Dilled Green Tomatoes(5 Quarts)
A tangy and flavorful pickled green tomato recipe featuring dill, garlic, celery, and green pepper, perfect for preserving seasonal produce and adding zest to meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pack little green cherry tomatoes or quartered small tomatoes into sterile jars.
- Scatter slices of celery, green pepper, dill, and garlic throughout the jars.
- Bring water, vinegar, and salt to a boil, then boil for 5 minutes.
- Pour the boiling mixture over the vegetables in the jars, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Seal the jars and store. Allow the pickles to mature for a few weeks for optimal flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, use firm, unblemished tomatoes. If you can't find dill, substitute with dill seeds or even tarragon for a different twist. Adjust the salt to taste, but be cautious as it aids in preserving the tomatoes. You can also add spices like mustard seeds or peppercorns for extra flavor. Make sure your jars are properly sterilized to ensure safety.
Serving Suggestions
These dilled green tomatoes make a crispy and tangy addition to any picnic spread, especially alongside dishes like Picnic Shoulder Ham. Serve them as a crunchy topping on burgers or sandwiches, or enjoy them as a zesty snack. They also pair well with cheese platters or charcuterie boards, adding a delightful contrast to rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Once sealed, store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least a few weeks to let the flavors develop. After opening, refrigerate any unused pickles and consume within a few weeks. If you have leftovers, they can be enjoyed cold straight from the jar or used in salads, sandwiches, or as a side dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dilled Green Tomatoes(5 Quarts) contains roughly 53 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1882mg per serving (82% 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 for this recipe?
While this recipe is designed for green tomatoes, you can experiment with ripe ones. However, the texture and flavor will differ, leading to a softer pickle. For the best results, stick with firm green tomatoes to maintain the desired crunchiness.
How long should I wait before eating the pickles?
It's best to wait at least two to three weeks after sealing the jars before enjoying the dilled green tomatoes. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify. If you're eager to taste them sooner, a minimum of one week can still give you a pleasant flavor, albeit not as robust.
Can I adjust the vinegar in the recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the vinegar to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using a mix of vinegar and water, but keep in mind that this may affect the preservation quality. For a tangier profile, consider using apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a unique twist.
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).