Aunt Wilma'S Zucchini Squash Relish
A tangy, sweet, and savory zucchini relish with vibrant peppers and mustard seeds, perfect for adding zest to sandwiches, hot dogs, or as a flavorful condiment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground zucchini, onion, green pepper, and red pepper in a large bowl.
- Add salt and let stand for 1 hour.
- Drain the mixture thoroughly.
- Combine vinegar, sugar, pepper, mustard seed, and turmeric in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the drained squash mixture to the boiling liquid.
- Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the hot relish into sterilized jars.
- Seal the jars and cold pack for about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of turmeric to the boiling liquid for a vibrant color and taste. If you don't have mustard seed, ground mustard can be a good substitute. Ensure the zucchini is well-drained to prevent the relish from becoming too watery, which can affect the texture. This relish can be adjusted with more or less sugar based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Wilma's Zucchini Squash Relish is perfect as a condiment for sandwiches or as a topping for grilled meats, making it a great addition to barbecues. It also pairs beautifully with Sweet Cherry Salad for a refreshing contrast. Serve it alongside cheese platters or on crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate the relish and use it within a month. To reheat, simply scoop out the desired amount and warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of vinegar if you want to refresh the flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Wilma'S Zucchini Squash Relish contains roughly 681 calories, with 16g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (155% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (115% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 973mg per serving (42% 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 yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes, yellow squash works well as a substitute for zucchini in this relish. It will provide a different flavor profile but will still yield a delicious result. Just be sure to grate it finely, similar to the zucchini, for the best texture.
How long does this relish need to sit before serving?
For the best flavor, it's ideal to let the relish sit for at least 24 hours before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making it even more delicious when paired with your favorite dishes.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste, but be mindful that it may affect the overall preservation of the relish. If reducing sugar, consider adding a bit of honey or another sweetener to maintain the balance of flavors.
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).