Easy 10-Minute Pepperoncini Relish: The Ultimate Tangy & Spicy Condiment

Pepperoncini Relish is a vibrant explosion of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors, crafted from a handful of simple ingredients and ready in just 10 minutes! This versatile condiment is perfect for elevating your favorite hot dog or brat, but don’t stop there – get creative with the many serving ideas we’ll explore below.

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Mezzetta. As always, all opinions are my own.

If you’re anything like me, you have a deep appreciation for all things pickled. There’s something undeniably satisfying about that bright, briny kick that transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. For years, pickled vegetables have been a staple in my kitchen, a constant source of joy and flavor. And now, during pregnancy, that love has intensified into a full-blown craving!

From classic dill pickles to various pickled veggies, I can’t get enough. This is precisely where Mezzetta truly shines. Their Greek pepperoncinis and sliced jalapeños are absolute game-changers, becoming my go-to toppings for sandwiches and so much more. And their hot peppers? I could honestly eat them straight from the jar! When it comes to bold, authentic flavor, Mezzetta consistently delivers, making them my top choice for pickled delights.

One afternoon, while working at my desk, I started brainstorming new and exciting ways to incorporate these delightful Mezzetta products into my cooking. Serendipitously, Mezzetta was eager to collaborate, and today, we’re partnering to show you how Mezzetta truly makes every dish “betta” with this incredible homemade relish.

Today, we are talking about RELISH – a condiment often underestimated, but capable of so much more!

Relish is often pigeonholed as a mere topping for hot dogs fresh off the grill, a supporting character rather than a star. But I’m here to challenge that notion and introduce you to a relish that commands attention. By bringing the exceptional flavor of Mezzetta pepperoncinis and jalapeños to the forefront, we’re creating a condiment that will redefine your perception of relish.

When it comes to adding a little extra something to your everyday meals, this simple homemade pepperoncini relish is an absolute winner. It’s incredibly easy to make, and while it excels as the perfect topping for hot dogs or brats, its versatility extends far beyond that. Trust me, you’ll be surprised!

Of course, topping a juicy brat with a generous dollop of this hot pepper relish, alongside some ketchup and mustard, remains one of my all-time favorite ways to enjoy it – it’s absolutely amazing! This truly is the best pepperoncini relish for hot dogs and brats, delivering a burst of flavor that complements them perfectly.

What Are Pepperoncini Made Of?

At their core, pepperoncinis are made from pepperoncini peppers! These delightful little peppers are characterized by their mildly tangy, subtly sweet, and just-a-hint-spicy flavor profile. They are most commonly found pickled in a vinegar brine, often enhanced with a touch of salt and sometimes garlic or other aromatic spices, depending on the brand or specific recipe. Typically, they boast a vibrant yellow-green hue and possess a tender texture. When you bite into them, you’re greeted with a satisfying briny pop that injects a bright, zesty note into a wide array of dishes, from everyday sandwiches and salads to, in this case, the most exceptional relish you’ll ever taste. For those eager to delve deeper into the fascinating world of these versatile peppers, a comprehensive resource all about pepperoncini is available.

Ingredients for Pepperoncini Relish

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the relish’s vibrant flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:

