Irresistible No-Sugar Added Cranberry Relish Recipe

There’s something magical about the holiday season that makes you crave all those delicious, tart, and sweet flavors. Imagine a vibrant bowl of cranberry relish, bursting with bright red berries and zesty notes that dance on your taste buds. soft baked cranberry cookies This delicious no-sugar added cranberry relish recipe is not just another side dish; it’s a festive explosion of flavor that your family will eagerly dive into during Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. zesty avocado salad roasted cauliflower side.

Picture this: You’re gathered around the table, laughter filling the air as everyone digs into a feast. The aroma of roasted turkey wafts through the room, but it’s that bowl of cranberry relish stealing the spotlight. teriyaki steak rice bowl It’s tangy, refreshing, and just the right amount of sweet—without any sugar! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever celebrated without it.

I remember the first time I made this cranberry relish; my family was skeptical at first. But when they took that first bite, their eyes lit up like they had just uncovered buried treasure!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cranberries: Opt for firm cranberries with bright color for the best flavor and texture. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with cranberries recipe.
• Orange Zest: Use fresh zest from an orange to add a vibrant citrus note that complements the tartness.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: These natural sweeteners add depth without overwhelming sweetness; adjust based on your taste.
• Chopped Nuts (optional): Pecans or walnuts bring in a delightful crunch and nuttiness; toast them for extra flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: A dash of ground cinnamon enhances warmth and coziness in every bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries under cold water. Discard any mushy ones because nobody wants a squishy surprise in their relish.

Zest and Juice Your Orange: Grate the outer peel of an orange for zest using a microplane grater. Squeeze out its juice afterward to enhance flavor with fresh acidity.

Combine All Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine cranberries with orange zest and juice. Add honey or maple syrup along with ground cinnamon for that warm spice.

Mash It Up!: Using a fork or potato masher, gently mash some cranberries while leaving others whole for texture. You want a chunky yet cohesive mixture.

Let It Chill: Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least two hours. This allows flavors to meld beautifully together.

Serve It Up!: Once chilled, give your relish a good stir before serving. Spoon it into your favorite serving dish—watch as everyone gathers around!

Now you have an incredible no-sugar added cranberry relish ready to elevate your holiday feasts! Enjoy every vibrant bite while basking in compliments from family members who can’t believe how tasty healthy can be.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To make this cranberry relish, start by washing the cranberries thoroughly, then simmer them with your chosen sweetener until they burst. This sequence ensures maximum flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the sweetener for honey or maple syrup for a unique twist. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile surprisingly well.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cranberry relish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. No reheating necessary—just serve it cold or at room temperature.

Creating this no-sugar-added cranberry relish was a revelation during last year’s Thanksgiving. It turned my skeptical uncle into a fan after he tried it on turkey! For more inspiration, check out this baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well but may need additional cooking time to soften.

How can I make this relish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.

What dishes pair well with cranberry relish?

Cranberry relish complements turkey, pork, and even cheese platters beautifully.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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No-Sugar Added Cranberry Relish

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• Author: platesdaily
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

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Description

Elevate your holiday dining experience with this vibrant no-sugar added cranberry relish. Bursting with tart cranberries and zesty orange, this refreshing side dish is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. It’s not only a festive favorite but also a versatile addition to sandwiches and yogurt beyond the holidays. Enjoy this guilt-free indulgence that delights the palate without compromising on taste.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• Zest and juice of 1 medium orange
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Rinse the cranberries under cold water, discarding any squishy ones.
2. Grate the zest from the orange and squeeze its juice into a bowl.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, and ground cinnamon.
4. Mash some cranberries with a fork or potato masher while leaving others whole for texture.
5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow flavors to meld.
6. Stir before serving in your favorite dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No cook
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/2 cup (120g)
• Calories: 80
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg