Cranberry orange relish is a classic holiday favorite that brings a burst of bright flavors to any meal. This Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish recipe combines tart cranberries with zesty orange for a refreshing twist on traditional cranberry sauce. It’s simple to make and adds a vibrant touch to your holiday table.
We love how this relish balances sweet and tangy notes, making it perfect alongside turkey or as a topping for desserts. Plus, using fresh ingredients means it’s healthier and more flavorful than store-bought options. Whether you’re hosting a festive feast or just want to brighten up your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
To create our vibrant Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish, we carefully select fresh and flavorful ingredients that highlight the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Below are the essential components that bring this relish to life.
Fresh Cranberries
We use Fresh Cranberries as the foundation for this relish, providing that unmistakable bright tartness and vibrant color. Look for firm, plump berries that are free from soft spots or blemishes to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Cranberries | 12 oz (about 3 cups) | Rinse and remove any stems or damaged berries |
Oranges
The oranges add a natural citrus zing and a touch of sweetness to complement the cranberries. We prefer using navel oranges for their juicy, seedless quality and bright flavor. For extra zest, we include both the fresh orange segments and the grated zest.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Navel Oranges | 2 medium | Peeled, segmented, and deseeded |
| Orange Zest | Zest of 1 orange | Grated finely for maximum aroma |
Sugar
Sugar balances the tart cranberries and bold orange flavor, rounding out the taste with just the right amount of sweetness. We recommend using granulated white sugar for its clean sweetness and easy dissolving properties.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated Sugar | 3/4 cup | Adjust to taste for sweetness |
Optional Add-ins
To customize our cranberry orange relish and enhance its texture and flavor complexity, we like to add a few optional ingredients. These bring delightful contrasts and additional aroma:
- Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) for crunch
- Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon) for warmth and spice
- Fresh ginger (1 teaspoon grated) for a hint of zing
- Diced apple (1 small) for added sweetness and texture
Including these optional add-ins allows us to tailor the relish to our personal preferences or festive themes seamlessly.
Equipment Needed
To create our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish with ease and precision, having the right tools is essential. Below is a detailed list of the equipment we recommend for this recipe along with their purpose to ensure the best results.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Food processor | To finely chop and blend cranberries and oranges quickly and evenly |
| Measuring cups | Accurate measurement of sugar and optional add-ins |
| Sharp paring knife | For segmenting and dicing the orange and optional apples |
| Cutting board | Provides a stable surface for prepping fruits |
| Mixing bowl | To combine all ingredients before chilling |
| Wooden spoon or silicone spatula | For mixing the relish gently without bruising the fruit |
| Fine mesh strainer (optional) | To rinse cranberries thoroughly before use |
| Storage container with lid | For refrigerating the relish to develop flavor overnight |
Key Equipment Notes:
- We rely heavily on the food processor to create that signature finely textured relish that perfectly balances the tart cranberries and zesty orange.
- Using a sharp paring knife allows us to cleanly remove orange pith and segment the fruit for optimal flavor without bitterness.
- The mixing bowl should be large enough to accommodate the combined volume of ingredients when blending to prevent spilling.
By preparing these essential tools ahead of time, we streamline the process, letting the fresh ingredients shine and ensuring our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish is as vibrant and flavorful as possible.
Prep Work
To create the perfect Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish, precise prep work is essential. Properly preparing the ingredients ensures vibrant flavors and the ideal texture in our relish.
