Easy Pickled Beets Recipe

These homemade pickled beets are sweet, tangy, colorful, and full of flavor. They are perfect for salads, sandwiches, burgers, or as a healthy side dish. Pickled beets are easy to make and taste even better after a day in the fridge.

This recipe uses simple ingredients like fresh beets, vinegar, sugar, and spices. The beets become soft and juicy while the pickling liquid gives them a delicious sweet-and-sour taste.

You can keep these pickled beets in the refrigerator for several weeks, making them great for meal prep and quick snacks.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Easy to make at home
Sweet, tangy, and delicious
Naturally gluten-free
Great for salads and sandwiches
Beautiful bright color
Stores well in the fridge

Ingredients

2 pounds fresh beets
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
2 garlic cloves, sliced
1 small onion, sliced (optional)
2 bay leaves

Equipment

Large pot
Knife and cutting board
Glass jar or container with lid
Small saucepan

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beets

Wash the beets well to remove dirt. Leave the skins on.

Place the beets in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 35–45 minutes, or until the beets are fork tender.

Drain and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Peel and Slice

Once cool enough to handle, rub off the skins using your hands or a paper towel.

Slice the beets into rounds or cubes.

Step 3: Make the Pickling Liquid

In a small saucepan, combine:

White vinegar
Water
Sugar
Salt
Peppercorns
Garlic
Bay leaves

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and stir until the sugar dissolves.

Step 4: Fill the Jar

Place the sliced beets into a clean glass jar. Add sliced onion if using.

Pour the hot pickling liquid over the beets until fully covered.

Let cool completely.

Step 5: Refrigerate

Cover the jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before eating for the best flavor.

The flavor becomes stronger after a few days.

Serving Ideas

Pickled beets taste great:

In green salads
With goat cheese
On sandwiches and burgers
Next to grilled chicken or fish
In grain bowls
As a healthy snack

Tips & Tricks

Use gloves when handling beets to avoid stained hands.
Add cloves or cinnamon for a warmer flavor.
Red onions work very well in this recipe.
Slice the beets thinly for faster pickling.
Let the beets sit for 2–3 days for deeper flavor.

Notes

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Do not use metal containers for pickling.
You can use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste.
Smaller beets cook faster and are usually more tender.