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Spicy Pickled Vegetable Salad Recipe

Spicy Pickled Vegetable Salad offers a vibrant twist on traditional vegetable salads with an exciting blend of heat and tang. The bright crunch of fresh vegetables meets the bold zing of spicy pickling, creating a dish that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Side
Cuisine Asian-Inspired
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Pot To heat and dissolve pickling brine ingredients
  • Knife To wash, peel, and thinly slice vegetables
  • Cutting board For slicing vegetables uniformly
  • Jar or bowl To combine sliced vegetables and pickling brine

Ingredients
  

  • carrots provide natural sweetness and satisfying crunch
  • daikon radish adds crispness with a subtle peppery note
  • 1/2 cup rice vinegar gives mild, bright acidity that complements spicy elements
  • 2-3 fresh chilies serrano or Thai bird’s eye chilies, introduce varied heat levels
  • 1 tablespoon sugar balances sharpness of vinegar and heat with sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances flavors and helps preserve texture
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, imparts warmth and aromatic depth
  • 1 tablespoon ginger grated, imparts warmth and aromatic depth

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Vegetables – Wash, peel, and thinly slice the carrots, daikon, and any other selected vegetables. Uniform pieces ensure even pickling and a pleasing bite in the final salad.
  • Make the Pickling Brine – Combine rice vinegar, sugar, salt, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced fresh chilies in a pot. Heat gently until sugar and salt dissolve fully, then remove from heat to cool slightly.
  • Combine Vegetables and Brine – Place the sliced vegetables in a clean jar or bowl and pour the warm brine over them. Stir gently to coat all pieces evenly, ensuring full flavor infusion.
  • Pickle and Chill – Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the vegetables to absorb the spicy, tangy flavors while retaining their crunch. Overnight rest enhances depth but is optional.
  • Adjust Seasoning and Serve – Taste the salad and add more salt, sugar, or chili to your preference. Serve chilled as a vibrant side or appetizer that complements many meals.

Notes

  • Use firm, fresh vegetables to maintain crispness after pickling.
  • Adjust chili quantity to control the level of heat.
  • The salad can be made up to 2 days in advance for deeper flavor.
  • Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, best within the first week.
  • Do not freeze the pickled salad to preserve texture and flavor.
Keyword easy side dish, quick pickled salad, spicy pickled vegetables, vegetable salad
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