Washing and Sorting Cranberries
We start by thoroughly washing fresh cranberries under cold running water to remove any debris or dust. After rinsing, we sort through the cranberries carefully, discarding any that are soft, damaged, or discolored. This step guarantees that only the freshest, firm cranberries make it into our relish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Rinse cranberries | Cold running water |
| Sort cranberries | Remove soft or damaged berries |
| Drain | Use colander to remove excess water |
Preparing the Oranges
Next, we prepare the navel oranges, the citrus star of our relish. Begin by rinsing the oranges to eliminate any surface residue. Using a sharp paring knife, we segment the oranges, removing the peel, pith, and seeds carefully to avoid bitterness. For maximum flavor, we cut the orange segments into small pieces that will blend seamlessly with the cranberries. If we prefer a zestier bite, lightly zesting the peel before segmenting adds a delightful citrus aroma.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Rinse oranges | Cold water rinse |
| Zest (optional) | Use fine grater, avoid white pith |
| Segment oranges | Remove peel, pith, and seeds |
| Chop segments | Small bite-sized pieces |
Proper prep creates a balanced texture and flavor harmony in our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish. These foundational steps set us up for a rich, tangy, and sweet holiday dish.
Instructions
Let’s walk through the step-by-step process to create our vibrant Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish. Following precise techniques ensures the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Combining Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the freshly washed and sorted fresh cranberries — exactly 12 ounces.
- Carefully segment 2 medium navel oranges, removing seeds and white pith for a smooth citrus note. Add the orange segments to the bowl.
- If using, incorporate ½ cup granulated sugar next to complement the natural tartness.
- Optional add-ins such as ¼ cup chopped nuts, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, or 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger can be folded in now to enhance aroma and texture.
“Combining ingredients properly is the foundation of any great relish.”
Blending or Processing
- Transfer the combined mixture to a food processor.
- Pulse 6 to 8 times until the textures resemble coarse relish — chunky yet well incorporated. Do not over-process; we want a balance between bits and smoothness.
- Carefully check the consistency; ensure the cranberries and orange are evenly distributed for an appealing look and flavor.
| Step | Action | Desired Texture |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Transfer to food processor | Prep for pulsing |
| 2 | Pulse 6-8 times | Coarse, chunky, well combined |
| 3 | Visual check | Evenly distributed fruit pieces |
Adjusting Sweetness
- Taste the relish for sweetness balance.
- Gradually sprinkle in more sugar 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a spoon.
- After each addition, taste to avoid oversweetening.
- Once satisfied, chill the relish for at least 1 hour to let flavors meld perfectly.
“Adjust sweetness gradually to maintain the vibrant, tart profile distinctive of our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish.”
We now have a beautifully textured relish bursting with zesty orange and tangy cranberry notes, ready to enhance any meal or holiday spread.
Directions for Serving
Now that our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish is perfectly prepared, let’s explore how to serve it to maximize its bright, tangy flavors and vibrant texture.
Serving Suggestions
The Cranberry Orange Relish pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, offering a burst of holiday cheer or everyday freshness. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve it:
- With Roasted Turkey or Chicken: Spoon a generous dollop on warm poultry for a classic pairing.
- As a Sandwich Spread: Layer it on turkey or ham sandwiches to add a zesty, fruity crunch.
- Alongside Cream Cheese: Serve it as a vibrant topping on a cream cheese spread with crackers for a festive appetizer.
- On Desserts: Use it as a topping for cheesecake, vanilla ice cream, or pound cake to add a tart contrast.
- Mixed in Yogurt or Oatmeal: Stir a small amount into your morning bowl for a refreshing twist.
| Dish Type | Serving Method | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Poultry | Dollop on warm meat | Enhances savory richness |
| Sandwich | Spread between bread layers | Adds texture and acidity |
| Appetizer | Spoon over cream cheese with crackers | Offers fresh fruitiness |
| Dessert | Topping for cheesecake or ice cream | Introduces bright tartness |
| Breakfast | Mixed into yogurt or oatmeal | Boosts natural sweetness |
Storage Tips
To maintain the bright flavors and refreshing texture of our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish, proper storage is essential:
- Refrigerate Promptly: Store the relish in an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of preparation.
- Shelf Life: It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when properly sealed.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, freeze the relish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use a clean spoon each time to keep the relish fresh and prevent spoilage.
