Calico Vegetable Relish
Calico Vegetable Relish offers a vibrant mix of vegetables in a tangy vinegar-based dressing, perfect as a side dish or party relish for those who enjoy fresh, bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup white vinegar ⓘ
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil ⓘ
- 1 cup sugar ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 16 oz. can French-style green beans, drained
- 12 oz. can whole kernel corn, drained ⓘ
- 16 oz. can small sweet peas, drained
- 1 cup celery, chopped ⓘ
- 1 bunch green onions, chopped ⓘ
- 2 oz. jar pimientos, drained and chopped ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine the vinegar, vegetable oil, sugar, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Meanwhile, combine the drained green beans, corn, peas, chopped celery, chopped green onions, and chopped pimientos in a large bowl.
- Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the vegetables in the bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of this Calico Vegetable Relish, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or some chopped bell peppers for extra crunch. If you're looking for a lighter version, swap the vegetable oil with an equal amount of olive oil. For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be a delightful addition.
Serving Suggestions
This Calico Vegetable Relish makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with The Best Spinach Salad Dressing for a refreshing meal. Serve it alongside crackers or as a topping on tacos for a unique twist. Enjoy the colorful mix as part of your summer spread or at potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The relish can last for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy its flavors over time. When serving leftovers, there's no need to reheat; it's delicious cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or barbecues.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calico Vegetable Relish contains roughly 128 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1029mg per serving (45% 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 fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh vegetables, use about 2 cups of blanched green beans, 1 cup of fresh corn, and 1 cup of fresh peas. Just ensure they are cooked to your desired tenderness before mixing them into the relish.
How long does the relish need to sit before serving?
For the best flavor, refrigerate the relish for at least 12 hours before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the relish?
Yes, you can modify the sugar to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet relish, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup or even 1/2 cup. You can also consider using a sugar substitute if you're looking for a healthier option.
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).