Overnight Zucchini Relish
A tangy, sweet zucchini relish with vibrant flavors of onions, peppers, and spices—perfect for adding zest to sandwiches, hot dogs, or as a condiment for summer meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground zucchini, chopped onions, and salt in a bowl; let stand overnight.
- Rinse with cold water and drain.
- Add vinegar, sugar, nutmeg, turmeric, dry mustard, celery seed, pepper, chopped green pepper, and ground red pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and reduce heat.
- Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Pour into sterilized hot jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, let the zucchini and onion mixture sit overnight to draw out moisture. You can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor. If you prefer a spicier relish, consider adding a few diced jalapeños. Ensure that your jars are properly sterilized to avoid spoilage and maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This relish pairs beautifully with sandwiches, burgers, and grilled meats, making it a versatile condiment. Try it alongside a platter of cheeses or as a topping for hot dogs. It also complements dishes like potato salad or coleslaw, adding a delightful crunch and tangy flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store the relish in a cool, dark place for up to a year if sealed properly. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. To serve chilled, take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving to bring it to room temperature, enhancing its flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Zucchini Relish contains roughly 488 calories, with 6g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (179% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 642mg per serving (28% 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 frozen zucchini for this recipe?
Using frozen zucchini is possible, but it may result in a more watery relish. Thaw and drain the zucchini thoroughly before proceeding with the recipe to avoid excess moisture that can affect the final consistency.
How do I adjust the sweetness of the relish?
If you prefer a less sweet relish, you can reduce the amount of sugar to your taste. Start by cutting it in half and taste-testing before cooking. You can also add a bit more vinegar to balance the flavors if you reduce the sugar.
Is it necessary to use both green and red peppers?
While both peppers add color and flavor, you can use just one type if that’s what you have on hand. Green peppers are slightly more bitter, while red peppers add sweetness. Choose according to your preference or availability.
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).