Cranberry Orange Relish is a classic holiday favorite that brings a burst of bright flavors to any meal. Combining tart cranberries with zesty orange creates a refreshing twist on traditional cranberry sauce. Using Ocean Spray cranberries ensures a perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite.
This easy-to-make relish adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor to your holiday table. Whether you’re serving it alongside turkey or as a topping for desserts, it’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into how we can make this delicious Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish that will become a staple in our festive celebrations.
Ingredients
To make the perfect Cranberry Orange Relish using Ocean Spray cranberries, we choose fresh and vibrant ingredients that bring the ideal balance of tartness and sweetness. Here is everything we need to create this flavorful relish that complements any holiday meal beautifully.
Fresh Cranberries
We start with 2 cups of fresh Ocean Spray cranberries. Their firm texture and sharp flavor provide the essential tartness that defines this relish. Using fresh cranberries ensures a bright color and a natural zing that canned sauces cannot match.
Orange
The orange adds a zesty brightness and sweet aroma. We use:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Orange | 1 large | Peel and finely chop including white pith |
| Orange zest | 1 teaspoon | Finely grated zest from the same orange |
Including the whole peeled orange (pith and all) smooths out bitterness and intensifies the citrus flavor.
Sugar
Sugar balances the tartness of cranberries and brightens the dish’s flavor profile. Our recipe calls for:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
We suggest adjusting sugar slightly to taste depending on how tart your cranberries are.
Additional Flavorings (Optional)
To personalize our cranberry orange relish, we can include optional additions:
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon for warmth
- 1/4 teaspoon grated fresh ginger for slight spice
- 1 tablespoon chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
- 1 tablespoon orange liqueur for elevated citrus notes
These layers of flavor complement the tart cranberry and vibrant orange perfectly, giving us room to customize our recipe to different holiday tables.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our vibrant Cranberry Orange Relish Ocean Spray with ease and precision, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Below, we list the key tools that streamline the process from fresh ingredients to a beautifully presented dish.
Food Processor or Blender
A food processor or blender is crucial for finely chopping the cranberries and orange together quickly and evenly. This equipment helps us achieve the perfect texture—chunky yet well combined—essential for the classic relish consistency.
- Choose a food processor with a medium-sized bowl for ease of handling two cups of cranberries.
- A blender works too but pulse gently to avoid over-pureeing.
Mixing Bowl
We use a large mixing bowl to combine the processed cranberry and orange mixture with sugar and optional spices. This allows adequate room for stirring and adjusting the seasoning without spills.
- Opt for a bowl with at least a 4-quart capacity.
- Glass or stainless steel bowls maintain the fresh flavors without absorbing aromas.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements ensure balance in the tangy-sweet flavor of our Cranberry Orange Relish Ocean Spray. Use these for accuracy:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Measuring cups | For cranberries, sugar, and chopped orange quantity |
| Measuring spoons | For orange zest, cinnamon, and optional spices |
Serving Dish
Presentation enhances appetite. Choose a Serving Dish that complements the vivid red and orange hues of the relish.
- A clear glass bowl highlights the colors.
- A ceramic dish with a holiday motif adds a festive touch.
Having these essential tools prepares us to craft a delicious and visually appealing relish that will be a standout on any holiday table.
Prep Work
To craft the perfect Cranberry Orange Relish with Ocean Spray cranberries, we begin with essential prep steps that lay the foundation for vibrant flavor and texture.
Washing and Sorting Cranberries
We start by thoroughly rinsing 2 cups of fresh Ocean Spray cranberries under cold running water. This removes any dust or residue. After washing we spread the cranberries on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to air dry briefly. While drying we carefully inspect the berries to remove any stems, shriveled, or damaged cranberries, ensuring only the freshest, firm berries go into our relish.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Rinse cranberries | Use cold running water |
| Dry cranberries | Pat dry with towel, air dry briefly |
| Sort cranberries | Remove stems, shriveled or damaged berries |
Preparing the Orange
For our large orange, we focus on using the entire fruit including the pith to maximize zesty brightness and aroma in the relish. We begin by rinsing the orange under cold water and then patting it dry. Next we finely chop the whole peeled orange — white pith included — into small pieces. This ensures the orange infuses both sweet and slightly bitter notes that perfectly complement the tart cranberries. To amplify the citrus aroma, we grate 1 teaspoon of orange zest and set it aside for mixing later.
| Orange Prep Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Rinse | Wash under cold water, pat dry |
| Peel and chop | Remove peel, chop whole orange finely including pith |
| Zest | Grate orange peel, set aside |
By completing these prep stages carefully, we ensure our Cranberry Orange Relish will deliver that perfect balance of tart tang and citrus zest that brightens any holiday meal.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to create a vibrant and zesty Cranberry Orange Relish Ocean Spray that will brighten any holiday table.
Combining Ingredients
- Begin by thoroughly rinsing 2 cups of fresh Ocean Spray cranberries under cold water. Remove any stems or bruised berries.
- Peel and finely chop 1 large orange, including the white pith for its essential zest and bitterness.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cranberries and chopped orange.
- Add 3/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of grated orange zest.
- If desired, include optional flavorings such as:
- Ground cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon)
- Fresh grated ginger (1/2 teaspoon)
- Chopped nuts (1/4 cup)
- Orange liqueur (1 tablespoon)
Processing the Relish
- Place the combined mixture in a food processor or blender.
