Green Tomato Pepper Relish
A vibrant green tomato pepper relish bursting with tangy, spicy flavors, perfect for adding zest to meats, sandwiches, and cheese platters, suitable for summer gatherings and picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash, chop, and mix the vegetables.
- Peel the onions.
- Discard the seeds from the green and red peppers.
- Add salt to the vegetables; let stand for several hours or overnight.
- Drain the liquid from the mixture and discard it.
- Tie the pickling spices in a spice bag.
- Combine all ingredients including the vegetables, spices, vinegar, water, and sugar; simmer for 30 minutes.
- Ladle the boiling mixture into hot jars, seal immediately, and process in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Green Tomato Pepper Relish, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. If you prefer a sweeter relish, you can substitute half of the sugar with honey or agave syrup. Ensure that the vegetables are chopped uniformly for even cooking, and try using heirloom varieties for a unique taste. This relish is great as a topping for grilled meats or as a condiment with sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
This relish pairs beautifully with Cornish Game Hens With Orange Marmalade, adding a zesty contrast to the rich flavors. Serve it as a side with grilled meats, or use it as a topping on burgers and sandwiches. It can also be a delightful addition to a cheese platter, complementing sharp cheeses and crackers. For a fresh twist, try it alongside a crisp Orange Bright Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of Green Tomato Pepper Relish in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and consume within 4-6 weeks. For reheating, simply spoon out the desired amount and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain an even temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Green Tomato Pepper Relish contains roughly 227 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (125% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 736mg 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 ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
Using ripe tomatoes will change the flavor and texture of the relish significantly. Green tomatoes provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the sugar. If you decide to use ripe tomatoes, reduce the sugar and adjust the vinegar to maintain the desired tangy flavor.
How long does this relish keep once opened?
Once opened, Green Tomato Pepper Relish can be refrigerated and should be consumed within 4-6 weeks for the best flavor and freshness. Make sure to use a clean utensil each time to avoid contamination and spoilage.
Can I make this relish without added sugar?
Yes, you can reduce or eliminate the sugar if you prefer a low-sugar version. Keep in mind that sugar helps to balance the acidity of the vinegar and the tartness of the tomatoes. You might want to experiment with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit as alternatives.
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).