Icebox Relish
A tangy, crunchy relish with fresh vegetables and bold spices, perfect for summer picnics or as a flavorful side for meats and sandwiches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut cabbages, onions, tomatoes, and green and red bell peppers finely.
- Add salt and mix well.
- Let sit for 30 minutes or longer, then squeeze dry with hands or in a bag.
- Add remaining ingredients including sugar, vinegar, turmeric, celery seed, mustard seed, hot peppers, and optional cocktail onions and cauliflower.
- Mix thoroughly and keep refrigerated.
- Keeps several weeks.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Icebox Relish, consider adding diced cucumbers or zucchini for extra crunch. If you prefer a sweeter relish, increase the sugar to your taste. For a spicier kick, add more hot peppers or use jalapeños instead. Make sure to finely chop all vegetables for a consistent texture. This relish is versatile and can be used as a condiment for sandwiches or burgers.
Serving Suggestions
Icebox Relish is a delightful addition to any picnic spread or barbecue. Serve it alongside grilled meats, like burgers or hot dogs, for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Lucille'S French Dressing on a crisp salad. Alternatively, try using it as a topping for tacos or as a zesty side for sandwiches. It's a versatile condiment that can enhance many dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Icebox Relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for several weeks, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully over time. If you're planning to use it later, ensure it’s sealed tightly to prevent air exposure. There’s no need to reheat; it’s best served cold right from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Icebox Relish contains roughly 515 calories, with 17g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (119% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (113% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1165mg per serving (51% 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 other vegetables in this relish?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as carrots, radishes, or even diced celery. Just remember to adjust the salt and sugar levels accordingly if you add ingredients that have different moisture content.
How long does this relish last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, Icebox Relish can last for up to three weeks. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even tastier as it sits. Just check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Icebox Relish is completely vegan! All the ingredients used are plant-based, making it a great addition to vegan recipes. Enjoy it guilt-free as a zesty topping or condiment in various dishes.
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).