The Viral Jersey Pickled Tomatoes—Made the Right Way with Green Tomatoes
If you’ve been seeing those Jersey dill pickled tomatoes all over lately, here’s the detail that actually matters:
👉 They’re made with green tomatoes, not ripe ones.
That’s what gives them that signature crunch, clean bite, and true pickle texture—more like a dill pickle than a soft marinated tomato.
These are bold, garlicky, loaded with fresh dill, and ridiculously addictive. And the best part? This is a quick refrigerator recipe—no canning needed.
More Pickled Recipes You’ll Love
Why You’ll Love These
- Perfectly crisp (thanks to green tomatoes)
- Big dill pickle flavor
- Ready in 24–48 hours
- Easy, no canning required
- Great way to use end-of-season tomatoes
Ingredients
- 1½–2 pounds firm green tomatoes, sliced into wedges or thick slices
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 large bunch fresh dill (or 2 teaspoons dried)
Brine
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
How to Make Jersey Dill Pickled Green Tomatoes
1. Prep the Tomatoes
Wash and slice your green tomatoes into wedges or thick slices. They should be firm and unripe—this is key for that crisp texture. Use a toothpick to and poke some holes into the tomato to help it absorb the brine.
2. Layer the Jar
In a large mason jar or container, add:
- Garlic
- Dill
- Peppercorns
- Mustard seeds
- Red pepper flakes
Then pack in the green tomatoes tightly.
3. Make the Brine
In a saucepan, combine water, vinegar, salt, and sugar. Bring to a simmer until dissolved.
4. Pour & Cool
Pour the hot brine over the tomatoes until fully submerged.
Let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate.
5. Chill
Refrigerate for at least 24 hours—but 48 hours is where they really shine.
What Do Pickled Green Tomatoes Taste Like?
- Crisp and slightly firm (like a pickle)
- Tangy and vinegary
- Bold garlic + dill flavor
- Slight natural tartness from the green tomatoes
👉 Think: a dill pickle + fried green tomato vibes combined
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use fully green, unripe tomatoes (not just slightly under-ripe)
- Slice evenly for consistent texture
- Don’t skip the dill—it’s the signature flavor
- Keep everything submerged in brine
Variations
- Add sliced onions for extra bite
- Toss in jalapeños for heat
- Use apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter tang
- Add bay leaves for a more traditional pickle flavor
If you love making things from scratch, don’t miss my homemade pantry staples…
Pickle Lovers are Also Loving These
Jersey Dill Pickled Green Tomatoes (Easy Refrigerator Recipe)
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 6–8 SERVINGS 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Jersey dill pickled green tomatoes are crisp, tangy, and packed with garlic and fresh dill flavor. This easy refrigerator pickle recipe comes together with simple ingredients and is ready in just 24 hours—no canning required.
Ingredients
- 1½–2 pounds firm green tomatoes, sliced into wedges or thick slices
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 large bunch fresh dill (or 2 teaspoons dried dill)
Brine
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1½ tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the tomatoes:
Wash tomatoes and poke holes in them with toothpick. - Layer the jar:
Add garlic, dill, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and red pepper flakes to a large mason jar. Pack in the tomatoes tightly. - Make the brine:
In a saucepan, combine water, vinegar, salt, and sugar. Bring to a simmer, stirring until dissolved. - Pour the brine:
Carefully pour the hot brine over the tomatoes until fully submerged. - Cool and refrigerate:
Let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate. - Chill:
Let sit for at least 24 hours (48 hours for best flavor).
Notes
- Use firm, fully green tomatoes for the best crunch
- Keep tomatoes fully submerged in brine
- Flavor improves after 1–2 days
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
- Prep Time: 15 MINUTES
- Marinate Time: 12-24 HOURS
- Cook Time: 5 MINUTES
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: pickling
- Cuisine: American
How to Serve Them
These are insanely good:
- Straight from the jar
- With grilled meats
- On burgers or sandwiches
- Chopped into pasta salad
Storage
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
FAQ
Can I use red tomatoes instead?
You can—but they’ll be softer and less crisp. Green tomatoes are what give this recipe its signature texture.
Do I need to can these?
Nope—this is a refrigerator pickle recipe.
Why are my tomatoes soft?
They were likely too ripe. Stick with firm, green tomatoes.
Final Thoughts
These Jersey dill pickled green tomatoes are the kind of recipe that feels old-school but is blowing up again for a reason. They’re simple, bold, and packed with flavor—and once you try them, you’ll be hooked.
If you’ve got green tomatoes sitting on your counter, this is exactly what to make next.
