Cranberry-Orange Relish

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
Be the First to Review!

Cranberry-Orange Relish is your go-to for a fresh, zesty twist on classic condiments. This vibrant relish pairs perfectly with holiday feasts, adding a pop of color and flavor to your table. Simple to make, it lets you focus on spending time with loved ones rather than fussing in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Cranberry-Orange Relish

Cranberries are the star of this relish, offering that distinctive tartness. They are packed with antioxidants, which is a nice bonus during the indulgent holiday season. Orange segments provide a burst of juicy sweetness, while the orange juice and zest amplify the citrusy notes. Sugar balances out the tartness of the cranberries, giving the relish its sweet edge. Lastly, walnuts add a delightful crunch and subtle earthiness to the mix.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a less sweet relish, start with a smaller amount of sugar and adjust to taste.
  • For an extra kick, add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the mix.
  • Using fresh orange juice will give you the best flavor, but bottled juice will work in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

This relish is a natural partner for roasted turkey or chicken, bringing a bright contrast to rich meats. It also makes a great topping for baked brie or a cheese board, adding a pop of color and flavor. Try it as a sandwich spread, especially with leftover turkey or ham for a post-holiday treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess water before using.
How long does the relish last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the relish will keep for about a week.
Can I make this relish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors develop even more if made a day in advance.

Cranberry-Orange Relish Recipe Walkthrough

Start by giving your cranberries a good rinse under cold water, ensuring they are clean and free of any debris. Drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your relish. Now, peel and segment your orange, making sure to remove any seeds — nobody likes an unexpected bite of bitterness.

Get your food processor ready. Combine the cranberries, orange segments, and sugar. Pulse this mixture until it's finely chopped. You want a chunky texture, not a puree, so keep an eye on it as you go.

Transfer the chopped mixture into a bowl. Stir in the walnuts, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and tuck it into the fridge for at least two hours. This waiting time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, leaving you more time for other dishes.
  • No cooking required — just a food processor and a bit of stirring.
  • Fresh, tangy flavor that complements turkey, chicken, or even a cheese platter.
  • Perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a nutty crunch.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries
1 large orange, peeled and segmented
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
1/4 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon orange zest

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Rinse the cranberries and drain them well.
2. In a food processor, combine cranberries, orange segments, and sugar, pulse until finely chopped but not pureed.
3. Transfer mixture to a bowl, stir in walnuts, orange juice, and orange zest.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours for flavors to meld.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!