Looking for a vibrant and refreshing twist on a classic holiday side? This Zesty Cranberry-Pineapple Relish brings a burst of tartness and sweetness that will brighten up any spread. Perfect for holiday meals or a simple weeknight dinner, it's a dish that stands out with its unique flavor combination and ease of preparation.
Cranberries are the star of this dish, providing that signature tartness and a beautiful ruby-red color. Pineapple adds a juicy sweetness that complements the cranberries perfectly. Granulated sugar helps mellow the tartness of the cranberries, while honey adds depth with its natural sweetness. The lime zest and juice introduce a zesty, citrusy note that ties everything together. A touch of salt enhances all the flavors, and ground cinnamon gives a warm, subtle spice that rounds out the relish.
This relish is a perfect companion for roasted turkey or chicken, adding a bright, fruity contrast. It's equally delicious as a topping for grilled pork chops or as a condiment for a cheese platter. You can even mix it into yogurt for a refreshing breakfast or snack.
Start by preparing your cranberries and pineapple. Toss 12 ounces of fresh cranberries and 1 cup of diced fresh pineapple into your food processor. Pulse them a few times until they are finely chopped but still have some texture. You don’t want a puree; think more of a chunky salsa consistency.
Next, transfer the chopped mixture to a medium saucepan. Add in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of honey, the zest and juice of 1 lime, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Give everything a good stir to ensure the ingredients are well mixed.
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture frequently as it cooks, helping the sugar dissolve and preventing anything from sticking to the bottom. You’ll notice the relish starting to thicken as it cooks, which should take about 10 minutes. Once it reaches a consistency you like, remove it from the heat.
Allow the relish to cool to room temperature. This cooling step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Once cooled, you can either transfer it to a serving dish if you're planning to serve it right away or store it in an airtight container for later.
Share