Pineapple relish, like cranberry relish, has been interpreted in many ways. There are many recipes available for pineapple relish and each one is a little different. Some similarities can be found in the basic list of ingredients which includes pineapple, onion, peppers and lime.
Pineapple may be the main ingredient in this fruit relish, but it can be made sweet or spicy, depending on the type of peppers and onions in the mixture. Most recipes combine some vegetables and fruits. The remaining ingredients are commonly found in marinades and salad dressings. These ingredients include oil or vinegar, lime juice for acidity, garlic, salt and pepper to taste.
The best recipes for pineapple relish come from chefs all around the world. In Hawaii, hot dogs may be topped with a flavorful relish made of pineapple instead of pickle relish. In other parts of the world, pineapple relish is served as a side dish alongside steak or pork. A Mexican interpretation creates yet another twist, which produces a pineapple salsa or relish.
Pineapple relish for hot dogs often contains sauteed sweet onion and green peppers, canned crushed pineapple, chopped garlic and fresh lime zest. Additional ingredients include salt and pepper, cider vinegar and whole grain mustard. The pineapple concoction is cooked in a saucepan until the texture and flavor is just right.
A more common form of pineapple relish is served as a side dish. In contrast to the hot dog relish recipe, freshly chopped or diced pineapple is used instead of canned crushed pineapple. Thinly sliced red onion, chopped red peppers and chives or parsley are added to the fresh pineapple. Salt and lime juice bring the relish together. Some sugar and white vinegar also may be added if desired.
Mexican relish with pineapple is similar to a fruit salsa. The finished product can make a perfect accompaniment to tortilla chips or fish tacos. Freshly chopped tomato is introduced to pineapple, red onion, chopped parsley or cilantro, garlic and jalapeno peppers. Small amounts of salt and balsamic vinegar are used to combine the flavors prior to serving.
Cooking with pineapple can lend a sweet twist to traditional cranberry relish. Typically served around the holidays in the United States, cranberry relish is commonly made with fresh cranberries, sugar and lemon juice. One can toss in a can of crushed pineapple and its juice to create cranberry-pineapple relish.