Autumn Salad

Autumn Salad: A Delight from a Jar

When autumn arrives, nature offers us a spectacle of colors and flavors worth preserving. The autumn salad is a classic recipe, a true treasure of the season, that gathers all the taste of vegetables in a jar, to indulge us throughout the winter. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple, and preparing it becomes a pleasant activity, ideal for gathering the family around the table. Let's discover together how to prepare this autumn salad!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 24 hours
Total time: 24 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:

- 2 kg green tomatoes (or unripe tomatoes)
- 2 kg cucumbers
- 2 kg red bell peppers
- 2 kg onions
- A handful of pickling salt
- 700 ml 9% vinegar
- 700 ml water
- Thyme (a few sprigs)
- Horseradish (sticks)
- Optional: honey, celery leaves

A bit of history

The autumn salad has a long tradition, being prepared in various forms in households around the world. It not only helps preserve vegetables but also brings a touch of freshness to the winter table when fresh vegetables are no longer available. Pickled vegetables are an excellent source of probiotics, beneficial for digestion.

Preparing the vegetables

1. Washing and cleaning the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Peel the onions and slice them thinly.

2. Cutting the vegetables: Cut the green tomatoes, cucumbers, and red bell peppers into thin slices. It is important that all vegetables are cut evenly for uniform pickling.

3. Salting the vegetables: Place the cut vegetables in a large bowl and sprinkle a handful of pickling salt. Mix well so that the salt is evenly distributed. Cover the bowl with a towel and let the vegetables sit overnight to release their juices.

The next day: Assembling the salad

4. Draining the vegetables: After 24 hours, you will need to drain the excess water from the vegetables. This step is essential to achieve a crunchy and tasty salad. Use a sieve or a piece of cheesecloth to do this.

5. Preparing the jars: Sterilize the jars and lids before use. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria. You can sterilize the jars by boiling or in the oven.

6. Filling the jars: At the bottom of each jar, add a few sticks of horseradish and sprigs of thyme for added flavor. Then, start adding the drained vegetables, pressing them down slightly with your hand to pack them well.

Preparing the marinade

7. Mixing the vinegar: In a separate container, mix the vinegar with water and add salt to taste. Taste the mixture to ensure it is balanced. If you want a slightly sweet flavor, you can add a tablespoon of honey.

8. Pouring the marinade: Pour the vinegar and water mixture over the vegetables in the jars, ensuring they are completely covered. Leave a few centimeters of space at the top of the jar for expansion.

9. Sealing the jars: Close the jars tightly with the sterilized lids. It is important to ensure they are airtight to avoid spoilage.

Fermentation and storage

10. Storing: Place the jars in a cool, dark place. Natural fermentation will begin, and the flavor of the salad will become more intense over time.

Serving

The autumn salad is perfect as a side dish to various dishes, such as meat roasts, stews, or even alongside cheese. It can also be enjoyed on its own, with a slice of fresh bread. For added flavor, you can add a few fresh parsley leaves or a drizzle of olive oil when serving.

Tips and variations

- Vegetable variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, or celery, to diversify the taste.
- Spices: Depending on your preferences, you can add spices like peppercorns or bay leaves to the jars for a more complex flavor.
- Durability: This salad can be kept for several months, making it an excellent companion for winter meals.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long can the autumn salad be stored?
- If stored properly, it can last up to a year.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
- It is recommended to use only fresh vegetables for the best results.

3. Is it necessary to add vinegar?
- Vinegar not only helps with preservation but also adds a pleasant taste to the salad.

4. What can I do with the autumn salad?
- It is great as a side dish, in sandwiches, or as an ingredient in various salads.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This autumn salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, low in calories, making it perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. For example, green tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, while onions provide important antioxidants.

Conclusion

The autumn salad is more than just a simple recipe; it is a way to preserve the taste of summer throughout the year. Whether you prepare it for yourself or to give as a gift, this salad will bring joy to every meal. Try making it yourself, and let your family enjoy the authentic flavors of autumn! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 2 kg green tomatoes, 2 kg cucumbers, 2 kg red bell peppers, 2 kg onions, 1 handful of pickling salt, 0.700 ml of 9-degree vinegar, 0.700 ml of water, thyme