Summer squash—that vibrant, versatile vegetable—is the star of this show! Forget bland side dishes; this summer squash relish is bursting with flavor, perfect for adding a zing to any meal. Whether you're looking for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas, this homemade cooking gem delivers. It's the perfect addition to grilled meats, fish tacos, or simply enjoyed alongside crusty bread. Let's dive in and make this delicious dish together!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium yellow squash, diced
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, for added heat!)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
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Prep the veggies: Wash and dice all the vegetables to a similar size. Smaller pieces will cook faster and more evenly.
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the red onion and jalapeño (if using) and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened.
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Cook the squash: Add the diced yellow squash and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the squash begins to soften.
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Add the flavor: Stir in the red bell pepper, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and cumin. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Simmer to perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the relish has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Cool and enjoy: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the relish cool completely. The flavors will meld beautifully as it cools. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for the Best Summer Squash Relish:
- Don't overcook the squash: Overcooked squash will become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Adjust the spice: If you prefer a milder relish, omit the jalapeño or use less. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Get creative with add-ins: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like corn, carrots, or cherry tomatoes. A handful of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley would also be delicious.
Variations:
- Spicy Summer Squash Relish: Add a diced serrano pepper for extra heat.
- Sweet and Tangy Relish: Increase the sugar to 1/3 cup for a sweeter relish.
- Herby Summer Squash Relish: Add 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Fat: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
This recipe is a fantastic example of easy and healthy meals, perfect for those busy weeknights. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a delightful addition to your summer meals. This homemade cooking creation is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!