Cranberry Orange Relish

Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe

Cranberry orange relish is a vibrant and tangy side dish that brings a burst of flavor to your meals. This dish combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright citrus notes of orange, making it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes, especially during the holiday seasons. The crunch from walnuts adds texture, while a hint of cinnamon provides warmth. It is a delightful, refreshing option that can liven up any table.

Making cranberry orange relish is simple and quick. You can whip it up in just a few minutes, and it will keep in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re planning a festive dinner or just want a tasty condiment for your everyday meals, this relish is sure to impress.

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry orange relish is not just tasty; it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are several reasons why you should consider making this recipe:

• Health Benefits: Fresh cranberries are loaded with nutrients. They are low in calories and high in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Adding walnuts provides healthy fats and proteins, making this dish nutritious as well as delicious.

• Easy to Prepare: This relish takes only a few minutes to make. With minimal preparation, you can create a fresh and flavorful condiment that enhances any meal.

• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness level to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter taste, simply add more sugar. You can even leave out the walnuts if you want a nut-free option.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: This dish is great for everyday meals, holiday dinners, or even as a topping for desserts. Its bright colors and flavors brighten up any plate.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this relish in advance. It keeps well in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over time.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Relish

Making cranberry orange relish is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious, zesty relish that you can enjoy any time of year.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions

1. Rinse the cranberries and remove any stems.
2. In a food processor, combine the fresh cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but still has some texture.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
5. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to meld the flavors.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Relish

Cranberry orange relish can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas:

• As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside roasted turkey or chicken. It complements savory dishes beautifully.

• On Sandwiches: Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for a burst of flavor.

• With Cheese: Pair it with cheese and crackers for a fantastic appetizer.

• On Desserts: Use it as a topping for cheesecake, vanilla ice cream, or yogurt.

Feel free to be creative with how you serve it!

How to Store Cranberry Orange Relish

Storing cranberry orange relish is simple. Here’s how:

• Refrigerator: Place any leftover relish in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to one week. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

• Freezer: If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze the relish. Place the relish in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Relish

• Adjust the Sugar: Start with 1/2 cup of sugar, but taste the mixture. You can add more if you like it sweeter.

• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries. If using frozen, do not thaw them before processing.

• Try Different Nuts: If you don’t have walnuts, try pecans or almonds for a different flavor and texture.

• Add Other Flavors: Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg for more complexity.

• Serving Temperature: Serve this relish chilled for the best flavor, but it’s also good at room temperature.

Variation

While this cranberry orange relish is delicious as it is, you can try several variations to suit your taste:

• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the mixture for a spicier flavor.

• Add More Citrus: Incorporate other citrus fruits like lemon or lime zest for a different citrus profile.

• Use Dried Fruits: Mix in some dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots for added sweetness and texture.

• Herbal Touch: Adding fresh mint leaves or thyme may surprise your taste buds with a new herbal dimension.

FAQs

Can I make cranberry orange relish ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors often improve after resting for a while.

What can I use instead of sugar?

If you want to reduce sugar, consider using honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute. Remember to adjust the quantity as needed.

Is cranberry orange relish spicy?

No, cranberry orange relish is not typically spicy. However, you can add spices like cinnamon or ginger if you enjoy a bit of warmth.

Can I use canned cranberries?

While fresh cranberries provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned cranberries in a pinch. However, make sure to drain them well and adjust the sugar since canned versions often contain added sweeteners.

How long does cranberry orange relish last?

In the refrigerator, it can last up to one week. If frozen, it can last for up to three months.

By making your own cranberry orange relish, you not only create a delicious dish, but you also add a touch of homemade charm to your meals. Enjoy crafting this vibrant condiment, and watch it become a favorite on your table!

Cranberry Orange Relish

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• Author: amanda-hart
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A vibrant and tangy side dish combining fresh cranberries and orange, perfect for enhancing any meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces fresh cranberries
• 1 orange, zested and juiced
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

1. Rinse the cranberries and remove any stems.
2. In a food processor, combine the fresh cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but still has some texture.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
5. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.
6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to meld the flavors.

Notes

This relish can be made ahead of time and will keep in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors deepen over time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cranberry orange relish, holiday side dish, cranberry sauce, easy relish recipe, tangy condiment