Cranberry Relish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cranberry Relish is a bright, tangy, and sweet accompaniment that brings a burst of flavor to holiday meals. Unlike cooked cranberry sauce, this relish is raw and refreshing, often made with citrus and a hint of sweetness. It’s perfect for turkey, ham, sandwiches, or as a zesty side dish that adds color and zing to your plate.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

fresh cranberries
orange (with peel)
apple
granulated sugar
lemon juice (optional for extra tartness)
walnuts or pecans (optional for crunch)

directions

Rinse the cranberries and drain well.

Quarter the orange and remove any seeds. Keep the peel on for added flavor.

Core and slice the apple into chunks.

In a food processor, pulse the cranberries, orange, and apple until finely chopped. Be careful not to over-process—it should have texture.

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the sugar.

Taste and add lemon juice if desired for extra tanginess.

If using, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 2 cups of relish.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Add a bit of grated ginger for a spicy kick.
Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for natural sweetness.
Swap the apple for pear for a softer, floral note.
Stir in crushed pineapple for tropical flair.
Include a pinch of cinnamon or cloves for a warm holiday touch.

storage/reheating

Store cranberry relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
This relish is best served cold and does not need reheating.
It can also be frozen for up to 1 month—thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Is cranberry relish the same as cranberry sauce?
No, relish is raw and uncooked, offering a fresher taste and chunkier texture.

Can I make cranberry relish ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after a day or two in the fridge.

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, just thaw and drain them before processing.

Can I make this without a food processor?
Yes, you can finely chop all ingredients by hand, though it takes more time.

Does cranberry relish need to be cooked?
No, it’s a raw dish that’s ready after mixing and chilling.

Is it too tart for kids?
It depends—adjust the sugar to suit your family’s taste.

Can I can cranberry relish for long-term storage?
This is not recommended for canning due to its raw ingredients.

Conclusion

Cranberry Relish is a vibrant, easy-to-make side that adds freshness and bold flavor to any holiday spread. With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, it’s a quick way to elevate your festive table. Try it once, and it might become your new seasonal favorite.

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