Green Tomato, Squash, and Pattypan Salad for Winter

This delightful green tomato, squash, and pattypan salad is a perfect way to preserve the fresh, summery flavors for the colder months. This tangy and savory salad combines a variety of vegetables infused with spices, making it a flavorful companion to many meals. The combination of green tomatoes, zucchini, and pattypan squash results in a texturally satisfying dish that is both nutritious and delicious. The salad is easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a winter pantry staple. The use of tomato paste adds a rich depth of flavor while spices like paprika and dried basil enhance the profile of the dish. Vinegar provides the necessary acidity to preserve this salad, ensuring it stays fresh and vibrant throughout the winter. The preparation involves a simple sauté and simmer, allowing the vegetables to absorb all the delightful flavors. Packaged in jars, this salad is a convenient and quick addition to your winter meals. Not only is this salad incredibly versatile, but it also brings sunshine and warmth to your table when the days are short and cold.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg green tomatoes
• 1 kg pattypan squash
• 1 kg zucchini
• 1/2 kg onions
• 300 g tomato paste
• 150 g oil
• 100 g sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt

Spices

• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

Other

• 1/2 cup water
• 1 dessert spoon of 70% vinegar essence or 6 tablespoons of 9% vinegar

Preparation Time

30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing the green tomatoes, zucchini, and pattypan squash thoroughly. Cut them into small, manageable pieces for even cooking.

2. Chop the Onions: Peel and slice the onions finely. This will help them cook evenly when sautéed.

3. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking.

4. Sauté the Onions: Add the sliced onions to the pot and sauté them until they become translucent and soft, enhancing their sweetness.

5. Add Main Ingredients: Introduce the chopped green tomatoes, zucchini, and pattypan squash to the onions. Stir them well to coat with the oil.

6. Add Water and Seasonings: Pour in the water, then add salt and sugar. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the sugar and salt dissolve.

7. Simmer the Vegetables: Allow the mixture to reach a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let the vegetables cook together until they soften.

8. Incorporate Tomato Paste: Once the vegetables are tender, mix in the tomato paste. This will provide a concentrated flavor base for the salad.

9. Season with Spices: Add the sweet paprika and dried basil to the pot, stirring well to evenly distribute the spices.

10. Continue Simmering: Let the mixture cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

11. Add Vinegar: Finally, add the vinegar or vinegar essence to the pot. This step is crucial for preservation and adding the final tangy kick to the salad.

12. Prepare for Canning: Sterilize your jars while the salad is simmering. This will ensure the longevity of your preserved salad.

13. Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot salad mixture into the prepared jars, leaving a small space at the top.

14. Seal the Jars: Seal the jars tightly with lids to prevent contamination and spoilage.

15. Store for Winter: Place the jars in a cool, dark place to keep them fresh until you're ready to enjoy them.

16. Optional Step: Label the jars with the date and contents for easy identification in the pantry.

Tips

• Substitutions: Feel free to substitute zucchini with yellow squash if preferred.
• Thicker Consistency: For a thicker salad, reduce the liquid further by simmering longer.
• Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
• Protein: 2g
• Fats: 7g
• Carbs: 20g

Variations

• Low-Sugar Option: Use honey or a sugar substitute for a healthier alternative.
• Herb Choices: Swap dried basil with thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• On the Side: Pair with grilled meats or roasted chicken for a hearty meal.
• Garnish: Add fresh basil or parsley before serving for a burst of freshness.

Best Places

• Café Sabarsky - A chic spot offering delightful, seasonal dishes. Location: 1048 5th Ave, New York, USA.
• Le Café des Stagiaires - Known for its diverse menu influenced by global flavors. Location: 19 Yongkang Rd, Shanghai, China.
• Café Central - An elegant café providing a taste of European cuisine. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Fuglen - Combines classic and modern tastes seamlessly. Location: Universitetsgata 2, Oslo, Norway.
• Buvette - Offers a cozy ambiance along with their picturesque dishes. Location: 42 Grove St, New York, USA.
• Café de Flore - A Parisian classic with an extensive menu. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
• Café Sperl - Reflects Austrian tradition with its culinary offerings. Location: Gumpendorfer Str. 11, Vienna, Austria.
• Workshop Coffee - Pioneers in the craft of exceptional coffee and food. Location: 27 Clerkenwell Rd, London, UK.
• Chye Seng Huat Hardware - A café that doubles as an artisan's workshop. Location: 150 Tyrwhitt Rd, Singapore.
• Nomad Coffee - Renowned for its unique blends and vibrant atmosphere. Location: Coin de la Plume, Barcelona, Spain.