Summer produce is amazing, but it disappears so fast! I sometimes end up with a kitchen full of cucumbers and peppers that need using up before they go bad.

This recipe for pickled peppers and cucumbers is the perfect way to transform your leftover summer veggies into a flavor explosion. They're perfect for a tangy snack, or you can jar them up and give them as gifts – way better than another bag of bath salts, am I right?

Sweet and Spicy Pickle Relish Recipe

Prep time: 20 min

Cook time: 45 min

Serving: 5 pint jars

What you’ll need:

• 3 cups green pepper, grated
• 3 cups pickling cucumber, grated
• 1 cup onion, minced or grated
• 2 cups apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp mustard seed
• ½ tsp celery seed
• 1 tsp red chili flakes

Instructions:

• Add onion, cucumber, and green pepper to the pot. Add 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and simmer for 30 minutes. Drain the vegetables and discard the liquid. Add the vegetables back to the pot.
• Add remaining vinegar, spices, and sugar and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat.
• Fill the jars, wipe the rims, and apply lids and rings.
• Process the jars into the water bath canner for 10 minutes.
• Remove the jars from the pot.
• When done, store it in a cool place for up to 1 year.

Nutrition:

Calories 707, Protein 11g, Carbohydrate 104g, Fat 26g, Sugar 1g

Serving suggestions:

• Level up your classic burgers and hot dogs with a punch of flavor.
• Add a tangy twist to your favorite sandwiches like grilled cheese or BLTs (bacon, lettuce, tomato).
• Charcuterie board anyone? These pickles pair perfectly with cured meats and cheeses.
• Enjoy pickles alongside grilled meats or fish for a refreshing and flavorful side dish.
• Chop them up and add them to your next potato salad or coleslaw for a flavor explosion!

Pickling Tips:

• For crispier pickles, use a grater with large holes for the vegetables. Alternatively, you can thinly slice the vegetables instead of grating them for a different texture.
• Use sterilized jars for safe storage. Here's a quick guide: Wash jars in hot soapy water, rinse well, and then place them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Remove carefully with tongs and let dry completely before filling.
• Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth before sealing to ensure a proper air-tight fit.
• Want more heat? Here are some flavor boosters you can add to the jar alongside the grated vegetables:
  • Fresh dill sprigs
  • Garlic cloves
  • Black peppercorns
  • Whole cloves

So next time your summer veggies are overflowing, whip up this easy and delicious pickle relish!