Pickled Beet Aioli Sliders

Name: Pickled Beet Aioli Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 sliders
Ingredients: 4 slider buns; 1 cup pickled beets, sliced; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 4 slices of cheese (optional); Lettuce leaves; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love creating unique flavor combinations, and these Pickled Beet Aioli Sliders are a true favorite. The vibrant color and tangy taste of pickled beets infuse a surprising zest into classic sliders, making them perfect for gatherings. I often serve them at parties, where they never fail to impress and spark conversations. The creamy aioli complements the earthy beets beautifully, and together they create a flavor explosion that is both refreshing and satisfying. Trust me, these sliders will become a regular on your menu once you try them.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:14:27.729Z

When experimenting with flavors, I stumbled upon the idea of combining pickled beets with aioli for a slider, and it was a game changer! I decided to make these sliders for a dinner party and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Everyone loved how the sweet and sour notes of the beets paired with the creamy garlic aioli.

I found that using fresh slider buns helped keep the sliders from becoming soggy. It also allowed the vibrant colors of the beets to stand out, which made the presentation eye-catching. Plus, you can easily adjust the aioli to suit your taste by adding herbs or spices!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Vibrant color that brightens up any plate
Unique flavor pairing that surprises the palate
Easy to assemble for gatherings or quick meals

      

Flavor and Texture Harmony

The combination of pickled beets and aioli creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both tangy and creamy. The vibrancy of the beets not only adds color but also a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the aioli. When preparing the aioli, aim for a balanced garlic flavor; let it sit for a few minutes after mixing to allow the garlic to infuse into the mayonnaise fully. If you find the minced garlic too strong, roasting it beforehand can mellow its sharpness while still enhancing the overall flavor.

In terms of texture, the quinoa plays a vital role. Its fluffy nature provides a satisfying bite that serves as a base for the toppings. Ensure the quinoa is fully cooked but not mushy, as this will prevent the sliders from becoming soggy. Rinse the quinoa well before cooking; this removes bitterness and leads to a cleaner flavor profile that complements the richness of the aioli.

Assembly Tips for Perfect Sliders

To assemble the sliders, start with the bottom half of the bun facing up. A light toast on the skillet not only warms the bun but also adds structural integrity, preventing it from absorbing too much moisture from the toppings. As you layer, I recommend placing the quinoa first—this acts as a stabilizer for the wetter ingredients like the pickled beets and aioli. Make sure the beets are somewhat dry after slicing to avoid excess moisture that could make the bun soggy.

When spreading the aioli, consider using a spatula for an even layer. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor. If you want an extra flavor kick, add a few drops of hot sauce to the aioli for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the beets without overpowering them.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

4 slider buns
1 cup pickled beets, sliced
1 cup cooked quinoa
4 slices of cheese (optional)
Lettuce leaves

For the Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Make the Aioli

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and set aside.

Prepare the Sliders

Toast the slider buns lightly on a skillet. On the bottom half of each bun, layer the cooked quinoa, sliced pickled beets, and cheese if using.

Assemble the Sliders

Top the beets with a lettuce leaf, generously spread the garlic aioli, and place the top half of the bun to finish.

Serve

Serve the sliders immediately, garnished with additional pickled beets on the side if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the aioli with herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost!

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These sliders can be made ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. Prepare the aioli and quinoa in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy, simply toast the slider buns and assemble as directed. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully if made a day ahead.

If you find that the pickled beets have released too much liquid, place them on a paper towel to absorb the excess moisture before assembling. This simple step will help maintain the integrity of the sliders during storage.

Creative Variations

Feel free to get creative with your sliders! Consider adding sliced avocado for a creamy texture or even some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick. If you're looking for a vegan version, swap out the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative; many brands make great vegan mayonnaise that won't compromise on flavor.

Another fun variation is to change the cheese. While the original recipe suggests cheese as optional, try a tangy goat cheese or even a smoked gouda for added depth. The smoky notes can enhance the earthy qualities of the pickled beets, turning these sliders into a gourmet treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the aioli in advance?

Yes, the aioli can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.

→ What can I substitute for quinoa?

You can use cooked lentils or rice as an alternative to quinoa.

→ Are these sliders vegetarian?

Yes, these sliders are vegetarian-friendly, but you can always add protein like grilled chicken or turkey if desired.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.