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zucchini relish recipes - Close-up of a jar of homemade sweet and tangy zucchini relish with fresh zucchini and spices in the background.

Classic Sweet and Tangy Zucchini Relish

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A delightful homemade zucchini relish recipe that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Ideal for preserving summer's bounty and a versatile condiment for everything from hot dogs to cheese boards. This is one of those zucchini relish recipes you'll make again and again!

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 4 (pint) jars 1x

Ingredients

Scale

10 cups grated zucchini (about 4 medium zucchinis)
3 medium onions, finely diced
2 red bell peppers, finely diced
2 green bell peppers, finely diced
3 tablespoons salt
4 cups apple cider vinegar
4 cups granulated sugar
2 tablespoons mustard seeds
1 tablespoon celery seeds
1 teaspoon ground turmeric

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, diced onions, and diced bell peppers. Sprinkle with salt and toss well. Let sit for 2-3 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator) to draw out excess moisture.
Step 2: After resting, transfer the vegetable mixture to a colander and press firmly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. You can also use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to wring out the moisture. This step is crucial for preventing watery relish.
Step 3: In a large, non-reactive pot (like stainless steel), combine the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Step 4: Add the drained vegetable mixture to the simmering brine. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture back to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 5: Cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp and the relish has thickened to your desired consistency. The liquid should reduce significantly, and the relish should appear glossy.
Step 6: Ladle the hot relish into clean, sterilized pint or half-pint canning jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Remove any air bubbles. Wipe jar rims clean with a damp cloth, center lids, and apply bands finger-tight.
Step 7: Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes (adjusting for altitude if necessary). Carefully remove jars and let cool undisturbed on a towel for 12-24 hours. Check seals; lids should be concave and not flex. Store properly sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate unsealed jars and consume within a few weeks. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2-3 weeks.

Notes

For best results, allow the relish to mellow in the refrigerator for at least 24-48 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to fully meld and deepen. If you prefer a finer texture, you can use a food processor to chop the vegetables, but be careful not to over-process them into a paste. Always sterilize your jars and lids properly for safe canning.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tbsp (30g)
  • Calories: 55 kcal
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 0.2 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0.1 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 0.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
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