5-Minute Raw Cranberry-Orange Relish
A bright, zesty no-cook relish that pairs tart fresh cranberries with sweet orange and a hint of ginger. Ready in just five minutes, this refreshing condiment adds a burst of color and tangy-sweet flavor to holiday tables, cheese boards, or sandwiches.
For 8 servings
- prep · ~1 min
Wash and prep the orange.
1.Wash the orange thoroughly under running water.2.Cut into quarters and remove any seeds.TIPUse an organic orange if possible since you're using the whole peel. - mix · ~2 min
Pulse the cranberries, orange, and ginger.
1.Add cranberries, orange quarters, and ginger to the food processor.2.Pulse in short bursts until finely chopped and well combined (8-10 pulses).3.Scrape down the sides with a spatula. - mix · ~1 min
Add sugar and finish the relish.
1.Add sugar and a pinch of salt to the food processor.2.Pulse 2-3 more times just to incorporate — do not over-process into a paste.3.Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.TIPThe relish should have some texture — small cranberry bits and flecks of orange peel. - rest · ~15 min
Rest the relish before serving.
Transfer the relish to a serving bowl. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes at room temperature so the flavors meld, or refrigerate for a few hours.
TIPMaking it a day ahead deepens the orange-ginger brightness against the tart cranberries. - serve
Serve or refrigerate the finished relish.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use organic oranges since the peel is processed whole and not peeled.
- 2Pulse in short bursts; over-processing turns the relish into a mushy paste.
- 3Let the relish rest at least 15 minutes so flavors meld before serving.
- 4Make it a day ahead — the orange-ginger flavor deepens overnight.
- 5Taste and adjust sugar after resting, as the cranberries' tartness balances over time.
- 6Chill leftovers in an airtight container for up to one week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low-sugar
Reduce sugar to 1 tablespoon or replace with a natural sweetener like maple syrup for a less sweet, more tart relish.
spicedSpiced
Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cloves for a warm, holiday-spiced twist.
herbedHerbed
Fold in 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint or cilantro after pulsing for a fresh, savory note.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Both cranberries and orange provide a natural boost of vitamin C, supporting immune health.
High in Dietary Fiber
Using the whole orange (peel and all) adds fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
Contains Antioxidants
Cranberries are packed with proanthocyanidins, which help combat oxidative stress.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, frozen cranberries work well — no need to thaw them before pulsing.
