Savory Cranberry & Jalapeño Relish
This vibrant, sugar-free cranberry and jalapeño relish offers a refreshing burst of flavor and texture, perfect for cutting through rich dishes without adding extra carbs or sugar.
For 6 servings
Rinse the cranberries thoroughly. If using frozen cranberries, there's no need to thaw them completely, but they should not be frozen solid.
Add the cranberries to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse 5-7 times until they are coarsely chopped. You want distinct pieces, not a purée.
Add the minced shallot, seeded and minced jalapeño, chopped fresh cilantro, orange zest, fresh lime juice, sea salt, and a pinch of black pepper to the food processor.
Pulse another 3-5 times, just until all ingredients are combined and evenly distributed. Be careful not to over-process; the relish should still have a chunky, textural quality.
Taste the relish and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, lime juice, or jalapeño for extra heat.
Transfer the relish to a small serving bowl. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled or at room temperature as a condiment with roasted meats, poultry, or as a vibrant topping for appetizers.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Adjust the spice level by including more or less of the jalapeño, or by leaving some of the seeds in for extra heat. For a milder version, remove all seeds and membranes.
- 2For a slightly sweeter profile without added sugar, you can include a tiny pinch of a natural, calorie-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol, but it's delicious as is.
- 3This relish can be made up to 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to deepen over time.
- 4Beyond meats, try this relish as a topping for cream cheese on crackers, mixed into Greek yogurt for a savory dip, or even folded into scrambled eggs.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruity Twist
Add 1/4 cup of finely diced apple (like Granny Smith) or pear along with the cranberries for an extra layer of sweetness and crunch.
Herbaceous BoostHerbaceous Boost
Swap out or add fresh mint or parsley instead of cilantro for a different aromatic profile. Rosemary or thyme could also work in smaller quantities.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
For a hotter relish, use a serrano pepper instead of jalapeño, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other ingredients.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Cranberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly proanthocyanidins, which help protect cells from damage and support overall health.
Digestive Health Support
The fiber content in cranberries and other fresh ingredients aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
Low-Calorie & Nutrient-Dense
This relish is naturally low in calories and carbohydrates, while providing essential vitamins (like Vitamin C from cranberries and orange zest) and minerals.
Frequently asked questions
Stored in an airtight container, this Savory Cranberry & Jalapeño Relish will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.
