This simple recipe for pickled cherry tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers is perfect for adding a tangy crunch to your meals. It’s refreshing and super easy to make!
I love keeping a jar of these in my fridge. They make a great snack or a tasty topping for sandwiches. Plus, they brighten up any salad like a little burst of sunshine! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems are sweet and juicy, perfect for pickling. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes work well too!
Cucumber: I used a medium cucumber for its crunch. If you prefer, try a pickling cucumber for an even crunchier result, or you can opt for mini cucumbers.
Red Onion: Red onion adds a nice color and mild flavor. You can use white or yellow onions in a pinch, but they will have a stronger flavor than red onions.
Vinegar: White vinegar gives a bright taste. Apple cider vinegar can be an excellent alternative, bringing a different depth of flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the punch of the pickles. Feel free to add more cloves if you love that garlicky flavor! You can omit it for a milder taste.
How Do You Ensure Your Pickles are Perfectly Tangy?
The balance of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt is key for great pickles. Here are steps to get it right:
- Start by boiling the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt together. This ensures everything is well mixed and dissolved before pouring it over the veggies.
- Adjust the sugar based on how sweet you want your pickles. You can add more for sweetness or reduce it for a tangier flavor.
- Don’t skip letting them marinate for at least 24 hours in the fridge. This helps the flavors develop fully!
How to Make Easy Pickled Cherry Tomatoes, Onions & Cucumbers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, washed
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
- Fresh dill sprigs or thyme (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus a little patience as they need to marinate for at least 24 hours in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at a little over a day to enjoy your delicious pickles!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sterilize Your Jar:
Start by cleaning a quart-sized glass jar. Wash it in hot, soapy water, then rinse it well to ensure it’s free of any soap residue. This step is essential for keeping your pickles fresh.
2. Prepare the Brine:
In a small saucepan, mix together the white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it comes to a boil. Stir it gently while it heats, making sure the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Once it’s boiling, remove it from heat.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to layer your veggies! Place the washed cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced cucumber, and red onion into the sterilized jar. Make sure they’re packed nicely for the best flavor!
4. Season It Up:
Add the smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, and mustard seeds (if using) to the jar. If you want to add fresh herbs like dill or thyme, toss those in now for extra flavor. It’s all about what combination you like best!
5. Pour the Brine:
Carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the vegetables in the jar. Make sure all of the veggies are fully submerged in the brine so they pickle evenly.
6. Cool and Refrigerate:
Let your jar sit at room temperature until it cools down. Once it’s cool, seal it with a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. This is where the magic happens!
7. Wait and Enjoy:
Let the pickles marinate for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator before diving in. Trust me, the longer they sit, the better they taste! They’ll keep well for up to two weeks, so enjoy them anytime!
Now, enjoy your crunchy, tangy pickled cherry tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers as a refreshing snack or a delightful addition to your meals! 🍅🥒
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe specifically calls for cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, feel free to substitute or add other veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or even carrots. Just remember that thicker vegetables might need to be thinly sliced to properly absorb the brine.
How Long Do These Pickles Last in the Fridge?
Your pickled cherry tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers will last in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Brine?
Yes! If you prefer a more tangy flavor, you can reduce the amount of sugar or even leave it out entirely. Conversely, if you like it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more sugar to suit your taste.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly! If you opt to use any additional seasonings or flavorings, just ensure they’re plant-based. Enjoy your delicious pickles without any concerns!
