Garden Hash
A refreshing vegetable salad with crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and crunchy celery, balanced with a sweet and tangy vinegar dressing, perfect for light summer meals or sides.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice all vegetables into small pieces.
- Place the diced vegetables in a large bowl and cover with 1 cup of sugar.
- Let the mixture stand for 15 minutes to allow the sugar to draw out moisture.
- Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar and toss lightly to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of celery seed, mixing well before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier texture, consider using fresh herbs like parsley or dill. If you don't have celery, chopped cucumber can be a good substitute. Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference; you can reduce it or use a natural sweetener like agave syrup. This Garden Hash can also be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you're looking for a heartier dish, serve it alongside Mock Salmon Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Garden Hash chilled or at room temperature as a vibrant side dish to grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Cabbage Lemon Salad for a refreshing meal. For a lighter option, enjoy it as a topping for whole grain crackers or as a filling in wraps. It also makes a great picnic dish, adding color and nutrition to your spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the vegetables' texture. Alternatively, enjoy it cold as a refreshing side dish. If you like, add a splash of vinegar before serving to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garden Hash contains roughly 158 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 715mg per serving (31% 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 different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any firm vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or bell peppers. Just make sure to keep the texture similar to ensure the dish holds up well. Experimenting with seasonal vegetables can also add unique flavors and colors to your Garden Hash.
How long can I let the vegetables sit with sugar?
Letting the vegetables sit with sugar for about 15 minutes is ideal for drawing out moisture. However, you can extend this time up to an hour if you prefer a more concentrated flavor. Just be cautious that the vegetables don’t release too much liquid, as this could make the dish watery.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this Garden Hash is entirely vegan, making it a perfect addition to any plant-based meal. The combination of fresh vegetables and vinegar provides a flavorful and satisfying option for those following a vegan diet. It's great for gatherings or as a side dish for American recipes.
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).