Corn, orange and tomato relish

Corn, Orange, and Tomato Relish Recipe - Vegetarian Mexican Cuisine

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 minute | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

This refreshing and colorful Corn, Orange, and Tomato Relish is the perfect side dish for any summer meal. The combination of sweet corn, juicy oranges, and tangy tomatoes creates a burst of flavors that will delight your taste buds.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional relish recipes that have been passed down through generations. The use of fresh, seasonal ingredients like corn, oranges, and tomatoes gives this relish a vibrant and fresh flavor that is perfect for summer.

Ingredients

1 cup of fresh corn kernels
1 large onion
0.75 cup of diced tomatoes
0.25 cup of diced red bell pepper
1 tbsp of fresh chopped cilantro
1 small jalapeño pepper, finely minced
1 tbsp of seasoned rice vinegar
1 tbsp of fresh lime juice
Freshly ground black pepper
salt

How to prepare

1. Bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add the corn.
3. Allow the water to return to a boil and blanch the corn for 1 minute, or just until tender.
4. Drain and refresh under cold running water.
5. Drain well and set aside.
6. Peel the orange, including the white pith and the membrane between segments.
7. Cut each segment into quarters.
8. In a large bowl, combine the corn, orange pieces, tomato, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño.
9. Pour the vinegar and lime juice over the vegetables and toss well.
10. Season to taste with pepper and salt.
11. Serve at room temperature.

Variations

Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
Mix in some black beans or chickpeas for added protein.
Sprinkle with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to blanch the corn for just 1 minute to ensure it stays crisp and tender.

- Use a sharp knife to peel the orange and remove the white pith for the best texture.

- Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper to suit your spice preference.

- For a sweeter relish, you can add a touch of honey or agave nectar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this relish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a light and refreshing meal. It also makes a great topping for tacos, salads, or grilled vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Blanching the corn helps to lock in its natural sweetness and crisp texture, while also preserving its vibrant color. Be sure not to overcook the corn to maintain its crunch.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find fresh corn, you can use frozen corn kernels instead. You can also substitute grapefruit or mandarin oranges for the orange segments.

Make Ahead Tips

This relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this relish in a colorful bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro leaves for a beautiful presentation. You can also sprinkle some extra lime zest on top for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This relish pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or tofu. It also goes great with rice dishes, quinoa salads, or grilled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply let it come to room temperature or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

100

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 22g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 1g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 45% DV

- Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Iron: 4% DV

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

Summary

This Corn, Orange, and Tomato Relish is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich side dish that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is a great addition to any meal for a burst of flavor and color.

Summary

This Corn, Orange, and Tomato Relish is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that is perfect for summer. With its fresh ingredients and burst of colors, it is sure to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of this delicious relish!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for corn, orange, and tomato relish. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, and I remember being captivated by the vibrant colors and fresh aromas of this unique relish.

My grandmother had acquired the recipe from a dear friend who had traveled to the southern regions of the country and brought back a collection of exotic dishes and flavors. She had passed it on to me, knowing my love for trying new recipes and creating delicious meals for my family.

The first time I made the corn, orange, and tomato relish, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. I carefully gathered all the ingredients - fresh corn kernels, ripe tomatoes, juicy oranges, red onions, cilantro, and a hint of jalapeno for a bit of heat. As I chopped and diced, the kitchen filled with the wonderful scents of citrus and herbs, and I knew this dish would be something special.

I sautéed the corn until it was golden and caramelized, then added in the diced tomatoes and oranges, letting them simmer and meld together to create a sweet and savory base for the relish. The red onions added a punch of flavor, while the cilantro brought a fresh and herbaceous note to the dish. A dash of jalapeno added just the right amount of heat, balancing out the sweetness of the fruit and vegetables.

As I tasted the finished relish, I was blown away by the complexity of flavors and the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew it would become a staple in my own repertoire of recipes.

Over the years, I have continued to make the corn, orange, and tomato relish for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time, it never fails to impress and delight those who try it, with its vibrant colors and bold flavors. My children and grandchildren have grown to love this dish, just as I did when I first discovered it all those years ago.

As I look back on that fateful day when I first learned to make the corn, orange, and tomato relish, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful friends and family who have shared their recipes and culinary knowledge with me. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express my creativity and love for those around me. And this unique and flavorful relish will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious and memorable for those you care about.