Peel: Once the beets are steamed, let them cool down. Use paper towels to gently rub off the skins.
- Cut & Jar: Chop the peeled beets into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks and transfer them into a mason jar.
- Make the Brine: Whisk together the apple cider vinegar, water, pure maple syrup, and salt until well combined.
- Combine & Refrigerate: Pour the brine over the chopped beets in the jar, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.