Lime Relish

Tangy Lime Relish Recipe with Bell Pepper and Celery

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Lime relish is a zesty and flavorful condiment that adds a burst of citrusy freshness to a variety of dishes. This recipe combines the tangy taste of fresh limes with the crunch of green bell pepper, celery, and green onions, creating a versatile relish that can be used in sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for grilled meats or seafood.

History

Lime relish has its origins in Caribbean and Latin American cuisine, where the use of fresh citrus fruits in savory dishes is common. The combination of lime, green bell pepper, and other fresh ingredients creates a vibrant and refreshing relish that is perfect for adding a pop of flavor to any meal.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) fresh limes
0.5 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
6 green onions
1 cup chopped celery
3 tbsp chopped parsley
0.5 tsp dry mustard
0.25 tsp ground cardamom
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt

How to prepare

Zest all the limes and collect the zest in a large bowl.
Peel the limes, ensuring to remove all the white pith carefully.
Add the lime to the zest.
Add the green onion, bell pepper, and parsley to the lime and zest mixture.
Using an electric chopper with a coarse blade, blend the mixture to the desired consistency.
Add the celery, mustard, cardamom, salt, and sugar to the rest of the mixture, then cover and refrigerate for 2 days before serving.

Variations

Add diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Substitute cilantro for parsley for a different flavor profile.
Mix in diced mango or pineapple for a tropical twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to zest the limes before peeling them to ensure you capture all the aromatic oils from the skin.

- Use a coarse blade on an electric chopper to achieve the desired consistency for the relish.

- Refrigerate the relish for at least 2 days before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and develop fully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this lime relish as a topping for grilled fish or chicken, or mix it into a salad for a burst of citrusy flavor. It also pairs well with tacos, sandwiches, or as a dip for tortilla chips.

Cooking Techniques

Use an electric chopper to quickly and evenly chop the ingredients for the relish.

- Refrigerate the relish for at least 2 days before serving to allow the flavors to develop fully.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use lemon or orange zest in place of lime zest.

- Substitute red bell pepper for green bell pepper for a sweeter flavor.

- Use scallions instead of green onions for a milder taste.

Make Ahead Tips

This lime relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the lime relish in a small bowl or jar with a garnish of fresh parsley or lime slices. You can also spoon it onto a platter alongside grilled meats or seafood for a colorful and flavorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This lime relish pairs well with grilled fish, shrimp, chicken, or pork. It also complements dishes with bold flavors like tacos, burritos, or spicy curries.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover lime relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To serve, simply remove from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before enjoying.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 60

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 15g

Dietary Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 7g

Fats

Total Fat: 0g

Saturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 1g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 45% DV

Vitamin A: 10% DV

Calcium: 4% DV

Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.

Summary

This lime relish is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy and flavorful addition to your meals. It is also a good source of vitamin C and fiber.

Summary

This lime relish is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a bright and citrusy touch to a variety of dishes. With its fresh ingredients and zesty flavor, it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen for adding a burst of freshness to your meals.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Lime Relish many years ago. It was during a trip to the bustling market in Mexico City, where the vibrant colors and exotic scents captivated my senses. As I wandered through the maze of stalls, I came across a small, unassuming vendor selling an array of homemade condiments. Intrigued, I struck up a conversation with the elderly woman behind the counter.

She had a weathered face and twinkling eyes that spoke of a lifetime spent in the kitchen. I asked her about the various jars of relishes and salsas on display, and she eagerly began to share her recipes with me. When she mentioned her Lime Relish, my interest was piqued. She explained that it was a family recipe passed down through generations, a tangy and zesty condiment that added a burst of flavor to any dish.

I watched intently as she deftly chopped the limes, blending them with onions, cilantro, and a secret blend of spices. The aroma that wafted from the pot was intoxicating, and I knew I had to try it for myself. I purchased a jar of the Lime Relish and thanked the woman for sharing her recipe with me.

Back home, I wasted no time in recreating the Lime Relish in my own kitchen. I followed the instructions carefully, chopping the limes and mixing them with the other ingredients. As the relish simmered on the stove, filling the air with its mouthwatering scent, I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me. This was more than just a recipe – it was a connection to a culture and a tradition that stretched back centuries.

When the relish was finally ready, I eagerly spooned it onto a piece of grilled chicken. The first bite was a revelation – the tangy lime, the crisp onions, the fresh cilantro all melded together in perfect harmony. I knew I had discovered something truly special.

Over the years, I have made the Lime Relish countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its unique flavor profile. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that bustling market in Mexico City, where I first encountered the recipe that would become a staple in my kitchen.

As my grandchildren grew older, they too became enamored with the Lime Relish. They would sit at the kitchen table, watching with wide eyes as I chopped the limes and mixed the ingredients together. I would regale them with stories of my trip to Mexico City, of the kind woman who had shared her recipe with me. They would listen intently, hanging on to every word as if I were spinning a tale from a fairytale book.

One day, my eldest grandchild asked if she could help me make the Lime Relish. I smiled at her eagerness and handed her a knife, showing her how to chop the limes just so. As we worked together in the kitchen, I felt a sense of pride swell in my chest. This recipe, this tradition, was not just mine to hold onto – it was something to be passed down through the generations, a link that connected us to our past.

And so, the recipe for Lime Relish has become a cherished part of our family legacy. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to transcend borders and cultures. Every time we sit down to a meal topped with a dollop of Lime Relish, we are reminded of the kind woman in Mexico City who shared her recipe with us, and the bond that it has created within our family. For that, I am eternally grateful.