Description
Delight in these crisp and tangy Pickled Cherry Tomatoes, a simple and flavorful snack or condiment that brightens up any dish. Bursting with freshness and a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory, these quick-pickled tomatoes come together in just 15 minutes of prep and develop their full flavor after a few days in the fridge. Ideal for salads, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards, this easy recipe uses basic pantry staples and aromatic spices for a refreshing bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pickling Ingredients
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3/4 cup white vinegar
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
Spices and Aromatics
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 2 sprigs fresh dill
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Use a toothpick or skewer to prick each tomato once, allowing the pickling brine to penetrate and infuse the tomatoes with flavor.
- Layer Ingredients in Jar: Place the tomatoes into a clean glass jar. Add the smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes (if using), mustard seeds, fresh dill sprigs, and bay leaf, layering them evenly among the tomatoes for balanced seasoning.
- Make the Brine: In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and sea salt. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved to create a clear, flavorful brine.
- Pour Brine Over Tomatoes: Carefully pour the hot brine over the packed tomatoes and spices in the jar, making sure the tomatoes are completely submerged to ensure even pickling and preservation.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the jar to cool down to room temperature before sealing it with a lid. Place the jar in the refrigerator to chill and start the pickling process.
- Pickle Time: Let the cherry tomatoes pickle for at least 24 hours, though waiting 3 to 5 days will enhance the flavor and texture. Serve the pickled cherry tomatoes chilled as a flavorful snack or accompaniment.
Notes
- Pricking the tomatoes helps the flavors penetrate more deeply and speeds up the pickling process.
- If you prefer a spicier pickle, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Use a clean jar with an airtight seal to maximize shelf life and freshness.
- Pickled tomatoes can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
- Experiment with adding other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
