Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes Recipe
If you want to bring a little zesty Southern charm to your snack table or cheeseboard, Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes are a must-try! This tangy, crunchy treat is a beloved staple in Southern kitchens, perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and a satisfying bite. With just a handful of ingredients and hardly any fuss, you’ll capture the essence of summer’s harvest in every delicious, tangy mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes the best recipes are built on simplicity, and Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes are no exception. Each ingredient in this line-up plays a key role, contributing crispness, aroma, heat, or that distinct savory tang we all crave. Here’s what you need and why:
- Green tomatoes: Firm and unripe, these hold their shape and bring a tart pop that’s perfect for pickling.
- White vinegar: A classic pickling acid that sharpens the flavor and helps preserve those gorgeous green tomatoes.
- Water: Balances the acidity, ensuring the brine doesn’t overpower the natural tomato flavor.
- Kosher salt: Essential for the traditional brine and for bringing out all those bold, bright notes.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch rounds off the sharpness without making these pickles sweet.
- Garlic cloves: Smashed, these infuse each bite with just the right amount of savoriness.
- Black peppercorns: Lends gentle heat and deep earthy undertones.
- Mustard seeds: Brings characteristic Southern spice and slight pungency.
- Dill seeds: For a subtle herbal aroma, reminiscent of summer gardens.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle these in for a lively kick!
- Fresh dill sprigs: Finish the jars with a fresh flavor and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes
Step 1: Pack the Jars
Start by slicing your green tomatoes into thick rounds or wedges—there’s no need for perfection here, just ensure they’re substantial enough to keep their crunch. Pack the slices tightly into clean glass jars, leaving about half an inch at the top. Don’t be shy; the tighter the pack, the less floating later!
Step 2: Prepare the Brine
In a medium saucepan, stir together the white vinegar, water, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, making sure to stir until the salt and sugar fully dissolve. The steamy aroma of vinegar is the best sign that Southern magic is happening!
Step 3: Add the Spices and Dill
Once your jars are packed tight, scatter in the smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, dill seeds, and if you’re feeling bold, a touch of red pepper flakes. Tuck a fresh dill sprig into each jar for that iconic herbal fragrance.
Step 4: Pour the Hot Brine
Now, carefully pour the hot brine over the tomatoes. Make sure they’re completely covered, and tap the jars gently on the counter to release any sneaky air bubbles. This little step helps coat every tomato slice with that delicious brine.
Step 5: Seal, Cool, and Refrigerate
Screw the lids on tightly, let the jars cool to room temperature, then pop them in the fridge. The hardest part? Waiting at least 48 hours before digging in so all those flavors can marry and mellow.
How to Serve Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes
Garnishes
Top your pickled green tomatoes with a little extra fresh dill or some thinly sliced red onion for bright color and even more punchy flavor. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper just before serving can make every bite sparkle.
Side Dishes
These pickles were just made for Southern classics! Serve them alongside barbecue, fried chicken, cornbread, or piled onto a smoky pulled pork sandwich. They’re also fabulous on a charcuterie board with sharp cheeses and cured meats.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be afraid to get artsy: layer slices in a salad, skewer them with olives for a Southern spin on a Bloody Mary, or dice them into a tomato salsa for tacos. However you present them, Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes always steal the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your jars of pickled green tomatoes will keep happily in the fridge for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re always fully submerged in brine and use a clean fork every time you reach in to keep them bright and crisp.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this recipe, as it can ruin that craveable crunch. For the best texture and flavor, stick with refrigerator storage—you’ll be glad you did!
Reheating
These pickles are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat them. In fact, a cool, crisp bite is the whole point; just remove them from the fridge 10 minutes before serving if you prefer them a touch less chilly.
FAQs
Can I use red tomatoes instead of green?
Red tomatoes are far too soft for this style of pickling; stick with firm green ones to keep that satisfying crunch and tartness.
Is it necessary to sterilize the jars?
Because these are refrigerator pickles, as long as your jars are freshly washed and rinsed well, there’s no need for traditional canning sterilization. Just make sure they’re completely clean before packing.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even slip in a sliced jalapeño. For a milder batch, simply leave them out.
How long do I have to wait before eating them?
For peak flavor, give your Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes at least 48 hours to soak up the brine in the fridge. A little patience is richly rewarded here!
What can I do with leftover brine?
Don’t toss it! Use the leftover brine in salad dressings, marinades, or even as a punchy addition to a vinaigrette or potato salad. It adds a fun twist to all kinds of dishes.
Final Thoughts
Ready to add a tangy Southern classic to your table? Dive into a batch of Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes and experience the irresistible mix of crunch, spice, and refreshing tartness that makes this recipe a forever favorite. Give it a try and make your next gathering just a little more Southern—and a whole lot more delicious.
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Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus 48 hours pickling time)
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
Learn how to make delicious Savory Southern-Style Pickled Green Tomatoes at home with this easy recipe. These tangy and flavorful pickles are perfect for snacking or adding to sandwiches!
Ingredients
For the Pickled Green Tomatoes:
- 2 pounds green tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds or wedges
- 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon dill seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 sprigs fresh dill
Instructions
- Pack the Tomatoes: Pack the sliced green tomatoes tightly into clean glass jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
- Prepare the Brine: In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve. Remove from heat.
- Add Flavorings: Distribute the garlic cloves, peppercorns, mustard seeds, dill seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh dill evenly among the jars.
- Pour the Brine: Carefully pour the hot brine over the tomatoes, covering them completely. Tap the jars gently to release any air bubbles and seal with lids.
- Chill and Enjoy: Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 48 hours before eating for the best flavor.
Notes
- These pickles will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
- Great as a snack, on sandwiches, or served alongside grilled meats.
- Adjust spice level to taste by increasing or omitting the red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Pickling
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 10
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
