Mexican Spicy Vegetable Relish
A vibrant Mexican spicy vegetable relish featuring carrots, jalapenos, and onions in a tangy vinegar sauce, perfect for adding zest to meals or serving as a condiment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel carrots and slice diagonally into 1/2-inch chunks.
- Place carrots in a large bowl and cover with boiling water.
- Let stand for 30 minutes, then drain and pour ice water over them to stop further cooking.
- Slice jalapeno peppers and combine with onion rings and carrots.
- Blend vegetable oil, vinegar, and salt to make the dressing.
- Add the dressing to the vegetables and mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one day, preferably several days.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced habanero peppers or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing. If you're short on time, pre-cut carrots can be used, but fresh ones provide better texture. Additionally, substituting coconut oil for vegetable oil can add a unique flavor twist. This relish also works well as a topping for tacos or alongside other Mexican recipes like Mom'S Mexican Rice.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican Spicy Vegetable Relish makes a vibrant accompaniment to grilled meats or fish. Serve it as a zesty topping for tacos or burritos, or alongside a refreshing salad like South Of The Border Slaw. For an appetizer, pair it with tortilla chips or serve it on a platter with other dips like Quick Chile Salsa.
Storage & Reheating
Store the relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It can last for up to two weeks. If you find the flavors have intensified too much after a few days, simply mix in some fresh diced vegetables to lighten it up before serving. The relish does not need to be reheated; it’s best enjoyed cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Spicy Vegetable Relish contains roughly 963 calories, with 15g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (149% of the Daily Value), and potassium (94% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1605mg per serving (70% 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 make this relish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this relish tastes even better after sitting for a few days, as the flavors meld together beautifully. Preparing it a day or two in advance is recommended for optimal taste.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this relish is entirely plant-based and fits well within vegan recipes. All ingredients used are derived from plants, making it a great option for those following a vegan diet.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover relish can be used as a zesty topping for sandwiches or as a flavorful addition to grain bowls. It's also perfect for brightening up salads or served with grilled veggies. Just keep it refrigerated and consume within two weeks.
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).