If you’re searching for a bright, tangy, and wonderfully textured side to brighten up your holiday table or any meal, look no further than this Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe. It’s a beautiful balance of tart cranberries, zesty orange, sweet apple, and a touch of warmth from cinnamon and rosemary that makes each bite an explosion of flavors and colors. Whether you’re a cranberry lover or new to this vibrant condiment, this recipe is sure to become a cherished classic in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, this Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe comes together effortlessly. Each component not only brings its own unique flavor but also adds texture and vibrancy that make the relish so irresistible.
- 12 oz. frozen cranberries (thawed): The tart base of the relish, offering vibrant color and a refreshing zing.
- 1 navel orange (zest and fruit): Adds bright citrus notes and a burst of juicy sweetness.
- 1 cup apple (cut into 1-inch chunks with skin intact): Brings natural sweetness and a crisp texture that balances the tart cranberries.
- ½ cup walnuts (chopped and toasted): Adds a satisfying crunch and toasty depth.
- â…“ cup honey (or pure maple syrup, or sugar): A touch of natural sweetness to complement the fruit and spices.
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a smooth, warm note.
- 1 tsp. rosemary (finely chopped): Herbal brightness that enhances the complexity of the relish.
- ½ tsp. salt (to taste): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- â…› tsp. cinnamon: A whisper of warmth that ties the dish together beautifully.
How to Make Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Fruit
Start by thawing the frozen cranberries overnight in the refrigerator if they aren’t fresh. This keeps them firm and ready to blend. Then, zest your navel orange carefully to capture all that aromatic citrus peel, before separating the orange into bite-sized pieces. Finally, chop the apple into 1-inch chunks with the skin on — it keeps the texture crisp and adds beautiful color speckles throughout your relish.
Step 2: Pulse Ingredients
Load all your chilled cranberries, orange pieces, apple chunks, toasted walnuts, orange zest, honey or your chosen sweetener, vanilla extract, finely chopped rosemary, salt, and cinnamon into a large food processor. Pulse gently 15 to 30 times until you reach a consistency you love — some prefer it chunkier for texture, others a bit smoother for ease of spreading. The beauty of this Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe is how customizable the texture can be to your preferences.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
If you’ve used chilled cranberries right from the fridge, feel free to serve immediately for a fresh, vibrant relish. If the ingredients were at room temperature, pop the relish into the refrigerator for about 2 hours to let the flavors meld and intensify. This simple resting period really elevates the overall taste, making every spoonful a delight.
How to Serve Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped toasted walnuts or a few whole fresh cranberries on top not only adds a pretty finishing touch but introduces a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the relish’s softness. A sprig of fresh rosemary can also brighten the presentation and enhance its aromatic appeal.
Side Dishes
This relish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or chicken, making it a classic companion for holiday meals. It also elevates cheese platters, especially alongside creamy brie or tangy goat cheese. On sandwiches, it brings a fresh zing to turkey or ham, adding a burst of festive flavor and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the traditional bowl! Serve your Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe in small mason jars as charming individual servings, or dollop it atop crackers paired with soft cheese for an easy appetizer. For a festive brunch, spoon it over warm pancakes or yogurt for a fruity twist that will impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to meld over time, making it taste even better the next day. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this relish later in the season, freezing is an excellent option. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Typically, this relish is served cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warmed, gently heat it in a saucepan over low heat just until it’s warm through. Avoid boiling to preserve the fresh fruity flavors and texture that make this relish so special.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just be sure to rinse and pick through them for any soft berries before use. If using fresh, you can proceed without thawing.
Is it possible to make this relish without nuts?
Yes, feel free to omit the walnuts if you have allergies or prefer a nut-free option. The relish will still have plenty of texture and flavor without them.
Can I substitute the apple with another fruit?
While apple adds a nice crispness and sweetness, you could try pears or even diced pineapple for a tropical twist. Just keep the texture firm enough so it doesn’t turn mushy when processed.
How long does the relish last once made?
This Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe keeps nicely for up to one week in the refrigerator. Flavor and texture may evolve, but it remains delicious and safe to eat within that time frame.
Can I make this relish ahead for a holiday gathering?
Definitely! Making it a day or two in advance actually enhances the flavors as they meld. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a quick stir before serving for the freshest taste.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe that combines the brightness of cranberry and citrus with subtle warmth and crunch. Whether you’re bringing it to a holiday feast or enjoying it throughout the year, this relish adds a burst of flavor, color, and festive spirit to every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved part of your cooking tradition!
Print
Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Fresh Cranberry Orange Relish is a vibrant and tangy condiment perfect for holiday gatherings or as a refreshing accompaniment to your meals. Combining the tartness of cranberries, the citrusy burst of orange, the natural sweetness of apple and honey, and the warm flavors of rosemary and cinnamon, this relish adds a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and offers a fresh twist on traditional cranberry sauce.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 12 oz. frozen cranberries (thawed, about 3 cups)
- 1 navel orange (zest and fruit)
- 1 cup apple (cut into 1-inch chunks with skin intact)
Nuts & Sweeteners
- ½ cup walnuts (chopped and toasted)
- â…“ cup honey (or pure maple syrup, or sugar)
Spices & Flavorings
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 tsp. rosemary (finely chopped)
- ½ tsp. salt (to taste)
- â…› tsp. cinnamon
Instructions
- Prep the Fruit: If using previously frozen cranberries, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Zest the orange carefully and then separate the orange fruit into pieces. Cut the apple into approximately 1-inch chunks, leaving the skin on.
- Pulse Ingredients: Place the chilled cranberries into a large 10 to 14-cup food processor. Add the orange pieces, apple chunks, chopped toasted walnuts, orange zest, honey (or alternative sweetener), vanilla extract, finely chopped rosemary, salt, and cinnamon. Pulse the mixture 15 to 30 times, or until the relish reaches your desired consistency, whether chunky or smooth.
- Serve and Store: Serve the relish immediately if the cranberries were chilled. If the cranberries were at room temperature, refrigerate the relish for 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with pure maple syrup or sugar.
- Toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan to enhance their flavor before adding.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or sugar according to taste.
- Relish can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to blend even more.
- Keep refrigerated and consume within 7 days for best freshness.
