5-Minute Raw Cranberry-Orange Relish
A vibrant, no-cook cranberry-orange relish that comes together in just 5 minutes, offering a perfect balance of tart and sweet to brighten any meal, especially holiday feasts.
For 6 servings
Thoroughly rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Set aside.
Prepare the orange: Wash the orange well, then carefully peel it, removing as much of the white pith as possible. Quarter the orange and remove any seeds.
Place the rinsed cranberries, peeled and quartered orange, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup (or honey), salt, and optional grated ginger into the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade.
Pulse the mixture in short bursts (about 1-2 seconds per pulse). Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Continue pulsing until the mixture is finely chopped but still has some texture; avoid over-processing into a smooth purée.
Taste the relish and adjust sweetness if desired, adding the remaining tablespoon of maple syrup or honey if you prefer a sweeter profile. Pulse once or twice more to incorporate.
Transfer the cranberry-orange relish to a serving bowl. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
Serve chilled as a vibrant accompaniment to roasted meats, poultry, or as a spread on sandwiches and toast. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Do not over-process: Aim for a finely chopped, textured relish, not a smooth paste. Pulsing in short bursts gives you better control over the consistency.
- 2Adjust sweetness to your preference: The tartness of cranberries varies. Start with less sweetener and add more after tasting, ensuring a perfect balance for your palate.
- 3Chill for enhanced flavor: While delicious immediately, allowing the relish to chill for at least an hour (or even overnight) significantly improves its flavor as the ingredients meld.
- 4Use a good quality orange: A sweet, juicy navel orange with minimal pith will yield the best flavor and texture for your relish.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spiced Cranberry-Orange Relish
Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves along with the other ingredients for a warm, festive twist.
Nutty Cranberry Orange RelishNutty Cranberry-Orange Relish
Incorporate 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts during the last few pulses for added texture and a rich, earthy flavor.
Tropical Cranberry Orange RelishTropical Cranberry-Orange Relish
Add 1/4 cup of fresh pineapple chunks or mango to the food processor for a brighter, more exotic flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Cranberries are packed with powerful antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins (PACs), which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
High in Vitamin C
Both cranberries and oranges are excellent sources of Vitamin C, crucial for immune system support, skin health, and collagen production.
Supports Digestive Health
The high fiber content in both cranberries and oranges aids in healthy digestion, promoting regularity and contributing to gut health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this relish is perfect for making ahead! It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, and the flavors often improve after a day or two.
