How To Make Colourful Pickles with Cherry Tomatoes and Onions

 

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Discover the easy, vibrant way to pickle cherry tomatoes and onions at home—packed with flavor, crunch, and color!

Why Colourful Pickles Are a Must-Have in Your Fridge

There’s something magical about opening your fridge and seeing a jar of bright, homemade pickles staring back at you. Especially when they’re not just any pickles—but a vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes and onions! These colourful pickles are more than just eye candy; they’re tangy, slightly sweet, refreshingly crisp, and the perfect accompaniment to sandwiches, burgers, charcuterie boards, or even straight from the jar.

If you’ve never pickled cherry tomatoes before, you’re in for a real treat.

They burst with flavor, absorb the pickling brine beautifully, and look absolutely stunning when layered with sliced onions and spices. Whether you’re new to pickling or a seasoned pro, this recipe is fun, fast, and totally doable.

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Ingredients You'll Need

Before we dive into the process, let’s gather the ingredients. This quick-pickle recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly items you probably already have.

For the Pickles:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes (red, yellow, or mixed)

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, smashed

• 1 tsp whole mustard seeds

• 1/2 tsp black peppercorns

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

• 1/2 tsp turmeric (for extra color)

• A few fresh dill sprigs or bay leaves (optional)

For the Brine:

• 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a tangier flavor)

• 1 cup water

• 1 1/2 tbsp kosher salt

• 1 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

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Step-by-Step: How to Make Colourful Pickles

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

Wash your cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Use a toothpick to gently poke a hole in each tomato—this helps them absorb the brine faster. Thinly slice the red onion into rings or half-moons. If you're using dill or bay leaves, prep those as well.

Step 2: Pack the Jars

In a clean, sterilized mason jar, layer the cherry tomatoes and red onion slices. Tuck in the garlic cloves, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and red pepper flakes. If you’re using dill, nestle a sprig or two in the middle and at the top.

Step 3: Make the Brine

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the vinegar, water, salt, sugar, and turmeric. Stir until the salt and sugar dissolve completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Pour the Brine

Carefully pour the hot brine over the tomatoes and onions in the jar. Make sure the veggies are fully submerged. Use a clean spoon to press them down if needed.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Let the jar cool to room temperature. Once cooled, seal with a lid and refrigerate. The pickles will be ready to eat in 24 hours, but the flavor deepens beautifully over the next few days.

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What Makes These Pickles So Unique?

1. Visual Appeal:

The burst of red and gold tomatoes paired with the bold purple hue of red onions creates an Instagram-worthy jar of goodness.

2. Crunch + Flavor:

The tomatoes maintain their structure while soaking up the tangy brine, and the onions mellow into a slightly sweet, zesty treat.

3. Versatility:

Serve them with grilled cheese, burgers, tacos, rice bowls, or even in salads. You’ll be surprised how fast they disappear!

Tips to Make Your Pickles Even Better

• Use different tomato varieties: Try grape tomatoes, heirlooms, or yellow cherries for a twist.

• Add herbs: Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme can add unique layers of flavor.

• Spice it up: Adjust the red pepper flakes or toss in a jalapeño slice if you like heat.

• Try flavored vinegar: Rice vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar can add subtle nuances.

How Long Do These Pickles Last?

These quick pickles will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, though they’re usually eaten much sooner! Always use clean utensils when serving to maintain freshness.

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Why You'll Love Making These Pickles at Home

In a world filled with processed foods and artificial additives, making your own pickles feels like a small, flavorful act of rebellion. It connects you to the food you eat and brings creativity into your kitchen. Plus, you get total control over ingredients, spice level, and sweetness.

It’s a delicious way to reduce food waste and celebrate seasonal produce.

Share the Pickling Joy!

One of the best parts of making these pickles? They make adorable, thoughtful gifts. Pour your colorful pickles into mini mason jars, tie a ribbon around the lid, and you’ve got a homemade foodie gift everyone will love.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to brighten up your meals with something healthy, homemade, and totally drool-worthy, these colourful pickles with cherry tomatoes and onions are it. They’re simple, beautiful, and bursting with flavor.

So go ahead—grab some cherry tomatoes and start pickling!

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