Farm to Fork : Pickled Squash and Zucchini

There is nothing quite like enjoying the flavors of summer long after the harvest. This Farm-to-Fork Pickled Squash & Zucchini recipe is a simple way to preserve the fresh taste of locally grown yellow squash and zucchini while creating a crisp, tangy side dish that's perfect for sandwiches, burgers, charcuterie boards, salads, or straight from the jar.

Whether you're picking up from our South Memphis Farmers Market or The Grocer, this recipe celebrates seasonal vegetables at their peak. Pickling not only extends their shelf life but also enhances their flavor with a delicious balance of vinegar, herbs, and spices.

Yellow squash and zucchini are naturally low in calories while providing important vitamins and antioxidants.

These vegetables are a good source of vitamin A (through carotenoids, especially in yellow squash) and vitamin C, nutrients that:

• Support a healthy immune system.

• Help maintain healthy vision.

• Assist the body in healing wounds.

• Support healthy cell growth and development.

• Provide antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

Pickled Squash and Zucchini Recipe

Ingredients

1 1/2 lbs yellow squash or zucchini

1/2 medium yellow onion

1 1/4 cups Apple Cider Vinegar

1 1/4 Cups water

2 1/2 tbsp honey or sugar

2 tsp salt

1 tsp celery seeds or mustard seeds

2 cloves garlic

Optional: 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make It

Place the sliced squash and onion in a bowl. Sprinkle with salt, toss and let sit for 30-60 minutes. Drain the liquid and rinse the vegetables lightly. Transfer the squash and onions into a clean, wide-mout quart-sized mason jar or airtight container. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, honey or sugar, salt and spices. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar or honey is completely dissolved.

Carefully pour the hot brine over the vegetables in the jar, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let the jar cool uncovered to room temperature on the counter. Once, cool, cover and refrigerate. They can be eaten after 4 hours, but for maximum flavor refrigerate for 24-48 hours. Will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

At The Works, we believe everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy food and the knowledge to prepare it. Through our urban farming, nutrition education, and food access programs, we're helping build healthier communities one meal at a time.

Want more farm-fresh recipes? Follow our Farm-to-Fork series and discover new ways to enjoy seasonal produce grown right here at The Works Urban Farm. You can always visit our Mobile Grocer or stop by the Grocer at the South Memphis Farmers Market.