🥕 Mediterranean Carrot & Red Pepper Relish
Fresh, Tangy & Perfect for Preserving
📖 Description
This colorful carrot relish is a traditional Mediterranean-inspired vegetable mix made with grated carrots, sweet red peppers, garlic, herbs, olive oil, and light vinegar. It’s slightly tangy, mildly sweet, and deeply aromatic.
Often prepared in large batches and stored in jars, it’s perfect as:
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A side salad
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A sandwich or wrap filling
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A topping for grilled meats
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A mezze platter addition
It’s rich in antioxidants, naturally dairy-free, and full of bold Mediterranean flavor.
🛒 Ingredients (Makes about 4–5 jars)
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1 kg (2.2 lbs) carrots, grated
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3 red bell peppers, finely chopped
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2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped (optional but traditional)
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
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½ cup extra virgin olive oil
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½ cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
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1–2 tablespoons lemon juice
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
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1 tablespoon salt (adjust to taste)
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1–2 teaspoons honey (optional, balances acidity)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare Vegetables
Grate carrots and finely chop peppers and tomatoes.
Drain excess tomato liquid if very watery.
2️⃣ Lightly Cook (Optional but recommended for preserving)
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add carrots and peppers.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened but still vibrant.
Add garlic, paprika, salt, and chili flakes. Stir 1 minute.
3️⃣ Add Acidity
Pour in vinegar and lemon juice.
Simmer gently for 5 more minutes.
Turn off heat and stir in parsley and honey.
4️⃣ Jar It
Spoon hot mixture into sterilized glass jars.
Seal tightly.
For longer storage:
Place sealed jars in boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
🥗 Serving Ideas
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Spread inside warm pita bread
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Serve next to grilled chicken or fish
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Add to rice bowls
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Mix into couscous or quinoa
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Top avocado toast
🌿 Mediterranean Health Benefits
✔ High in beta-carotene (carrots)
✔ Rich in antioxidants
✔ Heart-healthy olive oil
✔ Naturally gluten-free & vegan
✔ Supports digestion
❓ Q & A
Q1: Can I skip cooking it?
Yes, for a fresh salad version. But cooking helps preserve it longer.
Q2: How long does it last?
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Refrigerated: 7–10 days
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Properly water-bath canned: up to 3 months
Q3: Can I add cabbage?
Absolutely! Shredded cabbage makes it more like a slaw-style relish.
Q4: Can I reduce the oil?
Yes, but oil helps preserve and enhances flavor.
Q5: Is it spicy?
Mild by default. Adjust chili flakes to your preference.
