Giardiniera (Marinated Salad)

Picnic season is here, time for something perfect for a day at the park.

Giardiniera is basically Italian style marinated vegetables, a great summer condiment/salad for a picnic or antipasto platter, it can be spicy or sweet, and easy to play with the ingredients if you don't like something. This is not a quick recipe, it takes about 2 days to make it, but it's super easy and worth the time to make your own.

Giardiniera

1/2 head Cauliflower, chopped into small florets

1/2 head Broccoli , chopped into small florets

2 ribs Celery, chopped

3 Carrots, sliced diagonally

2 yellow Peppers, large diced

0-6 Serrano peppers, sliced (optional, depending on desired heat)

1/2 cup Salt

3 cups Water (more if needed)

3 cloves Garlic, minced

2 1/2 tsp Italian Seasoning

1/2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes

1/2 tsp Celery Seeds

1 Tbsp Sugar (optional)

1 cup Vinegar

1 cup Oil (I used Canola Oil)

2 Roasted Red Peppers, cut in large strips

10 baby Pickled Pepperoncinis, whole

First, combine the cauliflower, broccoli, celery, carrots, and peppers together in a large bowl. Pour salt over the veggies and add water (enough to cover the veggies). Mix well and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight.

In the morning, pour the veggies into a strainer and rinse well with water to get rid of any excess salt. Pour veggies back into a bowl and add remaining ingredients. Mix well. Cover bowl again with plastic wrap (or pour into a large jar to keep in the fridge) and let marinade for at least 24 hours before serving. 

Great on an antipasto platter, in a salad, or just as a side/salad on a summer picnic.

~Adel~