Get ready to spice up your meals with these bold and flavorful pickling tomato recipes! The humble tomato, when pickled in a tangy brine, becomes a whole new culinary superstar. Whether you’re looking for sweet and tangy, smoky and spicy, or fresh and herby flavors, we’ve got you covered. From classic bread-and-butter to international-inspired varieties, our list of 18 recipes will take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of pickled tomatoes, exploring a range of flavors and techniques that will elevate your cooking game. From quick refrigerator pickles to fermented delights, each recipe is designed to be easy to make and bursting with flavor. So, let’s get started and discover the magic of pickling tomatoes!
Spicy Garlic Pickled Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your snacks or meals with these sweet and spicy pickles! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cherry tomatoes with a kick of garlic and spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, garlic, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the cherry tomato halves into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the tomatoes, making sure they are completely covered.
5. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (simmering) + 24 hours (pickling)
Sweet and Tangy Pickled Green Tomatoes
Sweet and Tangy Pickled Green Tomatoes
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these tangy and sweet pickled green tomatoes, perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a side dish. This easy-to-make recipe is a great way to preserve the freshness of green tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1 cup (250ml) water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp mustard seeds
– 1 tsp coriander seeds
– 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced green tomatoes and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. Drain the tomato mixture and rinse with cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, turmeric powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Pack the tomato slices into clean glass jars or containers. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the tomatoes, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace.
6. Seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature. Store in refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (pickling liquid), plus storage time
Quick Refrigerator Pickled Heirloom Tomatoes
Elevate your salads, sandwiches, and snacks with this simple recipe for refrigerator pickled heirloom tomatoes. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll enjoy the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh tomatoes preserved in a briny bath.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh dill weed or other herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced tomatoes to the pickling liquid, making sure they’re fully submerged.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
4. Just before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Serve the pickled tomatoes chilled, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Balsamic Pickled Roma Tomatoes with Basil
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these sweet and tangy pickled tomatoes, perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint Roma tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tomato halves, balsamic vinegar, water, olive oil, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir gently to coat all the tomatoes evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. After the pickling time, give the mixture a good stir and taste. If desired, add more balsamic vinegar or basil for extra flavor.
Cooking Time:
– Refrigeration time: 24-48 hours
– No cooking required!
Spicy Korean Gochujang Pickled Tomatoes
Add a sweet and spicy twist to your meals with these flavorful pickled tomatoes, infused with the bold flavors of gochujang, a traditional Korean chili paste. Perfect as a topping for rice bowls, noodle dishes, or as a snack on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, gochujang, rice vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well to coat the tomatoes evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours for maximum flavor development.
4. Before serving, give the pickled tomatoes a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Cooking Time: None required – simply refrigerate and enjoy!
Dill and Mustard Seed Pickled Grape Tomatoes
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this simple recipe for pickling grape tomatoes. The combination of tangy dill and spicy mustard seed creates a unique and addictive taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 2 tbsp (30 g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp (5 ml) salt
– 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) ground black pepper
– 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp (5 ml) mustard seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine grape tomatoes, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a small saucepan, bring vinegar, water, and dill to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add mustard seeds and stir.
5. Pour the pickling liquid over the tomato mixture and let it cool to room temperature.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Enjoy your tangy and sweet pickled grape tomatoes as a side dish, topping, or addition to your favorite recipes!
Smoky Chipotle Pickled Plum Tomatoes
Add a smoky twist to traditional pickled tomatoes with this recipe that combines the sweetness of plum tomatoes, the heat of chipotles, and the depth of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs plum tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 1/4 cup (30 g) granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground chipotle peppers
– 1/2 tsp salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine plum tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, smoked paprika, chipotle peppers, and salt.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Adjust chipotle pepper heat level to your liking by using more or fewer peppers.
– Use these pickled tomatoes as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, or sandwiches.
Lemon-Herb Pickled Yellow Tomatoes
Elevate your snacking game with this refreshing recipe that combines the sweetness of yellow tomatoes with the brightness of citrus and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellow tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup (250ml) white wine vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine tomato slices, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, parsley, and salt.
2. Toss gently to coat the tomatoes evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Just before serving, drizzle olive oil over the pickled tomatoes and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Thai-Inspired Pickled Tomatoes with Chili and Lime
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with these tangy and spicy pickled tomatoes, infused with the bold flavors of Thailand. Perfect as a condiment or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp palm sugar (or brown sugar)
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp Thai red chili flakes
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, palm sugar, ginger, and chili flakes. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the cherry tomatoes into a clean glass jar or container. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the tomatoes.
4. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Store for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (simmering time)
Classic Bread-and-Butter Pickled Tomatoes
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional pickling, this recipe brings out the best in fresh tomatoes. Perfect for topping sandwiches, salads, or using as a condiment.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter and black pepper.
4. Pack tomato halves into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Pour hot pickling liquid over the tomatoes, making sure they’re fully covered.
6. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Store for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Indian-Style Pickled Tomatoes with Turmeric and Fenugreek
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this recipe for pickled tomatoes, infused with the warmth of turmeric and fenugreek. Perfect as a condiment or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup mustard oil or vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated turmeric
– 1 tablespoon fenugreek leaves (kasoori methi), chopped
– 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vinegar, to cover (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, oil, turmeric, fenugreek leaves, mustard seeds, and red chili powder. Mix well.
2. Cover the mixture with vinegar, making sure that the tomatoes are completely submerged.
3. Refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 24 hours (includes refrigeration time)
Sweet Pickled Tomato Relish with Onions
A tangy and sweet condiment perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine tomatoes, onions, sugar, vinegar, water, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic and Black Pepper Pickled Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your meals with these sweet and tangy pickled cherry tomatoes, bursting with the flavors of garlic and black pepper. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or topping for sandwiches and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp (5 ml) black pepper
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, garlic, and black pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Pack the cherry tomatoes into a clean glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the tomatoes, leaving about 1/2 inch (1 cm) headspace.
5. Add salt if desired, then seal the jar or container.
6. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mexican Pickled Tomatoes with Jalapeños and Cilantro
Add a burst of flavor to your tacos, grilled meats, or veggies with this easy-to-make pickled tomato recipe. The combination of tangy tomatoes, spicy jalapeños, and fresh cilantro creates a delicious condiment perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) water
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh cilantro
– 2-3 jalapeños, sliced into thin rings
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine halved tomatoes, vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.
2. Stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Add chopped cilantro and sliced jalapeños to the tomato mixture.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 7 days.
5. Once pickled, remove the tomatoes from the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your delicious Mexican Pickled Tomatoes with Jalapeños and Cilantro!
Rosemary and Red Wine Vinegar Pickled Tomatoes
Elevate your cooking with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of fresh tomatoes, the earthiness of rosemary, and the tanginess of red wine vinegar. Perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 teaspoons)
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cherry tomatoes, red wine vinegar, olive oil, chopped rosemary, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes have released their juices and the liquid has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Honey Pickled Tomatoes with Ginger
Add a sweet and spicy twist to your pickling game with this recipe that combines the natural sweetness of honey, the heat of chili flakes, and the warmth of ginger. These Spicy Honey Pickled Tomatoes are perfect as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine honey, apple cider vinegar, water, ginger, and chili flakes. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Pack the tomato halves into a clean glass jar. Pour the hot pickling liquid over the tomatoes, making sure they are fully covered.
4. Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pickled Tomato and Red Onion Salad
This refreshing salad combines sweet and tangy flavors from pickled tomatoes and red onions with a hint of spice. Perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes and red onion slices.
2. In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Pour the pickling liquid over the tomato and onion mixture. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight before serving.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (pickling liquid) + 30 minutes (resting time)
Fermented Pickled Tomatoes with Garlic and Dill
Fermented Pickled Tomatoes with Garlic and Dill Recipe
Savor the tangy flavor of summer tomatoes, infused with pungent garlic and fresh dill, as they ferment into a delicious condiment. This recipe yields a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 4 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and halved
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1 tbsp caraway seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, kosher salt, and water. Let it sit for 2 hours to allow the tomatoes to release their juices.
2. Rinse the tomato mixture under cold running water to remove excess salt. Drain well.
3. Pack the tomato mixture into a clean glass jar or container, leaving about 1 inch of headspace.
4. Add minced garlic and chopped dill on top of the tomatoes.
5. Cover the jar with a lid and let it ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily to release carbon dioxide.
6. After fermentation is complete, store the pickled tomatoes in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 0 days (fermentation time varies depending on environment)
Enjoy your Fermented Pickled Tomatoes with Garlic and Dill as a side dish or use them as a topping for sandwiches, salads, or burgers!
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with 18 bold and flavorful pickling tomato recipes! From sweet and tangy to smoky and spicy, these unique recipes will add a burst of flavor to any dish. Try making Spicy Garlic Pickled Cherry Tomatoes, Sweet and Tangy Pickled Green Tomatoes, or Smoky Chipotle Pickled Plum Tomatoes, among many others. Whether you’re looking for a classic bread-and-butter pickling recipe or something more adventurous like Indian-Style Pickled Tomatoes with Turmeric and Fenugreek, there’s something for every taste bud.