- Flavor Enhancement: Let the relish sit for several hours or overnight in the fridge to allow flavors to meld and deepen.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight before use |
By following these serving and storage guidelines, we ensure our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish remains a delicious and vibrant complement to any meal or festive occasion.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To maximize flavor and convenience, making Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish ahead of time is an excellent strategy. Here’s how we prepare and store this vibrant relish to ensure it tastes fresh and tangy when served.
Step 1: Prepare the Relish in Advance
After we combine fresh cranberries, segmented navel oranges, and sugar along with any optional add-ins, we process the mixture just until it reaches a coarse, well-combined texture. Avoid over-blending to preserve the relish’s slightly chunky consistency.
Step 2: Refrigerate to Develop Flavors
Once prepared, transfer the relish to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This resting period allows the tart cranberries and zesty oranges to meld beautifully, intensifying the overall taste.
Step 3: Optimal Make-Ahead Window
The relish stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks when stored properly. This makes it perfect for holiday meal planning or preparing meals in advance.
| Storage Method | Duration | Container Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 2 weeks | Airtight container | Ensures freshness and flavor |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Freezer-safe container | For long-term storage, thaw in fridge overnight |
Step 4: Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If we want to prepare the relish well ahead, freezing is a great option. Use a freezer-safe container to store the relish for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, stirring gently before serving.
Important Tips:
- Always use clean utensils to prevent cross-contamination while scooping relish.
- Do not add extra sugar or liquids during storage as it can alter the desired texture and tartness.
- Allow the relish to come to refrigerator temperature before serving for the best tasting experience.
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we ensure our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish remains fresh, flavorful, and ready to enhance any holiday table or everyday meal.
Conclusion
Making Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish is a simple way to add a burst of fresh flavor to any meal. With just a few quality ingredients and easy steps, we can create a vibrant relish that’s both tangy and sweet.
Whether we’re serving it alongside turkey or mixing it into breakfast, this relish brings a bright, festive touch to our table. Plus, its versatility and make-ahead convenience make it a go-to recipe for holidays and everyday meals alike.
By following the tips and techniques we’ve shared, we ensure every batch turns out delicious and perfectly balanced. Let’s enjoy this classic relish as a flavorful highlight in our culinary traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cranberry orange relish?
Cranberry orange relish is a classic holiday condiment combining tart fresh cranberries and zesty navel oranges with sugar. It offers a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with turkey, desserts, and more.
Why use fresh ingredients instead of store-bought relish?
Fresh ingredients provide superior flavor, texture, and health benefits. Homemade relish uses fresh cranberries and oranges, avoiding preservatives and artificial additives found in store-bought versions.
What are the key ingredients needed for cranberry orange relish?
The essential ingredients are fresh cranberries, navel oranges, and granulated sugar. Optional add-ins include chopped nuts, cinnamon, fresh ginger, and diced apple for added flavor and texture.
What equipment do I need to make this relish?
You’ll need a food processor to chop ingredients, measuring cups for accuracy, a sharp paring knife to segment the oranges, and a mixing bowl to combine everything.
How should I prepare the cranberries and oranges?
Rinse and sort the cranberries to remove any bad berries. Rinse the oranges, segment them, and optionally zest the peel to enhance flavor.
How do I make cranberry orange relish?
Combine rinsed cranberries, segmented oranges, sugar, and any optional extras in a food processor. Pulse to a coarse mixture, adjusting sugar gradually to balance sweetness without overpowering tartness.
What are some ways to serve cranberry orange relish?
Serve it alongside roasted turkey or chicken, as a sandwich spread, with cream cheese, as a topping for cheesecake or ice cream, or stirred into yogurt or oatmeal.
How should I store cranberry orange relish?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Always avoid cross-contamination.
Can I make cranberry orange relish ahead of time?
Yes, making it a day or more in advance improves flavor. Refrigerate to let flavors meld, and ensure proper storage in airtight containers for freshness.
How long does cranberry orange relish last in the fridge?
When properly stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 2 weeks refrigerated. Freezing can extend its life to 3 months.