Zucchini Relish: A Summer Harvest Delight
Zucchini relish is a vibrant and tangy condiment that perfectly captures the essence of summer. This versatile relish can be enjoyed with everything from burgers and hot dogs to sandwiches and cheese platters. Making your own zucchini relish allows you to control the ingredients and sweetness, resulting in a unique and delicious treat that's perfect for canning and preserving those summer flavors.
Why Make Zucchini Relish?
- Fresh & Flavorful: Homemade zucchini relish offers a burst of fresh, summery flavor that's hard to beat.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, or use it as a condiment for grilled meats and fish.
- Preserving Summer: Canning zucchini relish allows you to savor summer's bounty long after the season has passed.
Zucchini Relish Recipes for Canning
Here are a few classic and delicious zucchini relish recipes for canning:
1. Classic Zucchini Relish
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds zucchini, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup salt
- 1 tablespoon mustard seed
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash, peel, and dice zucchini, onion, and bell pepper.
- Combine and Cook: In a large pot, combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until zucchini is tender.
- Jar and Process: Ladle hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal with lids. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
2. Spicy Zucchini Relish
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds zucchini, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup salt
- 1 tablespoon mustard seed
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
Follow the same instructions as the classic recipe, but add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Sweet and Spicy Zucchini Relish
Ingredients:
- 4 pounds zucchini, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup salt
- 1 tablespoon mustard seed
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
Follow the same instructions as the classic recipe, but use apple cider vinegar and add cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy flavor.
Tips for Canning Zucchini Relish
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh, high-quality zucchini for the best flavor.
- Sterilization is Key: Always sterilize jars and lids to ensure safe preservation.
- Follow Recipes Carefully: Adhere to the recommended processing times for safe canning.
- Storage: Store canned zucchini relish in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Enjoy Your Zucchini Relish!
Zucchini relish is a delicious and versatile condiment that's sure to become a family favorite. With its bright flavor and beautiful color, it's a perfect way to preserve the taste of summer.
