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Zucchini Marmalade
Zucchini Marmalade is a clever and delightful preserve that transforms summer squash into a vibrant, citrusy jam. This recipe showcases how resourceful home cooks made use of garden overabundance—like the ever-prolific zucchini, by combining it with crushed pineapple, lemon, and crystallized ginger. The result is a golden, jewel-like spread that's tangy, sweet, and subtly spicy, perfect for toast, biscuits, or as a glaze for roasted meats. With its bright flavor and unique base, this marmalade surprises everyone who tastes it.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling and Canning 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Preserves
Cuisine American
Servings 7 half pint jars
Calories 647 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs zucchini (peeled and sliced)
  • 2 lemons (juice of )
  • 1 tbsp grated lemon peel
  • 13½ oz crushed pineapple (drained)
  • 1 pkg pectin (Sure-jell)
  • 5 cups sugar
  • 2 tbsp crystallized ginger (chopped )

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Squash

  • Peel and slice the summer squash.

Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients

  • Place squash in a large kettle with lemon juice, grated peel, and drained pineapple.

Step 3: Simmer

  • Bring mixture to a boil.
  • Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Pectin

  • Stir in the Sure-Jell pectin and bring to a full boil.

Step 5: Add Sugar and Ginger

  • Stir in the sugar and chopped crystallized ginger.
  • Return to a rolling boil and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

Step 6: Finish

  • Remove from heat and skim foam if needed.
  • Cool 5 minutes.

Step 7: Jar

  • Ladle into sterilized jars and seal. Process in a boiling water bath if storing long-term.

Tips

  • Use young summer squash for best texture and mild flavor
  • Chop ginger very finely to avoid fibrous bits
  • Add a pinch of salt to enhance citrus brightness
  • For smoother marmalade, lightly mash before jarring
  • Works well as a toast spread or pastry filling
  • Excellent paired with cream cheese or goat cheese
  • Makes a thoughtful edible gift when jarred properly
  • Lemon zest can be increased slightly for extra tang
  • Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place
  • Refrigerate after opening

Nutrition

Calories: 647kcalCarbohydrates: 167gProtein: 2gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.02gSodium: 28mgPotassium: 453mgFiber: 4gSugar: 157gVitamin A: 294IUVitamin C: 46mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 1mg
Keyword citrus, ginger, homemade preserves, marmalade, summer canning, sweet spread, vintage recipe, zucchini
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