• Mezzetta Golden Greek Pepperoncini: The undisputed star of this relish! These provide that signature tangy, slightly sweet, and mild heat that defines the dish. Make sure to remove their stems before processing. You’ll also save some of the flavorful brine from the jar, as it’s essential for cooking down the relish.
• Mezzetta Sliced Tamed Jalapeño Peppers: These add a wonderful layer of warmth without overwhelming spiciness. By using “tamed” jalapeños, you get a pleasant kick that complements the pepperoncinis, ensuring the relish is spicy but still enjoyable for most palates.
• Red Bell Pepper: Contributes a subtle sweetness and a beautiful pop of color to the relish. It also adds a fresh, crisp texture before cooking down. Remember to remove the seeds and roughly chop it for easy processing.
• Yellow Bell Pepper: Similar to the red bell pepper, the yellow variety brings another touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Together, the red and yellow bell peppers create a rich base for the relish. Seed and roughly chop before adding to the food processor.
• White Onion: Chosen for its crisp, pungent flavor, white onion provides a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the bell peppers and the tang of the pickled peppers. If you prefer a slightly milder or sweeter relish, a yellow onion can be used as a delicious alternative. Roughly chop it for the food processor.
• Fresh Garlic: Absolutely essential for a rich, aromatic foundation. Fresh garlic offers a much more potent and nuanced flavor than powdered garlic. Peel the cloves and cut them in half to help them process evenly.
• Mezzetta Golden Greek Pepperoncini Juice: Don’t discard this precious liquid! It’s packed with the briny, tangy essence of the pepperoncinis and is crucial for cooking down the relish, infusing it with even more of that signature flavor.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the entire relish, enhancing the tangy notes and adding a lively citrusy finish. If you’re using store-bought lemon juice, which can be more concentrated, I recommend starting with about 1/4 teaspoon and adjusting to taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who appreciate a bit more heat, red pepper flakes offer a controlled and adjustable spicy kick. They perfectly complement the natural warmth of the peppers without overpowering the other flavors.
• Freshly Chopped Parsley: Added at the end, fresh parsley introduces a herbaceous freshness and a lovely green garnish, lifting the overall taste and making the relish look even more appealing.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A touch of good quality olive oil binds the flavors together, adds a subtle richness, and contributes to the relish’s smooth texture. Use your favorite brand for the best results.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings to balance and enhance all the other ingredients. Taste and adjust to your preference.

Essential Equipment for This Relish

Making this pepperoncini relish is incredibly straightforward, especially with the right tools:

• Food Processor: This is truly the star piece of equipment for this recipe. It makes quick work of finely chopping all the vegetables and peppers, ensuring a consistent texture for your relish. While a food processor is highly recommended for efficiency, a high-powered blender like a Vitamix could also work, though you might need to pulse carefully to avoid pureeing.
• Saucepan: You’ll need a small to medium-sized saucepan to gently cook down the relish mixture. This step softens the vegetables and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Fine Mesh Sieve/Strainer: Crucial for draining any excess liquid from the relish after it’s cooked. This helps achieve the perfect relish consistency and prevents it from being too watery.
• Mason Jar or Airtight Container: Essential for storing your freshly made relish. A mason jar not only looks great but also provides an excellent airtight seal, keeping your relish fresh in the refrigerator.

How to Make Pepperoncini Relish!

This recipe is designed for ease and maximum flavor, making homemade relish accessible to everyone. Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious pepperoncini relish:

1. Chop It All Up

Forget the tedious chopping board and knife work! This recipe lets your food processor do all the heavy lifting. Begin by adding the Mezzetta Golden Greek pepperoncinis (stems removed), Mezzetta Sliced Tamed Jalapeño Peppers, red bell pepper (seeded and roughly chopped), yellow bell pepper (seeded and roughly chopped), white onion (roughly chopped), and halved fresh garlic cloves to the bowl of a large food processor. Pulse the ingredients a few times until everything is finely chopped to your desired relish consistency. Be careful not to over-process and turn it into a paste; you want a nice texture with small, uniform pieces.

2. Cook Down

Transfer the finely chopped pepper and onion mixture into a small saucepan. Stir in the reserved Mezzetta Golden Greek pepperoncini juice, fresh lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Place the saucepan over medium heat and allow it to simmer gently for about 3 to 5 minutes. The goal here is not to boil the mixture vigorously, but rather to soften the vegetables slightly and allow their flavors to meld beautifully while some of the juices are released. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

3. Drain & Cool

Once the vegetables are slightly softened and the flavors have combined, remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully drain out any excess liquid using a fine mesh sieve. This step is important to ensure your relish isn’t too watery. Let the relish cool completely before proceeding. Once cooled, transfer it to a medium bowl and stir in the freshly chopped parsley, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Your vibrant homemade pepperoncini relish is now ready to serve immediately or store for later. For storage, transfer it to an airtight container (a mason jar works perfectly!) and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

FAQs

Can I Can This Recipe?

While I am not a canning expert and cannot make guarantees regarding long-term preservation, the principles suggest it could be doable for short-term canning. If you are familiar with safe canning practices, you might try adding the relish to a sterilized canning jar, then topping it off with additional brine from the pepperoncini jar. Be sure to leave about 1/4-inch headspace at the top of the jar for proper sealing. For best results and food safety, it’s always recommended to consult official canning guidelines and recipes. If any canning enthusiasts out there try this method, please share your results and tips in the comments below! Your insights would be invaluable to others.

