Quick and Easy Cranberry Relish Recipe
Introduction
This Quick and Easy Cranberry Relish is a refreshing and zesty side that brings vibrant color and bright flavor to any holiday table. Made with fresh cranberries, orange, and apple, it’s a simple yet delicious companion for roasted meats and festive meals.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 seedless orange (unpeeled)
- 1 Granny Smith apple (peeled, cored)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the cranberries and remove any soft or damaged ones. Drain well and place them into a food processor.
- Step 2: Cut the orange into 8 sections, keeping the peel on. Cut the peeled and cored apple into 8 sections as well. Add these to the food processor with the cranberries.
- Step 3: Pulse the fruits in the food processor until they are minced into small pieces. Be careful not to over-process; you want a chunky texture rather than a puree.
- Step 4: Stir in the granulated sugar until fully combined. Transfer the relish to a serving bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- For a spiced twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger while pulsing the fruits.
- Use a blood orange for a sweeter, more colorful variation.
- If you prefer a smoother relish, pulse a little longer, but avoid turning it into a puree.
- Adjust the sugar to taste depending on the tartness of your cranberries and apple.
Storage
Store leftover cranberry relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to develop over time. Serve chilled or at room temperature. If the relish thickens too much after refrigeration, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and stir before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this cranberry relish ahead of time?
Yes, this relish can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Frozen cranberries can be used if fresh are not available, but thaw and drain them well before pulsing to avoid excess moisture in the relish.
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Quick and Easy Cranberry Relish Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Quick and Easy Cranberry Relish is a vibrant, fresh condiment perfect for holiday meals or as a zesty topping for sandwiches. Made with fresh cranberries, a seedless orange with its peel, and a tart Granny Smith apple, it combines sweet and tangy flavors with a satisfying texture. The simple preparation involves pulsing the fruits in a food processor and mixing with sugar, making it an effortless addition to your festive spread.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 seedless orange (unpeeled)
- 1 Granny Smith apple (peeled, cored)
Sweetener
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberries: Rinse the cranberries thoroughly, removing any soft or damaged berries. Drain well and place them into a food processor.
- Prep the orange and apple: Cut the seedless orange into 8 sections without peeling. Peel and core the Granny Smith apple, then cut it into 8 sections as well. Add both to the food processor with the cranberries.
- Pulse the fruits: Pulse the mixture in the food processor until the fruits are minced into small, evenly sized pieces. Be careful not to over-process to maintain a good texture.
- Mix with sugar: Stir in the granulated sugar thoroughly to combine. Transfer the relish to a serving bowl.
- Let it rest: Allow the relish to sit for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- This relish is best served chilled or at room temperature.
- Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days; the flavors deepen over time.
- For added zest, you can include a tablespoon of orange zest.
- If you prefer a sweeter relish, adjust sugar quantity accordingly.
- Use fresh cranberries for the best texture and flavor; frozen may become mushy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cranberry relish, holiday condiment, fresh cranberry sauce, easy cranberry relish, fruit relish
