Darlene'S Zucchini Relish
Darlene's Zucchini Relish is a vibrant, tangy condiment that brings together the flavors of fresh zucchini, ripe tomatoes, and a medley of peppers. The addition of spices like nutmeg and turmeric enhances its unique taste. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a zesty addition to sandwiches, this relish will delight any palate.
Ingredients
- 10 c. zucchini squash ⓘ
- 4 c. onions ⓘ
- 2 red peppers ⓘ
- 2 green peppers ⓘ
- 5 Tbsp salt ⓘ
- 2 1/2 c. vinegar ⓘ
- 1 tsp. nutmeg ⓘ
- 1 tsp. cornstarch ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dry mustard ⓘ
- 1 tsp. turmeric
- 1/2 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 2 tsp. celery seed ⓘ
- 5 c. sugar ⓘ
- 1 qt. ripe tomatoes ⓘ
- 2 qt. green tomatoes ⓘ
- 3 large onions ⓘ
- 1 large cucumber ⓘ
- 1 qt. cabbage ⓘ
- 2 c. celery ⓘ
- 3 green peppers ⓘ
- 1 pod red hot pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Chop all vegetables before measuring ensuring you have 5 1/2-6 qts. total chopped veggies.
- Mix veggies with salt and let stand overnight.
- Drain.
- Add other ingredients and simmer until there is no excess liquid.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Darlene's Zucchini Relish, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. If you don’t have celery seed, dill seed can be a good substitute. For a thicker relish, increase the cornstarch slightly. Remember to chop the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Darlene's Zucchini Relish pairs beautifully with grilled meats and can be served as a condiment for sandwiches or hamburgers. It also complements dishes like Pepper Sauce or Aunt Lillian's Kraut Salad. For a refreshing side, consider serving it alongside Cucumber Salad or as a topping for Hearty Vegetable Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store the relish in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. If sealed properly in a water bath canner, it can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Darlene'S Zucchini Relish contains roughly 974 calories, with 18g protein, 174g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (296% of the Daily Value), iron (119% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1434mg per serving (62% 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 frozen zucchini for this relish?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen zucchini if needed. Thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture, as this can affect the final consistency of the relish.
Is this relish suitable for canning?
Yes, Darlene's Zucchini Relish can be canned. Make sure to follow proper canning procedures, including sterilizing jars and sealing them properly to ensure they are shelf-stable. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
How spicy is this relish?
The heat level of Darlene's Zucchini Relish can be adjusted by modifying the amount of red hot pepper. For a milder flavor, you can omit the hot pepper or use minimal amounts. Taste the mixture before canning to achieve your desired spice level.
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).