Cranberry Orange Relish: The 9 Amazing Secret

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Cranberry Orange Relish has been a staple at my holiday table ever since I was a little girl, a vibrant burst of flavor that always outshone the traditional cooked cranberry sauce. I still remember the first time my grandmother made this fresh, tangy condiment; the aroma of citrus and tart cranberries filled her kitchen, a scent I now associate with warmth and family. This homemade cranberry orange relish is incredibly easy to whip up and everyone always asks for seconds, making it the perfect no-cook Thanksgiving cranberry orange side dish. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking for a fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious alternative to canned cranberry sauce. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Relish

I genuinely believe this Cranberry Orange Relish will become your new favorite holiday side dish, or even a year-round condiment. Here’s why I love making it:

• It offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, with a delightful crunch from the walnuts and fresh fruit.
• This is an incredibly easy cranberry orange relish to prepare, taking just minutes of active time in the food processor.
• It’s a healthier alternative to many store-bought sauces, packed with fresh ingredients and natural sweetness.
• Making this easy cranberry orange relish from scratch is surprisingly budget-friendly, often costing less than gourmet canned options.
• The vibrant colors make it a beautiful addition to any meal, truly brightening up your plate.
• It’s incredibly versatile; beyond turkey, I love it on chicken, pork, or even mixed into yogurt.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Relish

To make this vibrant and fresh Cranberry Orange Relish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. I always choose the freshest produce for the best flavor and texture in my kitchen.

• 1/2 cup shelled walnuts or pecans – I love the earthy crunch these add, but feel free to pick your favorite nut. Toasting them really brings out their flavor!
• 12 ounces fresh cranberries – The star of our show! Look for plump, firm berries for the best fresh cranberry orange relish.
• 1 medium navel orange, skin included, scrubbed, and cut into chunks – Don’t skip the peel; it provides that essential citrus zest and aromatic oils.
• 1 medium sweet crisp apple (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala), washed with peel on, cut into chunks – This adds a lovely sweetness and another layer of texture.
• 1/3 cup mild honey (such as clover) – My preferred natural sweetener to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
• 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier) – This is optional, but I find it deepens the orange flavor in this incredible fresh cranberry orange relish.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Relish

Making this fresh Cranberry Orange Relish is surprisingly simple, and the process is quite enjoyable. I love how quickly it comes together, especially when I’m juggling multiple dishes around the holidays. This recipe truly is a no-cook cranberry orange relish for the most part, with just a quick step to toast the nuts for extra flavor!

1. Step 1: First, let’s get those nuts perfectly toasted. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the walnuts or pecans evenly on an ungreased rimmed baking sheet. I like to keep them in a single layer so they toast evenly. Bake for 8 to 12 minutes, keeping a close eye on them, until they are lightly golden and you can smell their wonderful, nutty aroma. Remove them from the oven immediately and transfer them to a plate to cool completely. You can even pop them in the fridge for a few minutes if you’re in a hurry to make this easy Cranberry Orange Relish.
2. Step 2: Now for the vibrant fruit! In a food processor fitted with a steel blade, add the fresh cranberries, the prepped orange chunks (yes, with the peel for that amazing zest!), and the apple chunks. My favorite part about this no-cook cranberry orange relish is how the food processor does all the hard work here. Pulse alternately between long and short bursts. You’re aiming for a uniformly finely chopped mixture, but it should still have a lovely, slightly crunchy texture. Don’t over-process, or it will become too mushy.
3. Step 3: Once your fruit mixture is perfectly chopped, add the cooled toasted walnuts to the food processor. Pulse just a few times more to roughly chop the nuts and incorporate them into the fruit mixture. This ensures every bite of your Cranberry Orange Relish has that delightful crunch.
4. Step 4: Transfer the chopped mixture into a serving bowl. Stir in the honey, which will add a beautiful sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries. If you’re using it, now is also the time to add the orange liqueur; it really enhances the citrus notes. Stir everything until it’s well combined.
5. Step 5: Cover the bowl and chill your homemade Cranberry Orange Relish for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This chilling time is crucial, allowing all those incredible flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve your fresh, bright relish chilled or at room temperature.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Relish

I’ve made this Cranberry Orange Relish countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that guarantee a perfect batch every time. These expert tips will elevate your relish from good to absolutely unforgettable.

