Zucchini Marmalade with Lemon, Pineapple & Ginger

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.
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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