Quick and Easy Cranberry Orange Relish – Made in 10 Minutes 2025
A Modern Twist on a Timeless Classic
Every year as the holidays approach, kitchens across the world are filled with the comforting scents of cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. Among the most traditional accompaniments to a festive meal is cranberry sauce. But for those seeking a fresh, vibrant alternative to the jellied or cooked versions, Cranberry Orange Relish offers a bright, zesty, no-cook solution that’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve.
This relish is a refreshing, slightly tart condiment made from raw cranberries, whole oranges (peel included), and just the right amount of sweetness. It takes minutes to make, requires zero cooking, and the result is a condiment that elevates everything it touches—from turkey and ham to breakfast oatmeal and cheese boards.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ No Cooking Required
- ✅ Vibrant Color and Fresh Flavor
- ✅ Ready in 10 Minutes
- ✅ Naturally Gluten-Free and Vegan
- ✅ Perfect for Make-Ahead Meals
- ✅ Holiday Table Showstopper
This recipe doesn’t just taste great—it looks beautiful too. The vivid ruby red of cranberries paired with the sun-kissed orange peel creates a jewel-toned relish that stands out on any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for only a few simple ingredients. Choose high-quality, fresh produce for the best results.
Basic Ingredients:
- Fresh Cranberries – 1 (12 oz) bag, rinsed and drained
- Large Navel Orange – 1 whole (with peel), quartered and seeds removed
- Granulated Sugar – ¾ to 1 cup, depending on your preferred sweetness
Optional Add-ins:
- Ground Cinnamon – ½ teaspoon for warmth
- Ground Cloves – ¼ teaspoon for spice
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans – ¼ cup for texture
- Crushed Pineapple – ¼ cup for tropical sweetness
- Honey or Maple Syrup – as an alternative sweetener
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Wash and Prep the Orange
Thoroughly rinse the orange under warm water to remove any wax or residue. Since you’ll be using the peel, choose organic if possible. Cut the orange into quarters and remove any seeds. The peel gives the relish its zesty complexity, but if you’re sensitive to bitterness, you may use only half the peel or zest it instead.
Step 2: Combine in Food Processor
Add the orange quarters to the food processor first. Then pour in the cranberries. Pulse the mixture several times until everything is finely chopped but not mushy. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even consistency. You want a chunky relish—not a purée.
Step 3: Sweeten and Spice
Transfer the chopped mixture to a medium-sized bowl. Stir in the sugar gradually. Start with ¾ cup, then taste and add more if needed. At this point, you can also stir in optional spices like cinnamon or cloves for holiday warmth.
Step 4: Rest and Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the relish for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, deepening the overall taste and making the relish more cohesive.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
This dish is best served cold or at room temperature. Spoon it onto your Thanksgiving turkey, spread it over toast, or use it as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or soft cheese like brie. The possibilities are endless.
Creative Ways to Use Cranberry Orange Relish
Beyond the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, this versatile relish can enhance many meals and snacks throughout the year.
1. Sandwich Spread
Add a dollop to leftover turkey sandwiches or grilled cheese for a sweet-tart contrast.
2. Cheese Board Companion
Pair it with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, or hard cheeses like sharp cheddar.
3. Breakfast Booster
Mix it into oatmeal, spoon it over Greek yogurt, or layer it in parfaits.
4. Dessert Garnish
Serve it over vanilla ice cream or as a filling for hand pies.
5. Glaze for Meats
Mix with a bit of Dijon mustard and use it as a glaze for pork loin or chicken.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh Longer
Refrigeration
Place the relish in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 10 days, and the flavor tends to improve after the first day.
Freezing
Yes, this relish can be frozen! Transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top for expansion. It will keep for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before using.
Nutritional Information (Per ¼ Cup Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80–90 |
| Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Sugar | 18g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Vitamin C | 15% Daily Value |
| Fat, Sodium, Protein | 0g |
Note: Nutrition may vary based on added ingredients and sugar substitutions.
Substitutions and Variations
- Sugar Alternatives: Use honey, maple syrup, coconut sugar, or monk fruit sweetener.
- Citrus Options: Swap the orange for blood orange or tangerine for a unique twist.
- Spiced Relish: Add fresh grated ginger or a pinch of nutmeg for warming depth.
- Fruit Add-ins: Mix in pomegranate arils, apples, or dried cranberries for complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this relish without sugar?
Yes! You can use honey, maple syrup, or a zero-calorie sweetener. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
2. Is it necessary to use the orange peel?
The peel gives the relish a bold citrus punch, but if you find it bitter, you can use just the zest and flesh.
3. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely. Just thaw them completely and drain any extra liquid before using.
4. How far in advance can I prepare this?
Ideally, make it 1–2 days ahead to allow the flavors to meld. It’s perfect for meal prep!
5. Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
A blender can work, but it’s more likely to over-process. Use pulse mode and work in small batches.
6. Is this relish suitable for canning?
No, because it’s not cooked. For long-term shelf storage, a cooked and properly processed version would be safer.
7. What meats pair best with this relish?
Roast turkey, chicken, pork tenderloin, glazed ham, and even duck or venison.
Tips for Hosting: Make This a Holiday Favorite
Hosting a holiday dinner? This relish is a must-have on your menu. Here are a few pro tips:
- Make it the day before to save time.
- Double the recipe—it disappears fast!
- Serve in a glass bowl to showcase the beautiful color.
- Pair with a soft cheese platter as an appetizer.
- Use leftovers for a next-day brunch board.
Why This Cranberry Orange Relish Is Superior to Cooked Sauces
| Feature | No-Cook Relish | Cooked Sauce |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Freshness | ✅ Bright, zesty | ❌ Often muted |
| Prep Time | ✅ 10 mins | ❌ 30–40 mins |
| Texture | ✅ Crisp chunks | ❌ Soft, gelled |
| Make-Ahead Friendly | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Visual Appeal | ✅ Bold & raw | ❌ Less vibrant |
| Nutrient Retention | ✅ More Vitamin C | ❌ Reduced |
Conclusion: A Modern Classic for Every Table
This Cranberry Orange Relish isn’t just another side dish—it’s a showstopper that brings color, contrast, and flavor to your table. With no cooking, minimal ingredients, and endless versatility, it’s easy to see why this fresh twist on a holiday favorite has become a year-round staple in so many homes.
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving something tangy and bright, this relish has you covered.
