Fruit Jar Tomato Relish
A vibrant, tangy tomato relish with fresh vegetables and herbs, perfect for summer gatherings or as a colorful condiment to enhance grilled dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped tomatoes, cucumber, green pepper, and onion in layers in a quart jar to create colorful stripes.
- Pour the rest of the ingredients—olive or salad oil, wine vinegar, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper—over the layered vegetables.
- Cover and chill for 4 to 5 hours to marinate.
- Turn over the jar to redistribute the marinade, then chill for an additional 4 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, try adding diced bell peppers or substituting the cucumber with zucchini for a different texture. If you like a bit of sweetness, consider adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also enhance the flavor. Ensure the vegetables are finely chopped for better marination and flavor absorption.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato Relish is a vibrant topping for grilled meats or fish and pairs beautifully with Mango Broccoli Salad. Serve it alongside crusty bread or as a condiment for sandwiches. It also makes a great addition to a charcuterie board. Consider enjoying it with your favorite crackers or as a side to a light summer meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. To refresh the relish before serving, give it a quick stir and add a splash of vinegar if it appears too dry. Avoid freezing as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Jar Tomato Relish contains roughly 180 calories, with 7g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 738mg per serving (32% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. However, fresh tomatoes provide a better texture and flavor. If using canned, drain them well to avoid excess liquid in your relish. The taste may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How long can I marinate the vegetables?
You can marinate the vegetables for up to 8 hours, but be careful not to exceed this time as the vegetables may become too soft. Four to five hours is usually sufficient for optimal flavor without compromising texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This Tomato Relish is entirely plant-based, making it a perfect addition to vegan recipes. The ingredients are simple and wholesome, allowing for flexibility in seasoning while keeping it vegan-friendly.
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).