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There’s something magical about the way the tartness of cranberries meets the zesty brightness of oranges. This Easy Cranberry Orange Relish isn’t just a holiday side dish it’s a vibrant, refreshing treat that brings flavor to every bite. Whether you serve it with roasted turkey, pile it on warm toast, or use it as a quick dessert topping, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and citrusy notes. For me, it brings back warm memories of family gatherings where a single bowl of this relish could spark smiles and second helpings. Now it’s your turn to make this simple, beautiful dish part of your tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Relish
If you’re looking for a quick but unforgettable recipe, this relish ticks all the boxes:
- No cooking required – it comes together in minutes in a food processor.
- Fresh ingredients – just cranberries, orange, sugar, and cinnamon.
- Versatile serving possibilities – serves as a side, spread, or topping.
- Make-ahead convenience – the flavor deepens after resting in the fridge.
Refreshing Cranberry Orange Relish in 10 Minutes
- Total Time: 2 hr 10 min
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cranberry Orange Relish is a fresh, no-cook holiday side bursting with tart cranberries, sweet orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients
- 1 medium navel orange
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- ½ cup white sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. Grate 2 teaspoons of zest from orange; discard remaining peel and pith from orange. Divide orange into sections.
2. Place orange sections, orange zest, cranberries, sugar, and cinnamon in a food processor; pulse until finely chopped.
3. Transfer relish to a bowl. Cover and refrigerate until flavors have blended, at least 2 hours and up to 3 days.
Notes
Pulse gently to preserve texture.
Adjust sugar based on sweetness of the orange.
Best served chilled.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Easy Cranberry Orange Relish
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Navel orange (medium) | 1 | Use fresh for best flavor |
| Fresh cranberries | 12 ounces | Rinse and drain well |
| White sugar | ½ cup | Adjust to taste |
| Ground cinnamon | ⅛ teaspoon | Adds subtle warmth |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Orange
- Wash and dry your orange.
- Grate 2 teaspoons of zest.
- Peel the orange, removing all white pith.
- Separate into segments.
Step 2 – Blend the Relish
- In a food processor, add:
- Orange segments
- Orange zest
- Fresh cranberries
- Sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Pulse until finely chopped, not pureed. You want a textured relish.
Step 3 – Chill for Flavor
- Transfer to a bowl.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (can be stored for up to 3 days).
- Serve chilled.
Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Relish
- Choose ripe oranges to balance the tart cranberries.
- Pulse, don’t blend to avoid a mushy texture.
- If it’s too tart, add more sugar.
- This relish pairs amazingly with turkey, ham, pancakes, waffles, or yogurt.
Serving Ideas
- As a holiday side dish with roast meats.
- Spread over morning toast or bagels.
- A topping for cheesecake or ice cream.
- Stir into oatmeal or yogurt bowls.
Storage
Store tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, freeze in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Nutritional Info (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 |
| Sugar | 16 g |
| Sodium | 0 mg |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
FAQ About Cranberry Orange Relish
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Just thaw them fully and drain excess liquid before pulsing.
Is cranberry orange relish the same as cranberry sauce?
Not quite. Relish is uncooked and chunky, while cranberry sauce is cooked and smooth.
Can I make it sugar-free?
You can use honey or maple syrup, but the taste will differ slightly.
Does it keep well for leftovers?
Absolutely. In fact, the flavor deepens after a day or two.
Conclusion
With only four ingredients and minimal prep time, this Easy Cranberry Orange Relish is proof that simplicity can be delicious. By making it ahead, you allow the flavors to mingle into the perfect holiday side or breakfast topping. Next time you want a splash of color and taste on your table, let this quick recipe be your go-to.