Zesty Pickled Cherry Tomatoes with Garlic and Basil
Ingredients:
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, washed and stems removed
– 1 cup distilled white vinegar
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
– 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
– Optional: 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Prepare the jars: Sterilize two pint-sized mason jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Let them cool slightly before use.
2. Pack the tomatoes: In the sterilized jars, pack the cherry tomatoes tightly, leaving some space at the top. If using, add the thinly sliced red onion for added flavor and color.
3. Make the brine: In a saucepan, combine the distilled white vinegar, water, kosher salt, sugar, smashed garlic, black peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
4. Add the basil: Once the brine is boiling, remove it from heat and stir in the torn basil leaves. This will infuse the brine with a fresh herbal aroma.
5. Fill the jars: Carefully pour the hot brine over the packed tomatoes in the jars, ensuring that the garlic and spices are evenly distributed. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
6. Seal and cool: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
7. Process the jars: For long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Ensure the water covers the jars by at least an inch. Remove the jars and let them cool completely on a clean kitchen towel.
8. Storage: Once cooled, check that the lids have sealed properly (the center should not pop back when pressed). Store the jars in a cool, dark place.
Shelf life: Zesty pickled cherry tomatoes can be stored for up to 1 year. Once opened, keep refrigerated and consume within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor and quality.
Enjoy these vibrant, zesty pickled cherry tomatoes as a delightful addition to salads, sandwiches, or as a tang
