Pickled Squash Relish
Pickled Squash Relish offers a tangy, crunchy addition to your meals, featuring fresh squash, peppers, and onions preserved in a flavorful vinegar brine. Perfect for serving over beans and cornbread, it adds a bright, savory note to comfort foods and complements a variety of dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sliced squash, chopped peppers, sliced or chopped onions, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cover with ice and water; soak for 3 hours.
- Pour off the water and rinse the mixture.
- In a saucepan, mix together vinegar, mustard seed, sugar, and celery seed; heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the soaked squash mixture to the vinegar mixture; boil for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Seal the hot relish in sterilized jars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter relish, consider adding a bit of sugar to the vinegar mixture. If you prefer a spicier flavor, try incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Ensure the squash is sliced evenly for consistent pickling. Always use uniodized salt to prevent cloudiness in the brine. If you don’t have mustard seed, dill seeds make a great substitute.
Serving Suggestions
This pickled squash relish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or sandwiches, adding a tangy crunch. Try it on burgers or as a topping for hot dogs. It can also complement cheese platters or be served alongside rich dishes to balance flavors. For a unique twist, serve it with homemade tacos or as a condiment for your favorite vegan recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the relish in the refrigerator where it can last for several weeks. To serve leftovers, simply take the desired amount from the jar and enjoy cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating to maintain the crunchiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pickled Squash Relish contains roughly 474 calories, with 11g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (197% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1968mg per serving (86% 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 types of squash for this relish?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for standard squash, you can experiment with zucchini or yellow squash for different flavors and textures. Just ensure that the squash is firm and fresh for the best results.
How long does the pickling process take?
The initial soaking takes about 3 hours, but once you seal the jars, the relish will develop its full flavor over a week in the fridge. It can be enjoyed right away, but patience enhances the taste significantly.
Is it necessary to sterilize the jars before filling them?
Yes, sterilizing the jars is crucial to prevent contamination and ensure the longevity of your relish. You can do this by boiling the jars in water for 10 minutes or running them through a hot dishwasher cycle.
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).