Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe

Grandma’s Tasty Zucchini Relish Recipe

Ingredients

Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe, Crafting Grandma’s Tasty Zucchini Relish requires fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend perfectly to create a sweet and tangy flavor. Below is a breakdown of the essential ingredients used in this classic homemade relish.

Main Ingredients (Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe)

The foundation of this relish starts with these fresh vegetables and seasonings:

• Zucchini (5 cups, finely chopped) – Adds texture and absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Onions (2 cups, finely chopped) – Enhances the relish with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
• Green and Red Bell Peppers (2 cups, finely chopped) – Adds vibrant color and a mild sweetness.
• Salt (¼ cup) – Helps extract moisture and enhances the overall flavor.
• White Vinegar (2 ½ cups) – Balances sweetness and preserves the relish.
• Sugar (2 cups) – Complements the vinegar’s acidity.
• Celery Seed (1 teaspoon) – Adds an earthy, slightly bitter flavor.
• Mustard Seed (1 teaspoon) – Provides a tangy, sharp taste.
• Turmeric (½ teaspoon) – Adds a deep golden color.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds a mild spicy kick.

Optional Sauce Ingredients

• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) – For a thicker consistency.
• Honey or Maple Syrup (¼ cup) – A natural sweetener alternative.
• Apple Cider Vinegar (1 cup) – For a fruitier tang.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon) – Adds heat.

Directions (Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe)

Creating Grandma’s Tasty Zucchini Relish is a simple process, but following the right steps ensures the best flavor and texture.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and dry all vegetables.
2. Finely chop the zucchini, onions, and bell peppers.
3. Place chopped vegetables in a bowl and sprinkle ¼ cup salt over them.
4. Let sit for 2 hours to draw out excess moisture.

Step 2: Drain and Rinse (Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe)

1. Drain the excess liquid using a fine mesh strainer.
2. Rinse thoroughly under cold water.
3. Squeeze out remaining moisture using a clean towel.

Step 3: Cook the Relish

1. In a large pot, combine drained vegetables with vinegar, sugar, and spices.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Fill the Jars (Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe)

1. Sterilize mason jars by boiling them for 10 minutes.
2. Use a ladle to fill each jar with hot relish, leaving ¼-inch headspace.
3. Wipe jar rims clean before sealing.

Step 5: Seal and Store

1. Secure lids and place jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
2. Remove jars, let them cool completely, and check seals before storing.

Tips for the Best Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

• Choose fresh, firm zucchini, onions, and peppers.
• Homegrown or organic produce enhances flavor.

Drain Excess Moisture

• After salting, rinse and squeeze the vegetables well to remove excess liquid.

Balance Sweetness and Acidity (Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe)

• Adjust sugar and vinegar amounts to taste.
• For tangier relish, add more vinegar; for a sweeter taste, increase sugar slightly.

Adjusting Spices

• For more heat: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
• For a smoky flavor: Include a pinch of smoked paprika.
• For a herby touch: Stir in fresh dill or parsley.

Storage Tips

• Properly canned relish lasts up to 1 year in a cool, dark place.
• Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2 months.

How to Can Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe

Step 1: Sterilize the Jars

1. Boil mason jars, lids, and rings for 10 minutes.
2. Remove with tongs and place on a clean towel to dry.

Step 2: Fill the Jars with Zucchini Relish

1. Use a ladle and funnel to pour hot relish into sterilized jars.
2. Tap jars to release air bubbles and wipe rims clean before sealing.

Step 3: Seal and Process the Jars (Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe)

1. Secure lids and submerge jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
2. Remove jars and place them on a towel-lined countertop to cool.

Step 4: Check the Seals and Store

1. Check that lids are sealed properly by pressing the center.
2. Store in a cool, dark pantry for up to 1 year.

Ways to Use Zucchini Relish

1. As a Topping – Use on burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches.
2. Mixed into Salads – Stir into potato or macaroni salad for extra flavor.
3. With Grilled Meats & Fish – Complements grilled chicken, pork, and seafood.
4. As a Dip or Spread – Mix with cream cheese or sour cream for a delicious dip.
5. In Deviled Eggs or Egg Salad – Adds a sweet and tangy kick.
6. Used in Tartar Sauce or Coleslaw – Mix with mayonnaise and lemon juice.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) (Grandma’s tasty zucchini relish recipe)

• Calories: 25 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fiber: 0.5g

Reviews & Tweaks

What People Are Saying About Grandma’s Tasty Zucchini Relish

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Absolutely Delicious and Easy to Make!” “This was my first time making zucchini relish, and it turned out perfect! Definitely making this again!” — Sarah M.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Better Than Store-Bought!” “I used to buy zucchini relish from the farmer’s market, but this homemade version is way better!” — Jake R.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A Great Way to Use Extra Zucchini” “We always have too many zucchinis from our garden, and this relish is the perfect way to use them up.” — Linda W.

Tweaks & Modifications

• Making It Spicier 🔥 – Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
• Reducing the Sugar – Cut sugar to 1 ½ cups or use honey.
• Using Apple Cider Vinegar – For a fruitier taste.
• Adding More Crunch – Stir in finely chopped celery or carrots.
• Experimenting with Herbs & Spices 🌿 – Try fresh dill or smoked paprika.

Enjoy making Grandma’s classic zucchini relish and share your tweaks with friends and family!