Dilly Pickled Asparagus

Total Time

Prep: 30 min. Process: 20 min.

Makes

6 pints

Updated: Nov. 09, 2022
This pickled asparagus recipe is really popular with my family. My granddaughter always tells me, "Oh, Grammy, these are soooo good!" They're easy to prepare and they turn out perfect every time. My husband loves it when I add a dried hot pepper to each jar. —Annie Merrell, Fenelon Falls, Ontario
Dilly Pickled Asparagus Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 6 pounds fresh asparagus
  • 3 large garlic cloves, halved
  • 6 teaspoons dill seed
  • 6 teaspoons mustard seed
  • 36 whole peppercorns
  • 2 quarts water
  • 2-1/2 cups white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons canning salt

Directions

  1. Wash, drain and trim asparagus; cut into 4-1/2-in. spears. Discard ends or save for another use. Place asparagus in a large container; cover with ice water. In each of 6 hot 1-pint jars, place half of a garlic clove, 1 teaspoon dill seed, 1 teaspoon mustard seed and 6 peppercorns.
  2. In a Dutch oven, bring the water, vinegar, sugar and salt to a boil. Drain asparagus; pack in jars to within 1/2 in. of top. Carefully ladle hot mixture into hot pint jars, leaving 1/4-in. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace, if necessary, by adding hot mixture. Wipe rims. Center lids on jars; screw on bands until fingertip tight.
  3. Place jars in canner with simmering water, ensuring that they are completely covered with water. Bring to a boil; process for 20 minutes. Remove jars and cool.
Pickled Asparagus Tips

What other spices can you add to pickled asparagus?

Bay leaves, red pepper flakes, coriander or your favorite fresh herbs are great options to add to pickled asparagus. Take some inspiration from our favorite homemade pickle recipes.

How full should you pack each canning jar with asparagus?

When you make this pickled asparagus recipe, be sure to leave room for the canning liquid—pack jars within 1/2 inch of the top. Read more of our canning tips to make sure your next batch is your best.

How should you store pickled asparagus?

Store pickled asparagus in a dry, cool place (like a pantry, cabinet or basement) for up to 1 year. Have leftover asparagus? Here are more tasty ways to use it.

Can you use this recipe for quick pickling? If so, how do you store it and how long does it last?

Yes, you can! the liquid can be used to 'quick pickle' tender stalks of asparagus, too. Make sure canning liquid covers asparagus and let it stand for about an hour. Store in the refrigerator, in an airtight container (with the liquid) for up to 1 week.

—Rashanda Cobbins, Taste of Home Food Editor
Canning Altitude
The processing time listed is for altitudes of 1,000 feet or less. For altitudes up to 3,000 feet, add 5 minutes; 6,000 feet, add 10 minutes; 8,000 feet, add 15 minutes; 10,000 feet, add 20 minutes.

Nutrition Facts

About 4 spears: 18 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 303mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 2g protein.