Zucchini Relish(Recipe Originated In Florida)
A vibrant, tangy zucchini relish with sweet peppers and spices, perfect as a condiment or side dish, ideal for summer BBQs and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the chopped zucchini, chopped onion, and salt in a large bowl and let stand overnight.
- The next day, rinse the mixture thoroughly, drain well, and add remaining ingredients: cornstarch, celery seed, chopped red pepper, chopped green pepper, sugar, vinegar, turmeric, and pepper.
- Mix everything well and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Pour the hot relish into clean, sterilized jars while still hot and seal immediately.
- Note: You may not need to use all of the juice; adjust accordingly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker relish, you can increase the cornstarch slightly or reduce the amount of liquid by simmering longer. If you're out of celery seed, you can substitute with dill seed for a different flavor profile. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. This recipe is great for preserving excess zucchini from your garden.
Serving Suggestions
Zucchini relish is fantastic as a condiment on burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with baked ham glaze, adding a sweet and tangy contrast. For a refreshing side, serve it alongside a light salad or as a topping for grilled meats. You can also enjoy it with crackers and cheese for a delightful appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store the relish in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate the jars and consume within a month. To serve chilled, simply take out the desired amount and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This relish is perfect for summer barbecues.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Relish(Recipe Originated In Florida) contains roughly 1864 calories, with 11g protein, 427g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (193% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1102mg per serving (48% 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?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen zucchini if it's thawed and well-drained. Keep in mind that the texture may be softer, which could affect the final relish consistency.
How long does the relish need to be processed in jars?
After simmering, pour the hot relish into sterilized jars and seal them immediately. For long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes. This ensures a proper seal and extends shelf life.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet relish. Start by cutting the sugar by a quarter and taste the mixture before cooking. Remember, the sugar helps balance the acidity of the vinegar, so adjust to your preference.
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).