• Always use fresh, firm cranberries. Avoid any soft or shriveled berries, as they won’t provide the right texture or tartness for your Cranberry Orange Relish.
• Don’t over-process the fruit mixture in the food processor. You want a finely chopped texture, not a purée, so it retains a pleasant crunch.
• Allow ample chilling time, ideally overnight. This step is crucial for the flavors to fully meld and deepen, creating the most delicious Cranberry Orange Relish.
• Taste and adjust sweetness. Depending on the tartness of your cranberries and orange, you might want to add a touch more honey.

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Orange Relish?

The real secret to a perfect sweet and tangy cranberry orange relish lies in using the whole orange, peel and all! The oils in the zest provide an incredible aromatic depth that you just can’t get from juice alone. This, combined with proper chilling, makes all the difference.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Relish ahead of time?

Absolutely, and I highly recommend it! Making your Cranberry Orange Relish a day or two in advance allows the flavors to truly meld and intensify. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Orange Relish?

One common mistake is over-processing the ingredients, which can turn your relish into a watery purée. Pulse in short bursts for a chunky texture. Also, don’t skip toasting the nuts; it adds a crucial layer of flavor to your Cranberry Orange Relish.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Relish

While this vibrant Cranberry Orange Relish is a showstopper on its own, I’ve discovered several ways to enjoy its fresh, tangy goodness that go beyond the holiday table. It’s incredibly versatile and adds a burst of flavor to many dishes.

Of course, the classic pairing is with your holiday bird. This cranberry orange relish for turkey is absolutely divine, cutting through the richness of the meat with its bright, zesty profile. I love serving it alongside roasted potatoes and green bean casserole.

Beyond Thanksgiving, try spooning it over grilled chicken or pork chops for an unexpected twist. It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to a cheese board, especially with aged cheddar or creamy brie. Sometimes, I even stir a spoonful into plain Greek yogurt for a quick, healthy breakfast!

Nutrition Facts for Cranberry Orange Relish

I find it helpful to know what I’m eating, so here are the estimated nutrition facts for this vibrant Cranberry Orange Relish. These values are based on the recipe making 9 servings, which is about 3 tablespoons per serving.

• Calories: 90
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 2mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Enjoy your healthy Cranberry Orange Relish!

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Relish

One of the best things about this homemade Cranberry Orange Relish is how well it stores, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days or holiday meals. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy its fresh flavors for days, or even months!

To store cranberry orange relish, first ensure it’s completely cooled if it’s been sitting out at room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container. I prefer glass containers as they don’t absorb odors. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and the flavors actually deepen over time, which is a bonus!

If you’re looking to extend its shelf life even further, this Cranberry Orange Relish freezes wonderfully. Simply place it in a freezer-safe, airtight container, leaving a little headspace. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. No reheating is necessary; it’s best served chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Relish

What is cranberry orange relish, exactly?

Cranberry Orange Relish is a fresh, uncooked condiment made from cranberries, oranges (often including the peel), and other ingredients like apples, nuts, and sweeteners. Unlike traditional cooked cranberry sauce, it retains a vibrant, chunky texture and a bright, zesty flavor profile. It’s truly a burst of freshness on your plate.

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cranberries for making Cranberry Orange Relish! Just be sure to thaw them completely before adding them to your food processor. I sometimes find that frozen cranberries can release a bit more liquid, so you might want to drain any excess before processing to maintain the best texture.

What if I don’t have a food processor for this cranberry orange relish?

While a food processor makes quick work of this Cranberry Orange Relish, you can still make it by hand! You’ll just need a sharp knife and a bit more patience. Finely chop the cranberries, orange (including the peel), apple, and toasted nuts by hand. It will take longer, but the delicious results are definitely worth the effort.

How long does homemade cranberry orange relish last?

Once prepared, your homemade Cranberry Orange Relish will last beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen over time, making it an excellent make-ahead dish. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Relish You Can Try

While my classic Cranberry Orange Relish recipe is perfect as is, I love experimenting with different flavors and textures. Here are a few ways you can customize this vibrant dish to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Spiced Relish: For a warmer flavor profile, add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tiny dash of cloves to the food processor with the fruits. This gives it a cozy, holiday spice note.
• Ginger Zest: Incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger for a delightful zing. It pairs wonderfully with the citrus and cranberries, adding an unexpected kick to your Cranberry Orange Relish.
• Pineapple Twist: For a tropical touch, add about 1/2 cup of fresh or canned (drained) crushed pineapple to the mixture. This adds extra sweetness and a different kind of tang, creating an almost orange-infused cranberry sauce with a tropical flair.
• Sugar-Free Option: If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can swap the honey for a sugar substitute suitable for cooking, like erythritol or stevia, to make a healthier version of this relish.

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