Name: Zucchini Relish Recipe for Canning
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 medium zucchinis, diced; 2 cups sweet onions, finely chopped; 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced; 1 cup white or apple cider vinegar; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp sea salt; 1 tbsp mustard seeds; 1 tbsp celery seeds; 1/4 tsp turmeric

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Zucchini relish might not be the culinary superstar of your pantry, but once you taste this homemade delight, you’ll wonder why it took you so long to discover its magic. Imagine a jar bursting with vibrant green hues, mingling together with spices that tickle your taste buds and a tangy sweetness that dances on your palate. broccoli salad with a twist tasty antipasto salad This Zucchini Relish Recipe for Canning is like summer in a jar, ready to elevate everything from turkey sandwiches to potato salads.

But let me tell you, zucchini relish isn’t just an ordinary condiment; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen. Picture yourself at a summer barbecue, where the aroma of grilled meat fills the air and the laughter of friends and family surrounds you. You reach for that jar of zucchini relish you’ve crafted with love and care, adding an unexpected twist to classic dishes. Spoiler alert: it’s going to be the star of the show.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This zucchini relish recipe makes use of those extra zucchinis sitting on your counter, turning them into something special.
The balanced flavor profile combines sweet and savory notes, making it perfect for any meal.
It adds beautiful color and texture to your dishes, making every bite a visual delight.
Ideal for canning, it allows you to preserve summer’s bounty while enjoying its flavors long after the season has passed.

Ingredients for Zucchini Relish Recipe for Canning

For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Zucchini: Use fresh, firm zucchinis for the best crunch and flavor; aim for about 6-8 medium-sized pieces.
Onions: Sweet onions work wonders in this recipe; they add depth without overpowering the dish.
Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers; they enhance both flavor and visual appeal.
Vinegar: White or apple cider vinegar provides the necessary acidity; choose based on your flavor preference.
Granulated Sugar: This balances out the tartness; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
Salt: Sea salt is recommended as it enhances all other flavors beautifully.
Spices (Mustard Seed, Celery Seed): These add complexity and warmth; don’t skip them!

For the Sauce:

Turmeric: Just a pinch will give your relish that gorgeous golden hue without overwhelming other flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Zucchini Relish Recipe for Canning

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by washing and slicing your zucchinis into small chunks. Dice your onions and bell peppers finely so they blend beautifully in the relish. A food processor can speed up this process if you have one handy.

Step 2: Mix It Up

In a large bowl, combine the chopped zucchini, onions, bell peppers, salt, and sugar. Let it sit for about an hour—this draws out moisture from the veggies and starts building flavor.

Step 3: Heat Things Up

Pour everything into a large pot over medium heat. Add vinegar along with mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and any other spices you fancy. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Reduce heat and let it simmer for around 20 minutes until all vegetables are tender yet still slightly crisp. The mixture will thicken as it cooks down—trust me; it smells amazing!

Step 5: Jar It Up

While your relish simmers away like a cozy campfire story being told on a summer evening, sterilize your jars in boiling water for about ten minutes. Then carefully ladle in your hot zucchini relish into each jar while leaving about half an inch of headspace.

Step 6: Seal and Store

Wipe down the rims of each jar with a clean cloth before sealing them with lids. Process them in a boiling water bath for about ten minutes to ensure they’re safely sealed for storage.

Transfer to plates or use as desired—the final touch is truly up to you! Enjoy this zucchini relish on burgers or simply with crackers as an impressive appetizer at gatherings!

And there you have it! Your very own Zucchini Relish Recipe for Canning is ready! As you pop open that first jar months later during winter’s chill, just remember: summer didn’t really leave after all—it’s right there waiting inside that delightful green goodness!

You Must Know

This delightful zucchini relish recipe for canning is more than just a way to preserve your summer garden bounty; it adds a zesty kick to any dish.
With its crunchy texture and tangy flavor, it’s the perfect condiment for burgers, sandwiches, and everything in between.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by washing and chopping those fresh zucchinis. Next, mix them with onions and peppers before adding vinegar and sugar. Simmer everything together until it thickens. Finally, can your relish in sterilized jars for maximum freshness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your zucchini relish recipe for canning by adding spices like dill or mustard seeds. You can also swap out zucchinis for cucumbers or other veggies you have on hand. Make it your own!

Storing & Reheating

Store your zucchini relish in cool, dark places once canned. If you need to reheat, simply bring it to a gentle simmer. It’s best enjoyed after it has rested for a few days to develop full flavors.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure your zucchini relish recipe for canning is perfect every time, remember these tips: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; avoid overcooking to retain crunch; sterilize jars properly to extend shelf life.

I still chuckle when I think about that one summer barbecue where I accidentally challenged my friend to a zucchini eating contest. Little did we know that my secret weapon was this very zucchini relish! Everyone loved it, asking for the recipe while we stuffed our faces with hot dogs piled high with my magical condiment.

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for the Zucchini Relish Recipe for Canning?

To prepare a delicious zucchini relish, you will need fresh zucchini, bell peppers, onions, vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, and spices such as turmeric and celery seeds. These ingredients come together to create a tangy and flavorful relish that pairs well with many dishes. Ensure you have canning jars and lids ready to store your relish after preparation. Using fresh vegetables is key to achieving the best flavor while canning.

How long does zucchini relish last when canned?

When properly canned, zucchini relish can last up to one year in a cool, dark place. After opening a jar, it’s best to refrigerate any unused relish and consume it within a few weeks for optimal freshness. Always check for signs of spoilage before using the canned product. If you notice any off smells or discoloration, discard it immediately to ensure food safety.

Can I use frozen zucchini for the Zucchini Relish Recipe for Canning?

While fresh zucchini is preferred for making relish due to its texture and flavor, you can use frozen zucchini if necessary. However, be aware that freezing may alter the texture slightly. If using frozen zucchini, ensure you thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to your relish mixture. This will help maintain the overall consistency of your final product.

What do I serve with my Zucchini Relish?

Zucchini relish is versatile and can enhance various dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping on burgers. Additionally, try serving it alongside cheese platters or as an accompaniment to crackers. guilt-free salad dressing Many enjoy it in potato salads or mixed into deviled eggs for added flavor. The tangy taste of the relish elevates ordinary meals effortlessly.

Conclusion for Zucchini Relish Recipe for Canning

In summary, this zucchini relish recipe for canning is an excellent way to preserve summer’s bounty while adding a burst of flavor to your meals. With simple ingredients like zucchini, peppers, and spices, you can create a delightful condiment that lasts up to a year when stored properly. Remember to use fresh produce and follow safe canning practices. Enjoy your homemade zucchini relish as an accompaniment to various dishes throughout the year!

Zucchini Relish Recipe for Canning: A Summer Delight