How To Make Yellow Squash Relish

How to Make Yellow Squash Relish

To make yellow squash relish, you’ll need fresh yellow squash, onions, bell peppers, vinegar, sugar, and a few simple spices.
 
This tangy, sweet condiment is a Southern classic that’s perfect for topping hot dogs, burgers, or beans.
 
If you’ve never made yellow squash relish before, don’t worry because the process is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
 
The best part about making yellow squash relish is that it’s a fantastic way to use up an abundant summer squash harvest.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through how to make yellow squash relish step by step, including the ingredients you need and the canning process.
 
Let’s get started so you can enjoy homemade yellow squash relish all year long.
 

Ingredients for Yellow Squash Relish

Before you learn how to make yellow squash relish, you need to gather the right ingredients.
 
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare a delicious batch of yellow squash relish:
 

1. Fresh Yellow Squash

The star of any yellow squash relish recipe is, of course, the yellow squash itself.
 
You’ll need about 10 to 12 medium yellow squash, which equals roughly 8 cups once chopped.
 
Choose firm, blemish-free squash for the best results when making yellow squash relish.
 
Small to medium squash work better than large ones because they have fewer seeds and firmer flesh.
 
If you grow your own squash, this yellow squash relish recipe is a perfect way to use them up.
 

2. Onions and Bell Peppers

Onions and bell peppers give yellow squash relish its signature flavor and crunch.
 
You’ll want about 4 large onions and 2 to 3 bell peppers, preferably a mix of red and green for color.
 
These aromatics balance the mildness of the squash and add depth to your yellow squash relish.
 
Chop them finely so every spoonful of yellow squash relish has a consistent texture.
 

3. Vinegar, Sugar, and Spices

The brine is what transforms fresh vegetables into tangy yellow squash relish.
 
You’ll need 2 cups of white vinegar and 3 cups of granulated sugar for the perfect sweet-and-sour balance.
 
Add 1 tablespoon of mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon of celery seeds, and 1 teaspoon of turmeric.
 
These spices give yellow squash relish its classic yellow color and distinctive flavor.
 
Some people also add a little salt and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
 

How to Make Yellow Squash Relish Step by Step

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s go through how to make yellow squash relish.
 

1. Chop and Salt the Vegetables

Start by chopping your yellow squash, onions, and bell peppers into small, uniform pieces.
 
Place them in a large bowl and sprinkle with about 1/4 cup of salt.
 
Let the mixture sit for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
 
This step draws out excess water, which keeps your yellow squash relish from getting mushy.
 
After soaking, drain and rinse the vegetables thoroughly to remove the excess salt.
 

2. Prepare the Brine

In a large pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric.
 
Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
 
This brine is the heart of your yellow squash relish, so taste it and adjust as needed.
 
Once the brine is ready, add the drained vegetables and return to a boil.
 
Simmer the yellow squash relish for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
 

3. Pack and Process the Jars

Ladle your hot yellow squash relish into sterilized pint or half-pint jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace.
 
Wipe the rims, place the lids on, and screw the bands until fingertip-tight.
 
Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes to ensure they seal properly.
 
Once processed, remove the jars and let them cool undisturbed for 24 hours.
 
You’ll know your yellow squash relish is sealed when you hear that satisfying pop.
 

Tips for the Best Yellow Squash Relish

Making yellow squash relish is easy, but a few tips can take it from good to great.
 
First, don’t skip the salting step because it’s what keeps your yellow squash relish crisp.
 
Second, use fresh, firm vegetables for the best texture and flavor in your yellow squash relish.
 
Third, feel free to tweak the sugar and spice levels to suit your taste.
 
And finally, let your yellow squash relish sit for a week or two before opening a jar so the flavors can meld.
 

So, How Do You Make Yellow Squash Relish?

You make yellow squash relish by chopping fresh yellow squash, onions, and peppers, salting them, and simmering them in a sweet vinegar brine before canning.
 
It’s a simple process that turns humble summer squash into a tangy, versatile condiment you’ll reach for again and again.
 
Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a first-timer, this yellow squash relish recipe is worth trying.
 
Hope this post has helped you learn how to make yellow squash relish so you can enjoy this Southern favorite at home.