If you’re looking for a tangy, vibrant burst of flavor that’s as visually delightful as it is delicious, the Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe is an absolute must-try. These little jewels soak up a perfectly balanced brine that combines tartness, subtle sweetness, and a gentle kick, making them a standout addition to any snack, salad, or charcuterie board. This recipe is quick to prepare, relying on fresh, simple ingredients that transform humble cherry tomatoes into a preserve you’ll reach for again and again.

Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating that irresistible balance of flavor and crunch in your Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe. Each component plays its part, from the bright acidity of white vinegar to the aromatic spices that infuse every bite.

Cherry tomatoes: These small, sweet tomatoes bring vibrant color and juicy texture to the recipe.
White vinegar: Provides the essential tang and preserves the tomatoes beautifully while adding brightness.
Water: Dilutes the vinegar slightly to ensure the pickling brine isn’t too sharp.
Sugar: Balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
Sea salt: Enhances the flavors and helps draw moisture from the tomatoes for ideal pickling.
Garlic cloves: Add a warm, pungent depth to the brine that livens up the flavor.
Black peppercorns: Contribute subtle spiciness and a woody aroma to the mix.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Provide a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your preference.
Mustard seeds: Bring a slight crunch and a hint of earthiness that complements the other spices.
Fresh dill: Offers a fresh, herbaceous note that’s iconic in pickling recipes.
Bay leaf: Adds a layer of complexity with its subtle herbal fragrance.

How to Make Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes

Start by washing and drying the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Using a toothpick or skewer, gently prick each tomato once. This little trick helps the flavorful brine seep inside, ensuring every bite is packed with tangy goodness.

Step 2: Layer the Flavors in the Jar

Carefully pack the tomatoes into a clean glass jar. As you layer them in, tuck in the smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes if using, mustard seeds, fresh dill sprigs, and the bay leaf. This layering process allows the spices and herbs to mingle with the tomatoes for rich, infused flavor.

Step 3: Make the Pickling Brine

In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and sea salt. Heat over medium flame until the sugar and salt completely dissolve, bringing the mixture just to a boil. This ensures a well-blended brine that will penetrate deeply into the tomatoes.

Step 4: Pour the Brine Over Tomatoes

Carefully pour the hot brine into the jar, making sure all the cherry tomatoes are fully submerged. This step locks in the flavors and preserves the tomatoes for days to come.

Step 5: Cool and Refrigerate

Let the jar cool down to room temperature before sealing it tightly with a lid. Once sealed, pop the jar into the refrigerator to begin the pickling process.

Step 6: Let the Flavors Develop

The magic really happens with time. Allow the Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe to sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours, though waiting 3 to 5 days will bring out the most vibrant and complex flavors. When chilled, these tomatoes are ready to elevate your meals.

How to Serve Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe for a lively contrast. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also enhance their natural sweetness and add richness to each bite.

Side Dishes

These pickled gems shine alongside creamy cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta, offer a surprising pop next to roasted meats, or pair perfectly with crusty bread and butter for a simple, satisfying snack.

Creative Ways to Present

Beyond serving them straight from the jar, try adding Pickled Cherry Tomatoes to grain bowls, toss them into salads, or even use them as an unexpected topping for grilled pizzas and bruschettas. Their tangy crunch can bring new life to countless dishes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe stored in the refrigerator in an airtight jar. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks, making it easy to enjoy this treat anytime.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for pickled cherry tomatoes since it can ruin their texture. The cell walls of fresh tomatoes break down when frozen, resulting in mushiness once thawed, which takes away from the delightful crunch the recipe aims for.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat pickled tomatoes—they are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature to preserve their crisp bite and bright flavors. Simply take them out of the fridge and serve as desired.

FAQs

How long do pickled cherry tomatoes last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your pickled cherry tomatoes will stay fresh and tasty for up to two weeks. Always use clean utensils when removing them from the jar to maintain quality.

Can I use other types of vinegar?

You can experiment with apple cider or rice vinegar, but white vinegar is preferred for its clean, sharp acidity that highlights the tomatoes without overpowering their natural sweetness.

Do I have to prick the tomatoes before pickling?

Pricking each tomato helps the brine penetrate more thoroughly, leading to a deeper, more consistent flavor throughout. While it’s not mandatory, it definitely improves the end result.

Can this recipe be made spicy?

Absolutely! Adding more red pepper flakes or tossing in a sliced fresh chili will increase the heat to your liking. The recipe is very adaptable to different spice levels.

Is it necessary to use fresh dill?

Fresh dill provides the best flavor impact because of its brightness and aromatic oils. However, if you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill can be used in smaller amounts, though the flavor will be less vibrant.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly joyful about tasting your Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe after waiting just a few days to let all those wonderful flavors blend. They are a simple yet exciting way to brighten up meals and snacks with their tangy, crunchy burst. I encourage you to try making this recipe—it’s easy, quick, and rewards you with pickled delight that’s impossible to resist!

Pickled Cherry Tomatoes Recipe

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4.1 from 71 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 24 hours to 5 days pickling time)
Yield: 10 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Pickled Cherry Tomatoes recipe offers a tangy and flavorful way to preserve cherry tomatoes with a zesty brine of vinegar, garlic, spices, and fresh dill. Perfect as a tangy snack, salad topping, or appetizer, these pickles are quick to prepare and develop deeper flavor after a few days in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

Scale

Pickling Ingredients

2 cups cherry tomatoes
3/4 cup white vinegar
3/4 cup water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon sea salt
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

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Instructions

Prepare Tomatoes: Wash and thoroughly dry the cherry tomatoes. Using a toothpick or skewer, prick each tomato once to allow the brine to better penetrate during pickling.
Pack the Jar: Place the tomatoes into a clean glass jar, layering in the garlic cloves, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes if using, mustard seeds, fresh dill sprigs, and the bay leaf evenly among the tomatoes.
Make the Brine: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and sea salt. Stir continuously until the sugar and salt have fully dissolved and the mixture comes to a boil.
Pour Brine Over Tomatoes: Carefully pour the hot brine into the jar over the tomatoes and spices, ensuring the cherry tomatoes are completely submerged under the liquid for optimal pickling.
Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the jar to cool to room temperature uncovered. Once cooled, seal the jar tightly with a lid and place it in the refrigerator.
Pickle Time: Let the tomatoes pickle for at least 24 hours before eating, though they develop the best flavor when left for 3–5 days. Serve chilled and enjoy as a snack or garnish.

Notes

Pricking the tomatoes helps the brine penetrate better but be gentle to avoid bursting the tomatoes.
Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat to the pickles.
Use a clean sterilized glass jar to ensure food safety and longer preservation.
Store refrigerated and consume within 2 weeks for the best taste and quality.
These pickled tomatoes are great served chilled as an appetizer or tossed in salads for an extra zing.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Condiment
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American