Hot Giardiniera - 5 Unique Uses For This Tasty Italian Style Condiment

So, you haven't tasted giardiniera yet? Well, that's ok because millions of people haven't, but then again, millions have and they are singing the praises of this unique Italian style condiment. Here are five unique uses for mild or hot giardiniera that are sure to liven up your meals...

Introduction To Hot Giardiniera

Giardiniera is an Italian term that loosely translated means "from the garden", and a garden is what you'll find when you open a jar of this delicious garnish. Although styles and recipes of giardiniera differ, most include a banquet of hot or mild peppers, carrots, celery, pitted olives, and even cauliflower.

Both hot and mild varieties are available. Don't let the term "hot" concern you though. While there's a definite kick to the hot style, the heat is not so overwhelming as to numb your taste buds.

Whether hot or mild, the product is packed in a jar along with healthy, shelf stable oil mixtures. There's no need to store it in your refrigerator. In fact, doing so will change the complexion of the oil and negatively affect the taste. We recommend storing giardiniera in a cabinet with your other spices and condiments.

Hot giardiniera is especially versatile and will add a zesty accent to just about any dish. In particular, use it to add a tasty kick to plain and simple meals or leftovers. Here are five unique uses you'll want to try...

Frozen Pizza

We are generally fans of good frozen pizzas, but let's face it, sometimes they are a little lacking. Before putting the pizza in the oven, spread two or three fork fulls on top and let it bake in. You've just added a whole new dimension to your pizza!

Pita Sandwiches

Pita sandwiches are all the rage because they are easy to handle and eat. Plus, the pocket keeps everything neat and clean. Mix in some hot giardiniera for a new twist. It particularly livens up tuna or chicken salad.

Meatloaf

Yes, meatloaf! While mixing the meat, include some hot giardiniera. You'll never hear meatloaf is boring again! The mixture bakes together and creates a whole new taste that is lively and vibrant.

Casseroles

Using the same concept, add your giardiniera along with all the other ingredients before placing in the oven to bake. The flavor accents perfectly with the slightly creamy texture of a tuna or chicken casserole.

Scrambled Eggs With A Kick

Switching to breakfast, this is one of our favorite uses. It's the perfect eye opener! Just mix it in while the eggs are cooking. We also love a fork full of hot giardiniera folded into an omelet or melded in to eggs prepared over hard.

Summary

The uses for hot giardiniera is only limited by your culinary imagination. If you normally use it only on Italian beef sandwiches, try it in one of our five suggestions and see what you think. If you've never tried hot giardiniera, come on in and join us! This traditional Italian style condiment will add a zesty accent to any meal.

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