Giardiniera Spread Recipe: A Flavorful and Spicy Sandwich Delight
This Giardiniera Spread is a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional spreads, making it the perfect addition to your sandwich repertoire. Bursting with vibrant flavors from pickled vegetables, this spread is a must-try for anyone who loves a bit of heat in their meals. Whether you’re layering it on a fresh hero sandwich, pairing it with grilled veggies on toasted ciabatta, or using it as a dip, this versatile spread will elevate your dish with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It’s quick to make, requiring just five minutes of your time, and offers a zesty bite from the mix of pickled carrots, cauliflower, celery, pepperoncini, and red peppers.
This easy-to-make spread can also be customized with more or less seasoning depending on your taste, making it a great addition to any sandwich, wrap, or snack platter.
Giardiniera Spread
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic clove | 1 |
| Olive oil | 1–2 tbsp |
| Pepperoncini | 1–2 peppers |
| Pickled carrots | 1/4 cup |
| Pickled cauliflower | 1/4 cup |
| Celery stalk | 1/4 cup |
| Red bell pepper | 1/4 cup |
| Salt (to taste) | – |
| Freshly ground pepper | – |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 tbsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 15.5 |
| Fat Content | 1.7 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0 mg |
| Sodium Content | 0.1 g |
| Carbohydrate Content | 0.1 g |
| Fiber Content | 0 g |
| Sugar Content | 0 g |
| Protein Content | 0 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
Begin by removing the stem from the pepperoncini peppers. You can find these in the pickle section of your supermarket, alongside the pickled carrots, cauliflower, celery, and red peppers—ingredients that will give the spread its signature crunch and tangy flavor. -
Blend the Ingredients:
Add the garlic clove, pepperoncini peppers, pickled carrots, cauliflower, celery, and red peppers to a food processor or blender. Drizzle in 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil to help create a smooth paste. Blend until the mixture forms a thick, uniform consistency. -
Season to Taste:
Taste your spread and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and freshly ground pepper according to your preference. Remember, the pickled vegetables are already salty, so be sure to taste before adding extra salt. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once your Giardiniera Spread has reached the desired flavor, spread it generously on your favorite sandwich or hero roll. It’s perfect for pairing with grilled vegetables, meats, or even a simple veggie and cheese sandwich. For a more substantial meal, use it in the Grilled Veggies on Toasted Ciabatta Bread recipe #92754.
Giardiniera Spread – Tips & Variations
- Make It Spicier: If you love extra heat, add a few more pepperoncini peppers or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the spread.
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to meld and improve as it sits.
- Vegan Option: To keep the spread vegan, ensure you’re using a plant-based olive oil, as some flavored oils may contain animal products.
Giardiniera Spread is an easy, flavorful addition to your sandwich spread collection. It’s not only quick and simple to prepare, but it also packs a punch with its pickled, zesty vegetables. It’s the kind of spread that brings excitement to a regular sandwich, and its versatility means you can experiment with different uses to suit your tastes. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a gathering with friends, this spread is sure to impress.
