Dill Green Tomatoes
A tangy, crisp pickled green tomato relish with fresh dill, perfect for snacking or as a condiment, offering a vibrant flavor combination suited for summer and fall gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sterilize 12 to 14 pint jars and set aside.
- Wash and slice the green tomatoes into small pieces.
- Cut the celery ribs into strips.
- Cut the green peppers into strips.
- Peel and crush 12 to 14 garlic cloves.
- Prepare pickling spice mixture according to your preference or recipe.
- Combine vinegar, water, salt, and pickling spice in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Pack the sliced tomatoes, celery, green peppers, garlic, and dill into the prepared jars.
- Pour the hot vinegar brine over the filled jars, leaving appropriate headspace.
- Seal the jars with sterilized lids and process in a boiling water bath if necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use firm green tomatoes that are unblemished. If you can't find fresh dill heads, substitute with dried dill seed, but adjust the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brine for extra heat. Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage.
Serving Suggestions
These dill green tomatoes are a perfect side dish for barbecued meats and pair beautifully with Nikki'S Favorite Barbecue Sauce. You can also serve them alongside cheeses and crackers for a delightful appetizer. They add a zesty touch to salads or can be enjoyed straight from the jar as a snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jars refrigerated and consume within a month. To enjoy the tomatoes, simply remove the desired amount and serve cold or at room temperature. They can be a tasty addition to salads or sandwiches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dill Green Tomatoes contains roughly 791 calories, with 26g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (708% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (234% of the Daily Value), and iron (221% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green ones?
Using ripe tomatoes will alter the flavor and texture of the pickles. Green tomatoes provide a firmer texture and tartness that balances well with the brine. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider using a mix of green and slightly unripe tomatoes.
How long do these pickles need to sit before eating?
For the best flavor, allow the pickles to sit for at least 2-4 weeks after processing. This gives the flavors time to meld and intensify. However, if you're in a hurry, you can taste them after a week, but they will be less tangy.
What can I do if I don't have pickling spice?
If you don't have pickling spice, you can create your own blend using mustard seeds, coriander seeds, allspice, and bay leaves. Adjust the quantities to your taste, but typically a teaspoon of each will create a flavorful alternative that complements the dill and garlic.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).