This recipe brings together juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and zesty onions for a tasty pickle mix! It’s super simple and adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
I love how these pickles make my sandwiches pop! Plus, they’re a great way to eat my veggies—who knew healthy could be so delicious? Give it a try, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cherry Tomatoes: These small tomatoes are naturally sweet and juicy, perfect for pickling. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes can also work well.
Cucumber: I recommend using any crisp cucumber variety such as English or Persian cucumbers for a refreshing crunch. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you could even use zucchini!
Red Onion: The red onion adds color and a mild flavor. If you want something sweeter, try shallots, or for less bite, opt for a white onion.
Vinegar: White vinegar gives a clean flavor, but apple cider vinegar adds a fruity twist. You can also use rice vinegar for a milder taste.
Sugar and Salt: Adjust these according to your taste. You can use honey or agave syrup instead of sugar if you prefer a natural sweetener. Sea salt works as a good alternative if you don’t have regular salt.
How Do I Ensure My Pickled Vegetables Stay Crisp?
Keeping your pickles crisp is key! Here are some tips:
- Start with fresh, firm vegetables. Older, softer ones will yield mushy pickles.
- Brining them in a hot vinegar solution helps, but don’t overcook the vegetables.
- Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Cooling helps them crisp up.
- For extra crunch, consider adding a few ice cubes to the brine before pouring it into the jar.
Following these steps will give you the best texture in your pickle mix! Enjoy your homemade pickles in salads, sandwiches, or even on their own as a crunchy snack.
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 (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- Optional: 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- Optional: fresh dill sprigs or fresh thyme
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. To let the flavors meld and for the best taste, you’ll need to refrigerate the pickles for at least 24 hours. So, all in all, it’s super quick to prepare, just give it some time to sit in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing your cherry tomatoes and leaving them whole. Then, grab your cucumber and slice it thinly; you can cut the cucumber into rounds or half-moons if you prefer. Finally, slice the red onion into thin rings. Place all these beautiful veggies into a clean glass jar or container. It helps to layer them for an appealing look!
2. Make the Brine:
In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat this mixture gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the pan from the heat and set aside.
3. Assemble Everything:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Toss in the smashed garlic cloves and black peppercorns to the jar with your vegetables. If you want to spice it up a little, sprinkle in the mustard seeds or some fresh herbs like dill or thyme.
4. Pour the Brine:
Carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables in the jar, making sure everything is completely submerged. Give it a little shake if needed to ensure the brine covers all the ingredients.
5. Cool and Refrigerate:
Allow the jar to cool to room temperature. Once cool, seal the jar with a lid and pop it in the refrigerator.
6. Let It Pickle:
For the best flavor, let your pickles sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours. The longer they sit, the more robust the flavors will be! These delicious pickles can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Enjoy your vibrant, tangy pickled cherry tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers as a snack, side dish, or condiment!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other veggies like radishes, bell peppers, or carrots. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may have varying pickling times, so adjust accordingly.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness or Saltiness?
If you prefer a sweeter pickle, add a bit more sugar to the brine. Conversely, if you’d like less saltiness, reduce the amount of salt slightly. Just remember that the balance of flavors is key for a delicious pickle!
Can I Use This Brine for Other Pickling Projects?
Yes! This brine is versatile and can be used for pickling other types of vegetables as well. Just be mindful that some vegetables may require different slicing methods or brining times. Enjoy experimenting!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pickles in an airtight container in the fridge. They should maintain their flavor and texture for up to 2 weeks. If you notice any changes in color or texture, it’s best to discard them.
