Summer's bounty is overflowing, and what better way to celebrate than with a vibrant, flavorful zucchini relish? This small batch recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade relish without making a giant quantity. It's an easy recipe, ideal for quick dinner ideas or as a delightful addition to your favorite dishes. This recipe provides healthy meals, packed with fresh flavors, and is a fantastic example of simple homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini, finely diced
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced (optional, for extra color and sweetness)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or to taste, adjust for desired sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Finely dice the zucchini, yellow onion, and red bell pepper (if using). Smaller pieces will cook more evenly and create a better texture in the finished relish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the yellow mustard seeds and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the diced onion and red bell pepper (if using) and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until softened slightly.
Step 3: Cook the Zucchini
Add the diced zucchini to the pan and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini is tender-crisp. Don't overcook, as you want to retain some texture.
Step 4: Add the Seasoning and Vinegar
Stir in the apple cider vinegar, sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the relish has thickened slightly and the zucchini is tender.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the relish cool completely. Once cooled, you can transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Sweet and tangy: Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference. Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for a richer flavor.
- Herby relish: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro can be added during the last few minutes of cooking for a burst of freshness.
- Other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, corn, or bell peppers.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 50-60
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-12g
- Protein: Approximately 1g
- Fat: Approximately 2-3g
This small batch zucchini relish is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of summer. It's a versatile addition to sandwiches, burgers, tacos, or enjoyed as a simple side dish. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one is no exception. Enjoy!