Are Banana Peppers and Pepperoncinis the Same?

They are indeed quite similar, leading to frequent confusion, but they are not precisely the same. Both banana peppers and pepperoncinis share a yellowish-green hue when pickled, boast a subtle heat, and a tangy flavor. However, there are some distinct differences. Pepperoncinis typically have a slightly more wrinkled skin and tend to be a bit tangier and less sweet compared to banana peppers. While you can certainly use them interchangeably in a pinch for a similar mild pepper experience, the nuanced flavor profile of your relish won’t be identical. For the authentic taste of this recipe, pepperoncinis are the preferred choice.

What Can I Use in Place of Pepperoncini?

If you find yourself without pepperoncinis, don’t worry – you have a few excellent substitution options! The easiest swap is banana peppers; they offer a very similar mild heat and tangy profile, making them a good stand-in for a comparable flavor experience. If you’re looking to dial up the heat, pickled jalapeños (like the Mezzetta Tamed variety used in this recipe) are a great choice, but be prepared for a significantly spicier relish. For a slightly different twist, consider chopped giardiniera for a medley of pickled vegetables and a sweet-and-sour crunch, or even finely diced pickled cherry peppers if you prefer a sweeter, milder heat. Each substitute will impart its own unique character to the relish, so choose based on your desired flavor and heat level.

Do Pepperoncinis Have Probiotics?

This is a common and excellent question! Pepperoncinis will only contain probiotics if they have been fermented. The vast majority of store-bought pepperoncinis, including the delicious Mezzetta ones I use in this recipe, are pickled using vinegar. While this process gives them their wonderful tangy flavor and preserves them, the vinegar and heat typically used kill off any beneficial bacteria that might be present, meaning they do not contain live probiotics.

However, if pepperoncinis are naturally fermented – meaning they’ve been brined without vinegar and allowed to develop their tangy flavor through the natural action of good bacteria – then yes, they can indeed be a source of probiotics. If you’re looking for probiotic-rich pepperoncinis, seek out labels that specifically mention “fermented” or check the refrigerated sections of health food stores or farmers’ markets. Alternatively, you can always embark on the rewarding journey of fermenting your own peppers at home to ensure that gut-friendly boost!

How to Store Pepperoncini Relish?

Storing your homemade pepperoncini relish correctly is key to enjoying its fresh flavor for as long as possible. Once you’ve made the relish and allowed it to cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container. Mason jars are an excellent choice because they provide a tight seal and are visually appealing. Store the sealed container in the refrigerator. Your pepperoncini relish will stay fresh and flavorful for 1 to 2 weeks. Always use a clean spoon when scooping out relish to prevent contamination, which can extend its shelf life. If you notice any unusual odors or discoloration, it’s best to discard it.

Variations

This pepperoncini relish recipe is fantastic as is, but it also serves as a wonderful base for creative variations:

• Sweeter Relish: For a less tangy and slightly sweeter profile, substitute banana peppers for the pepperoncinis. You can also add a pinch of sugar during the cooking process to enhance the sweetness further.
• Extra Spicy Kick: If you’re a heat enthusiast, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You could also add a finely minced habanero or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture before cooking for an intense fiery flavor.
• Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different fresh herbs. Besides parsley, fresh cilantro or dill can add unique aromatic notes. Add them at the very end, just before serving, to preserve their vibrant flavor.
• Smoky Flavor: A tiny dash of smoked paprika can introduce a lovely smoky depth to the relish, particularly appealing if you’re serving it with grilled meats.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just ensure you’re using a good quality extra virgin olive oil.
• Garlic Lover’s Dream: If you adore garlic, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two to the food processor. The fresh garlic will deepen the savory undertones of the relish.

