This Hawaiian-inspired relish is a beautiful balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The fresh pineapple brings a burst of tropical sweetness, while the jalapeno adds just the right amount of heat, making it an irresistible topping for grilled meats or tacos.
Perfect for summer barbecues, this relish is both refreshing and bold, giving a tropical twist to your favorite dishes. Whether you’re serving it as a condiment for burgers or adding it as a side to grilled chicken, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 cup pineapple, finely chopped
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2 tablespoons fresh jalapenos, finely chopped
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1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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In a medium bowl, combine pineapple, jalapenos, red onion, and cilantro.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and garlic powder.
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Pour the teriyaki mixture over the pineapple mixture and stir until well combined.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the relish sit for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve with grilled meats, tacos, or use as a topping for burgers.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes (including refrigeration)
Kcal: 60 kcal
Servings: 6 servings
What Makes Pineapple Jalapeno Teriyaki Relish So Special?
The charm of this pineapple jalapeno relish lies in its simplicity and bold flavor. The fresh pineapple gives it a naturally sweet and juicy texture, which is beautifully complemented by the bite of jalapenos and red onion. This relish isn’t just a topping; it’s a statement of flavor, bringing together tropical and savory ingredients that transform any meal into a festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a new way to spice up your salads, this relish will bring a tropical flair to any dish.
Perfect Pairings for Pineapple Jalapeno Teriyaki Relish
One of the best things about this relish is its versatility. It’s perfect for pairing with almost any grilled protein, making it ideal for a barbecue or outdoor dinner. The fresh, tangy pineapple cuts through the richness of meats like steak, chicken, and pork, offering a balance that enhances the flavors of the grill. You can serve it as a side to your favorite grilled fish or even drizzle it over hot dogs for a Hawaiian-inspired twist on a classic.
In addition to its meat pairings, this relish also shines as a topping for tacos, adding a juicy and spicy kick to the dish. It’s an excellent addition to salads or rice bowls, especially those that include grilled vegetables or avocado. And for a fun and casual appetizer, scoop it up with tortilla chips for a quick and tasty snack.
The Ingredients That Make It Shine
Pineapple is the star of this relish, providing natural sweetness and juiciness. The jalapeno adds just enough heat to give the relish a lively kick without overpowering the other flavors. Red onion and cilantro give it a crisp, fresh bite, while the red bell pepper contributes both color and subtle sweetness.
The teriyaki-inspired dressing made from coconut aminos, honey, vinegar, and spices ties everything together with an umami depth. Whether you choose tamari or soy sauce as your base, the rich flavor from these ingredients enhances the relish and adds a savory undertone that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of pineapple. The inclusion of garlic and ginger brings warmth and earthiness, rounding out the flavor profile and making this relish more than just a fruity topping.
Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients
Besides its delicious taste, this relish can also offer a range of health benefits. Pineapple is packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and enzymes like bromelain that can support digestion and reduce inflammation. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like red bell peppers, onions, and cilantro boosts the relish’s nutritional content with vitamins A and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
The addition of healthy fats from avocado oil adds a creamy texture and promotes heart health. Moreover, coconut aminos or tamari sauce can be a great alternative for those avoiding soy, providing a gluten-free option while still delivering rich flavor. Honey adds a touch of natural sweetness, making this relish an ideal choice for those who want to avoid refined sugars.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
One of the great things about this relish is its ability to stay fresh for several days. Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will keep for up to five days, making it a great make-ahead condiment for meal prepping. This allows you to enjoy it throughout the week, whether you’re using it as a topping for meals or serving it with chips for an impromptu snack.
When serving this relish, be sure to let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will blend, and the relish will become even more flavorful.
Creative Ways to Use Pineapple Jalapeno Teriyaki Relish
While this relish is fantastic as a topping for meats, its versatility extends beyond just grilled proteins. Here are some other creative ways to enjoy it:
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On Burgers and Sandwiches: Add a spoonful of this relish to your burgers or sandwiches for a burst of sweet and spicy flavor. It pairs particularly well with grilled chicken or a veggie burger.
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As a Salad Dressing: Mix a couple of tablespoons of this relish into a salad with greens, grilled veggies, and avocado for a tropical-inspired dressing.
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In Grain Bowls: Add this relish to a grain bowl with quinoa, rice, or couscous, along with your favorite proteins and veggies for a satisfying meal.
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Topped on Grilled Veggies: Grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers would be perfectly complemented by this pineapple relish. Its acidity balances out the richness of the grilled veggies.
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For Dipping Chips: For a fun and casual snack, serve this relish with tortilla chips or pita chips for an appetizer that’s both fresh and flavorful.
Can You Grill the Pineapple for Added Flavor?
Yes! If you want to add an extra layer of flavor to your relish, consider grilling the pineapple before chopping it into pieces. This caramelizes the sugars in the pineapple, adding a smoky depth to the relish that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Simply slice the pineapple into thick rounds, brush them with oil, and grill for about 3-6 minutes on each side until you see nice char marks. Let it cool, chop it up, and mix it into your relish for a more complex flavor profile.
What Other Fruits Can You Use for This Relish?
While pineapple is the star of this relish, it’s not the only fruit that works well. If you’re craving something a little different, you can substitute the pineapple with mango, strawberries, or even papaya. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor and texture to the relish, so feel free to experiment and adjust the recipe to suit your tastes.
Conclusion
Pineapple jalapeno teriyaki relish is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that can elevate almost any dish. Whether you’re serving it with grilled meats, tacos, or simply enjoying it with chips, it’s a versatile condiment that will make any meal feel like a tropical celebration. The fresh ingredients and savory dressing make this relish a healthy and delicious addition to your table, and its ability to be made ahead of time makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or summer cookouts. With its balance of flavors and simple ingredients, this relish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.