Sliced Green Tomato Crisp Pickle
A tangy and sweet green tomato pickle with warming spices, perfect for adding zest to sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or as a flavorful side for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix lime and water well, letting any lime that does not dissolve settle to the bottom.
- Select, wash, dry, and slice the green tomatoes. Pour off the lime water and add the sliced tomatoes to it.
- Soak the tomatoes in lime water for 24 hours, then wash each piece well under running water and dry.
- Mix sugar and vinegar and pour over the prepared tomatoes.
- Let the tomatoes soak in the sugar-vinegar mixture for 12 hours.
- Add pickling spices and a 2-inch stick of cinnamon, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook for 30 minutes after boiling begins.
- Place the cooked tomato slices in churn or glass jars.
- Unsealed jars will keep well for storage.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the best flavor, use fresh, firm green tomatoes. If you can't find pickling spices, a mix of mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and dill can work as a substitute. For a spicier kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños to the mix. Make sure to wash the tomatoes thoroughly after soaking to remove excess lime, which can impart a bitter taste.
Serving Suggestions
These sliced green tomato crisp pickles make a great accompaniment to sandwiches or can be served alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast. They pair beautifully with Easy, Delicious Baked Chicken or can be enjoyed as part of a charcuterie board. Try them in a salad for an extra zing!
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickled green tomatoes in sealed glass jars in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor development. Once opened, keep them refrigerated and consume within 2-3 weeks. They can be enjoyed cold straight from the jar or added to dishes like sandwiches or salads for a tangy crunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sliced Green Tomato Crisp Pickle contains roughly 1056 calories, with 15g protein, 173g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (167% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1211mg per serving (53% 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 ripe tomatoes can be used, they will not provide the same crisp texture that green tomatoes offer. Green tomatoes are firmer and have a tangy flavor that is ideal for pickling. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider using a mix of green and slightly under-ripe tomatoes.
How long do the pickles need to sit before they are ready to eat?
After preparing, the pickles should be allowed to soak in the sugar-vinegar mixture for at least 12 hours. For best results, let them sit for a few days in the refrigerator to enhance the flavor. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.
Is it necessary to process the jars for long-term storage?
If you plan to store the pickles for an extended period, it's advisable to process the jars in a boiling water bath to ensure they are sealed properly. This method prevents spoilage and allows you to enjoy your pickles months later, but unsealed jars can still be stored in the fridge.
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).