How to Use Pepperoncini Relish

The beauty of this homemade pepperoncini relish lies in its incredible versatility. While it’s a perfect partner for grilled classics, its tangy, spicy, and savory notes make it an ideal addition to countless dishes. Here are some of my personal favorite and most creative ways to incorporate this flavorful condiment into your meals:

• Effortless Appetizer: For a quick and impressive appetizer, simply pile a generous amount of relish over a block of softened cream cheese. Serve it with your favorite crackers or crusty bread like ciabatta for an irresistible dip that’s bursting with flavor.
• Sandwich and Burger Booster: Elevate your everyday sandwiches and burgers. Spread it directly onto the bun or mix it into mayonnaise for a zesty, creamy condiment. It adds a gourmet touch to any lunch or dinner.
• Custom Sandwich Spread: Create a signature sandwich spread by combining this relish with mustard and mayonnaise. The possibilities are endless – try different types of mustard (Dijon, honey mustard) to vary the flavor. You can even sneak a spoonful into your next grilled cheese sandwich for an unexpected kick!
• Salad Enhancer: Stir a tablespoon or two into your potato salad, egg salad, or tuna salad recipes. The relish will add a bright, tangy depth that transforms these classic dishes, making them even more flavorful and exciting.
• Savory Burger Patties: Mix the relish directly into ground turkey, beef, or chicken burger patties before cooking. It infuses the meat with a delightful zing and keeps the burgers moist and flavorful.
• Innovative Sauces: Swap out traditional pickle relish for pepperoncini relish in your tartar sauce or Thousand Island dressing recipes. This simple substitution will give these familiar sauces a whole new, exciting character.
• Eggs Benedict Upgrade: A spoonful of pepperoncini relish can add a fantastic zesty twist to hollandaise sauce or be served directly on top of your eggs Benedict for a bright, tangy contrast.
• Deviled Eggs Deluxe: Mix a small amount into your deviled egg filling for an unexpected burst of tangy, spicy flavor.
• Marinade Magic: Combine with olive oil, a touch of vinegar, and other herbs to create a vibrant marinade for chicken, pork, or even firm tofu.

Finally, if you make this incredible pepperoncini relish recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! I absolutely love hearing about your culinary adventures and how these recipes come to life in your homes. I truly take the time to respond to every single comment and appreciate your feedback.

Feel free to drop any questions you might have below as well – I’m always happy to help!

Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you whip up this delicious relish! Seeing your photos and how you enjoy these recipes is truly my favorite thing. It means the world to me to connect with you all!

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Pepperoncini Relish

Ready in just 10 minutes, this homemade pepperoncini relish is a burst of tangy, spicy flavor that goes perfectly on everything from brats and hot dogs to burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers!

Prep Time:
5 minutes mins

Cook Time:
10 minutes mins

Total Time:
15 minutes mins

Servings:
10

4.9 from 145 votes

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Equipment

• Mason Jars
• Fine Mesh Strainer
• Wooden Spoon & Scraper
• Small Saucepan
• 9-Cup Food Processor

Ingredients

• 1 cup Mezzetta Golden Greek Peperoncini stems removed, plus 2 Tbsp juice from jar
• 1/3 cup Mezzetta Sliced Tamed Jalapeño Peppers
• 1/2 red bell pepper seeded and roughly chopped
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper seeded and roughly chopped
• 1/4 white onion roughly chopped
• 3 cloves fresh garlic halved
• 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
• 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

• Chop Ingredients: Add the pepperoncinis (stems removed), jalapeños, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the bowl of your food processor. Pulse several times until all ingredients are finely chopped to a relish consistency. Avoid over-processing to keep some texture.
• Cook Down: Transfer the chopped mixture to a small saucepan. Stir in the reserved pepperoncini juice, fresh lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Cook over medium heat for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened and some of their natural juices have released. The mixture should simmer gently, not boil vigorously.
• Drain and Finish: Drain out any excess liquid using a fine mesh sieve. Let the relish cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to a medium bowl. Stir in the freshly chopped parsley, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Serve and Store: Serve your delicious pepperoncini relish immediately with your favorite dishes. To store, place the relish in an airtight container (a mason jar is ideal!) and keep it in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 19kcal |
Carbohydrates: 3g |
Protein: 1g |
Fat: 1g |
Saturated Fat: 0.1g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 1g |
Sodium: 182mg |
Potassium: 84mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 1g |
Vitamin A: 459IU |
Vitamin C: 32mg |
Calcium: 9mg |
Iron: 0.3mg

Calories:
19kcal

Cuisine:
American