17 Foods You Can Turn into Pickles
Some of our favorite foods are sweet. Others are salty or tangy. And some are… all of the above? The magic happens with pickling.
While cucumbers and cauliflower are classic, many more fruits and vegetables can be pickled—even avocado or pumpkin! Discover 17 surprising foods you can transform into delicious pickles this season.
1. Strawberries
Quick-pickled strawberries in a white balsamic brine add a sweet-tart punch to salads, sandwiches, or sparkling drinks.
2. Avocado
Unripe avocado slices become creamy and flavorful when submerged in a simple vinegar brine—perfect for tacos or grain bowls.
3. Melon (and Rind)
In Eastern Europe, watermelon or melon rind pickles seasoned with garlic, dill, and bay leaf are a salty-sweet treat.
4. Beets
Pickled beets develop deeper sweetness over time—add to salads, soups, or serve straight from the jar.
5. Red Onion
Thinly sliced red onion pickles brighten tacos, burgers, and grain bowls with vibrant color and crisp bite.
6. Asparagus
Blanch stalks, then pickle in brine for a springtime snack or elegant hors d’oeuvre.
7. Mango
Sweet-and-spicy mango pickles (amba) complement falafel, grilled meats, or rice dishes.
8. Eggplant
Moroccan-style eggplant pickles with coriander and garlic extend eggplant season well into winter.
9. Garlic
Pickled garlic mellows harsh heat and keeps for months—use in dressings, spreads, or antipasti platters.
10. Radish
Pickled whole or sliced radishes add crunchy zing to tacos, salads, and charcuterie boards.
11. Pumpkin
Pickled pumpkin cubes with cinnamon and cloves make festive holiday sides or snackable bites.
12. Lemon
Moroccan preserved lemons in salt and juice add bright acidity to tagines, salads, and slaws.
13. Mushrooms
Pickled mushrooms bring probiotic benefits and earthy flavor to cheese boards or sandwiches.
14. Plums (Umeboshi)
Japanese umeboshi are intensely sour-salty plums traditionally served with rice or used as a hangover cure.
15. Grapes
Pickled grapes pair beautifully with soft cheeses or roasted meats.
16. Zucchini
Pickled zucchini spears are an easy, healthy garnish for burgers, salads, or antipasti trays.
17. Eggs
Classic pickled eggs are a protein-packed snack—slice into salads or serve as bar bites.
Tips for Perfect Pickles
- Use only fresh, unblemished produce.
- Sterilize jars and utensils beforehand.
- Fully submerge ingredients in brine.
- Label jars with pickle date.
- Maintain proper vinegar-to-water ratio.
- Include whole spices for extra flavor.