Name: Cranberry Orange Relish
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 large Orange ((unpeeled)); ½ cup Granny Smith apple ((cored and sliced)); 12 ounces Fresh cranberries ((rinsed)); ½ cup Granulated white sugar; ¼ cup Dark brown sugar; 1 teaspoon Lime zest ((~½ a lime))

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There’s something truly special about making Cranberry Orange Relish during the fall season. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors ignite a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of my grandmother’s kitchen bustling with activity. Each year, as the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself drawn to the market’s displays of fresh cranberries and bright oranges. It’s a tradition that I cherish, and this relish has become a staple at our Thanksgiving table. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet oranges creates a burst of flavor that complements the richness of holiday meals. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a delightful condiment to brighten your everyday meals, this Cranberry Orange Relish is sure to impress. Its vibrant taste and simplicity make it a must-try recipe that I can’t resist sharing.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
100 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Blender, Mixing Bowl, Peeler, Chef’s Knife

Why We Love This Cranberry Orange Relish

Perfect for Fall Festivities

The Cranberry Orange Relish is the quintessential accompaniment to your holiday feast. Its bright and tangy flavor contrasts beautifully with savory dishes, making it a favorite at Thanksgiving. It brings a unique twist that elevates any meal, reminding us to celebrate the season’s bounty.

Easy to Prepare

With just a handful of ingredients, this relish is a breeze to whip up. I love how it requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Just a quick pulse in the food processor and you’re done! It’s perfect for those busy days leading up to the holidays.

Versatile Flavor

This relish isn’t just for turkey! It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from roasted vegetables to grilled meats. You can even enjoy it on a simple cracker with cheese. Its versatility keeps me coming back for more.

Make Ahead Convenience

One of the best parts of this recipe is that it can be made in advance. Preparing the Cranberry Orange Relish the day before not only saves time on the big day, but it also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me, it tastes even better after a night in the fridge!

A Burst of Freshness

The bright citrus notes from the oranges and the tartness of the cranberries create a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday fare. Every bite feels like a burst of freshness that brings life to the table and leaves everyone wanting more.

Great for Gifting

Packaged in a cute jar, this relish makes a thoughtful homemade gift. It’s a great way to share a piece of your holiday spirit with friends and family. Who wouldn’t love receiving a jar of homemade Cranberry Orange Relish as a present?

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Relish

Creating a delicious Cranberry Orange Relish starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of sweet and tart. The vibrant colors and flavors not only make it a feast for the eyes but also add an exciting zing to your palate. Let’s dive into the key players that make this relish so special:

1 large orange, unpeeled (~2 cups with rind ON): This adds a refreshing zest and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
½ Granny Smith apple, cored and sliced (~1 cup): The apple contributes crispness and a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries.
12 ounces fresh cranberries, rinsed (about 3 cups): The star of the show, providing that signature tartness.
½ cup granulated white sugar: This sugar helps to sweeten the mixture while allowing the natural flavors to shine through.
¼ cup dark brown sugar: Adds depth and a slight molasses flavor that complements the cranberries.
1 teaspoon lime zest (~½ a lime): The lime zest enhances the freshness and brings a vibrant citrus note to the relish.

Recipe Steps for Cranberry Orange Relish

Making Cranberry Orange Relish is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to create a delightful condiment for your next gathering. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare!

Begin by using a sharp knife to cut the orange into eight even pieces. Keep the peel on, as it adds flavor and texture.
Next, place the orange pieces alongside the slices of Granny Smith apple into a food processor or blender. Pulse the mixture 4 to 5 times to initiate the chopping process. The goal here is to break them down without pureeing.
Now it’s time to add the fresh cranberries, granulated white sugar, dark brown sugar, and lime zest into the food processor. Ensure everything is well combined.
Pulsing the mixture about 8 to 10 times will help achieve a finely chopped consistency. Be careful not to over-process; you want a chunky relish rather than a puree.
Once you achieve the desired texture, scoop the relish into a large dish or bowl that can accommodate at least 4 cups of the mixture.
Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, but ideally overnight. This waiting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
When you’re ready to serve, remember that this relish is best enjoyed cold. Serve it as a refreshing condiment alongside your favorite dishes!

Things Worth Knowing

Using fresh cranberries is essential; frozen cranberries can alter the texture and flavor.
Don’t skip the peeling of the orange; the peel is where a lot of the flavor comes from!
Allow the relish to chill in the refrigerator for optimal melding of flavors.
This relish can also be served as a topping on desserts like cheesecake or yogurt for a unique twist!

Expert Tips about Cranberry Orange Relish

To ensure your Cranberry Orange Relish is a hit, keep these expert tips in mind:

Storage: Store the relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the relish for 2 to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator but be aware that the consistency may change slightly.
Pairing: This relish pairs wonderfully with turkey, ham, or even as a spread on your favorite sandwich.
Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or spices like cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestion: Serve it alongside cheese and crackers for a delightful appetizer.

Perfect Matches for Cranberry Orange Relish

When it comes to serving your Cranberry Orange Relish, there are endless possibilities. Here are some great ideas:

With Roast Turkey: A classic pairing, the tartness of the relish cuts through the richness of the turkey perfectly.
As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a pop of color and flavor.
On a Cheese Platter: Include it in a cheese board with various cheeses for a refreshing contrast.
At Thanksgiving Dinner: This relish is a must-have on any Thanksgiving table, adding a festive touch.
For Holiday Parties: It makes an excellent addition to any holiday gathering as a condiment or appetizer.
With Grilled Meats: Try pairing it with grilled chicken or pork for a surprising twist.

FAQ

While fresh cranberries provide the best flavor and texture for Cranberry Orange Relish, you can use frozen cranberries in a pinch. Just be aware that they may release more moisture, resulting in a slightly different consistency. If you do use frozen cranberries, make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to your mixture to avoid excess water.

The Cranberry Orange Relish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it, where it can last for 2 to 3 months. Just remember that the texture might change a bit when you thaw it, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!

This relish is incredibly versatile! It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, or grilled meats. You can also serve it as a bright, tangy topping for cheeses or as a unique condiment in sandwiches. The possibilities are endless, and it can really enhance your holiday spread!

No, it’s not necessary to peel the orange for this recipe. The peel adds flavor and nutrients to the Cranberry Orange Relish. Keeping it on will enhance the zestiness of the relish, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to cut it into even pieces so it blends well.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Orange Relish is a vibrant and refreshing addition to any meal, especially during the holiday season. Its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors will brighten up your table and impress your guests. I encourage you to give this easy and delightful recipe a try. It’s a simple way to add a touch of homemade goodness to your celebrations!