How to Make Easy Pickled Vegetables (vegan, gluten-free, salt-free)

or 2 extra large raw carrots, peeled and sliced into 4-inch by 1/2-inch spears

or 2 large raw parsnips, peeled and sliced into 4-inch by 1/2-inch spears (I did not ‘core’ the parsnip, I used the whole thing)

granulated sugar

white distilled vinegar

Salt-Free Citrus Pepper Blend (or a favorite all-purpose or grill seasoning blend), divided – or see optional suggestions below

dry yellow mustard grains, divided

salt, optional and