Vodka-Spiked Cherry Tomatoes with Pepper Salt

Serves: 60 hors d’oeuvres

3 pints firm small red and yellow cherry tomatoes

½ cup vodka

2 tablespoons white-wine vinegar

1 tablespoon superfine granulated sugar

1 teaspoon finely grated fresh lemon zest

3 tablespoons kosher salt

1-1/2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper

Place tomatoes in a large shallow dish. Stir together vodka, vinegar, sugar, and zest until sugar is dissolved, then pour over tomatoes, gently tossing to coat. Marinate, covered and chilled, at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour. Stir together salt and pepper and serve with tomatoes for dipping.