Garden Special
A vibrant, savory garden preserve blending ripe tomatoes, sweet peppers, onions, and celery, perfect for adding flavor to rice dishes or hearty soups.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer the peeled and quartered tomatoes, sliced sweet peppers, sliced onions, sliced celery, water, salt, and sugar in a large pot for 20 minutes.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Pour the hot mixture into sterilized hot jars.
- Seal the jars and process in a pressure canner at 5 pounds pressure for 15 minutes for preservation.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the mix while it simmers. If you prefer a spicier kick, substitute some of the sweet peppers with jalapeños. Ensure all jars are properly sterilized before filling to prevent spoilage. If you're short on time, using canned tomatoes can be a great alternative, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This Garden Special can be served as a hearty side dish or a main meal. Pair it with crusty bread or serve it over rice for a filling option. It also complements grilled meats beautifully, making it an excellent accompaniment to dishes like those featuring the Anti-Cancer Marinade For Meat. For an added twist, try it as a topping on baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. If you have leftovers after opening a jar, transfer any unused contents to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garden Special contains roughly 1199 calories, with 23g protein, 215g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (271% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (115% of the Daily Value), and potassium (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 experiment with other vegetables such as zucchini or green beans. Just ensure that the total amount remains similar to maintain the balance of flavors and textures. Remember that some vegetables may require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.
Can I freeze this dish instead of canning it?
Yes, you can freeze the Garden Special! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep well for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
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).