Lemon Relish
A bright and tangy lemon relish with sage, perfect for complementing poultry or pork dishes, offering a sweet, tart, and herbal flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim rind from two lemons and cut into fine strips.
- Cover the lemon strips with boiling water in a small bowl.
- Drain and reserve the lemon water.
- Cut the peel and white membrane from all lemons and slice into thin pieces, removing all seeds.
- Place the lemon slices in a glass bowl.
- In a small saucepan, mix the sage, sugar, and one cup of reserved lemon water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 4 minutes or until thick.
- Add the reserved lemon strips to the pan and pour the sauce over the lemon slices.
- Cover and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more complex flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. If you don't have sage, thyme can be a good substitute. Ensure you use thin-skinned lemons for the best results, as the rind will be more tender and flavorful. When slicing the lemons, be sure to remove all seeds to avoid bitterness in the relish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon relish as a tangy topping for grilled fish or chicken, or pair it with toasted bread and cream cheese for a delightful appetizer. It also works well as a condiment for Glazed Carrots And Parsnips, adding a zesty kick. For dessert, try it alongside fresh fruit or as a drizzle over ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemon relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to two weeks. If you notice the flavors fading, a quick stir with a spoon can help revive the zestiness. Avoid reheating, as this dish is best served chilled to enhance its refreshing taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemon Relish contains roughly 119 calories, with 2g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
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 bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?
While bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, it lacks the fresh flavor and zest of real lemons. Fresh lemons provide essential oils from the zest and a vibrant taste that enhances the relish. For the best results, stick with fresh lemons.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the relish?
If you prefer a less sweet relish, start with 1 cup of sugar instead of 1 1/2 cups, then taste and adjust as needed. Remember, the natural tartness of the lemons will balance the sweetness, so feel free to experiment until you find your perfect balance.
Is this relish suitable for canning?
This lemon relish is not tested for canning, as it may not have the proper acidity levels for safe preservation. It is best enjoyed fresh and refrigerated. If you want a shelf-stable option, consider looking for a tested canning recipe specifically designed for lemon preserves.
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).