- Pulse gently to finely chop the cranberries and orange without pureeing. Aim for a chunky yet cohesive texture.
- Transfer the processed mixture back to the mixing bowl.
- Stir well to evenly distribute fruit and sugar, ensuring each bite bursts with balanced tartness and citrus brightness.
Adjusting Sweetness and Flavor
After mixing, taste the relish carefully. If the tartness is too strong or the citrus intensity is overpowering, adjust as follows:
| Ingredient | Suggested Amount Increase | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | Add in 1-2 tablespoon increments | Sweetens gently without masking flavors |
| Orange zest | Up to 1/2 teaspoon extra | Enhances aroma and brightness |
| Orange liqueur | Additional 1 teaspoon | Adds complexity and subtle sweetness |
| Ground cinnamon | Up to 1/4 teaspoon extra | Warms the flavor profile |
Stir well after each addition and re-taste. Once satisfied, chill the relish for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Our Cranberry Orange Relish Ocean Spray shines as a vibrant, flavorful addition to many dishes. Let’s explore how to best serve and store this festive delight.
Pairing Ideas
We love to serve this relish alongside roasted turkey or chicken to add a bright, tangy contrast to the savory flavors. It also pairs wonderfully with:
- Creamy cheeses such as brie or goat cheese on a cheese board
- Swirled into vanilla yogurt or ice cream for a refreshing dessert
- Alongside pork tenderloin or ham to complement their richness
- As a topping for toasted English muffins or warm scones for breakfast
- Mixed into salads with walnuts and spinach to add a citrusy punch
This relish’s zesty orange and tart cranberry blend make it incredibly versatile. Don’t hesitate to get creative and use it to brighten up your favorite dishes this holiday season.
Storage Tips
Proper storage ensures our Cranberry Orange Relish Ocean Spray stays fresh and flavorful. Here’s what we recommend:
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (in airtight container) | Up to 2 weeks | Keeps relish fresh, flavors meld and deepen |
| Freezer (sealed container) | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in refrigerator before serving |
We suggest using a glass or BPA-free plastic container with a tight lid to maintain freshness and avoid absorbing odors from other foods. Before serving chilled relish, stir gently to recombine any separated juices for an appealing texture.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Cranberry Orange Relish in advance enhances its vibrant flavors and gives us a stress-free holiday experience. Here are the best practices to store and preserve this festive treat.
How to Store Cranberry Orange Relish
To keep the bright flavors and signature texture of our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish intact, refrigeration is essential. After preparing the relish:
- Transfer it to an airtight container or a glass jar with a secure lid.
- Store it in the refrigerator immediately.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Maintain airtight seal to prevent dryness |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Use freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bags |
Refrigeration allows the cranberry orange flavors to meld beautifully, intensifying the zesty brightness and tartness. We recommend stirring the relish before serving if it has settled.
Freezing and Thawing Tips
For long-term storage, freezing the relish preserves its fresh quality without compromising taste.
- Portion the relish into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Leave some headspace to allow for expansion.
- Label containers with the date of freezing.
When ready to use:
- Thaw the relish overnight in the refrigerator.
- Gently stir to recombine any separated juices.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tip: Avoid refreezing thawed relish to maintain optimum flavor and texture.
By following these make-ahead instructions, we ensure our Cranberry Orange Relish Ocean Spray remains a bright, zesty, and essential part of our holiday celebrations.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Orange Relish recipe brings a fresh and vibrant twist to any holiday table. Using Ocean Spray cranberries ensures that perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, while the orange adds a bright, zesty flavor that’s hard to beat.
It’s a versatile dish that complements everything from turkey to breakfast favorites, making it a must-have in our festive lineup. Preparing it ahead of time not only saves stress but also deepens the flavors, giving us more moments to enjoy with family and friends.
With simple ingredients and easy steps, this relish is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition for us all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Cranberry Orange Relish?
You need fresh Ocean Spray cranberries (2 cups), one large orange (peeled and chopped including pith), 1 teaspoon grated orange zest, and 3/4 cup granulated sugar. Optional ingredients include ground cinnamon, fresh ginger, chopped nuts, or orange liqueur for extra flavor.
How do I achieve the perfect texture for the relish?
Use a food processor or blender to finely chop the cranberries and orange until you get a chunky but well-combined mixture. Avoid over-processing to keep some texture.
Can I prepare Cranberry Orange Relish ahead of time?
Yes, make it ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Chilling helps the flavors meld and makes holiday prep easier.
How should I store the relish for longer periods?
For longer storage, freeze the relish in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.
What dishes pair well with Cranberry Orange Relish?
This relish complements roasted turkey, pork tenderloin, creamy cheeses, vanilla yogurt, and even breakfast items like toasted English muffins.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the relish?
Yes, you can adjust the sugar quantity based on your taste and the natural tartness of the cranberries. Start with 3/4 cup sugar and add more if needed.
Why use the orange pith in the recipe?
The white pith adds zesty brightness and a distinctive aroma that enhances the overall flavor of the relish without making it bitter.
What equipment is essential for making this relish?
A food processor or blender, a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, and an attractive serving dish are essential for preparing and presenting the relish effectively.