Squash Relish

How to can yellow squash and make a delicious relish.

Click here and watch Judy as she makes this Squash Relish step-by-step. 

Squash relish is a delightful concoction that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Made from a medley of fresh squash, onions, peppers, and a blend of savory spices, this relish is a symphony of sweet and tangy goodness. Whether you’re slathering it on a hot dog, spooning it over grilled chicken, or mixing it into your favorite salad, squash relish brings a zesty and versatile twist to your culinary creations. It’s not just a condiment; it’s a flavor-packed companion that elevates the dining experience.

Have you ever tried making your own squash relish? This is how we make it our house. It takes a little time, but it’s easy and oh-so-good. And you’ll be making several jars at one time to stock your pantry or have on hand for gift giving. Let us know what you think. 

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 cups shredded or finely chopped yellow squash
• 2 cups chopped or shredded yellow onions
• 1 cup chopped red pepper
• 1 cup chopped green pepper • 6 T. pickling salt
• 4 cups sugar
• 3 cups apple cider vinegar (5% acidity)
• 1 t. dry mustard
• 1 t. celery seed 1 t. ground turmeric
• ½ t. ground nutmeg
• ½ t ground pepper

DIRECTIONS

Day 1:

1. Wash and chop or shred your squash, onions, red pepper, and green pepper.
2. Combine in a large bowl.
3. Add the pickling salt and mix with the vegetables.
4. Cover and put overnight in the refrigerator. 

Day 2:

1. Take out the squash mixture. Drain it, rinse it, and drain again.
2. While that is draining, put the sugar, vinegar, mustard, celery seed, turmeric, nutmeg, and pepper in a large pot. Bring this brine (or sauce) to a boil.
3. Once it is boiling, add the drained squash mixture to the brine.
4. Bring the mixture back to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, prepare your equipment to water bath the relish.
6. When relish is done, put it in pint jars that have been sterilized.
   1. Fill the jar to within ½ “ headspace.
   2. Clean the rim of the jar, then add a sterilized lid and ring.
7. Place in water bath canner.
8. When all jars are in the water bath canner, bring water to a full boil, then start timing the canning process. You need to process the relish for 15 minutes.
9. Turn off the heat and let stand for 5 more minutes.
10. Carefully remove jars to a safe place.
11. Let them cool for 24 hours and check that they have sealed.
12. Label and store your jars in a cool dark place.