We’ve always loved how the Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe captures the essence of fall flavors with its tart cranberries and bright citrus notes. This simple side dish draws from traditional New England roots where fresh berries meet zesty oranges for a refreshing twist that elevates any meal.
It’s no wonder this relish has become a holiday favorite in our kitchens—quick to prepare and bursting with natural goodness. We’re excited to share our version that keeps things easy yet delicious so you can make it your own.
Ingredients
In our version of the Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish recipe, we focus on simple, high-quality ingredients that capture the tart and zesty essence of this New England classic. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes to ensure your relish turns out vibrant and flavorful.
- Fresh cranberries: 12 ounces (one bag of Ocean Spray cranberries), washed and sorted to remove any stems or damaged berries – these form the base and provide that signature tartness.
- Oranges: 2 large navel oranges, zested and juiced – we recommend using fresh, organic ones for the brightest citrus flavor that balances the cranberries perfectly.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, measured precisely to sweeten the mix and enhance the natural tartness without overwhelming the fruit.
- Walnuts (optional): ½ cup, chopped coarsely – add these for a nutty crunch if you want to elevate the texture, toasting them lightly for extra depth.
- Ground cinnamon: ½ teaspoon, for a warm spice note that ties into the fall-inspired theme of this relish.
This selection highlights the natural, refreshing ingredients that make Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish a holiday favorite in our kitchen.
Equipment Needed
After selecting our high-quality ingredients for the Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish, we need the right tools to prepare this vibrant, tangy dish efficiently. Gathering the proper equipment ensures smooth steps, from zesting oranges to blending fresh cranberries, allowing us to capture the essence of this holiday favorite with minimal effort.
Here’s a curated list of essential equipment. We’ve organized it by category for clarity, emphasizing key items that make the process straightforward and enjoyable:
- Food Processor or Blender: Essential for finely chopping cranberries and oranges to achieve the relish’s signature texture. We recommend a 7-cup capacity model for even results.
- Zester or Microplane: Crucial for obtaining fresh orange zest, which adds a zesty, aromatic burst to our relish. Opt for a stainless steel version for precision and ease.
- Citrus Juicer or Reamer: This tool helps extract juice from navel oranges quickly, ensuring we get the maximum flavor without seeds or pulp interference.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to balancing the tartness and sweetness—use a set with both dry and liquid options for versatility.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife paired with a sturdy cutting board allows us to chop walnuts or other add-ins safely and efficiently.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients, this should hold at least 4 quarts to prevent spills while we stir in sugar and spices.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Perfect for mixing and folding components gently, preserving the relish’s fresh, chunky consistency.
For quick reference, here’s a table comparing recommended equipment capacities and their primary uses, based on standard kitchen tools:
| Equipment Item | Recommended Capacity/Size | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|
| Food Processor | 7 cups | Chopping cranberries and fruits |
| Zester | 10-12 inches long | Zesting oranges |
| Citrus Juicer | Manual or electric | Extracting orange juice |
| Measuring Cups | 1-cup and 2-cup sets | Measuring sugar and liquids |
| Knife | 8-inch blade | Chopping nuts or zesting prep |
| Mixing Bowl | 4 quarts | Combining and stirring |
| Spatula | Silicone, heat-resistant | Mixing without damaging tools |
With these tools in hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation process, making our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish recipe both effortless and delightful.
Directions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through crafting our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish with straightforward steps that highlight its vibrant flavors and textures.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we blend the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges, let’s prepare everything for optimal results. Start by rinsing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries under cold water to remove any impurities, then pat them dry with a paper towel for a clean, crisp base. Next, take 2 large navel oranges, zest them using a zester to yield about 2 tablespoons of fragrant zest that adds a citrusy aroma, and juice them to get approximately ½ cup of fresh juice—be sure to strain out any seeds for a smooth finish. If you’re adding texture, chop ½ cup of walnuts into fine pieces using a knife on a cutting board. Finally, measure out 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon to enhance the sweetness and warmth, ensuring all components are ready for a harmonious blend that captures the essence of fall.
Cook the Relish
With our ingredients prepped, we now simmer the mixture to meld the flavors into a cohesive, irresistible relish. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the rinsed cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, sugar, and cinnamon, stirring constantly with a spatula until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble—this should take about 5-7 minutes, allowing the cranberries to soften and release their tart juices for a glossy, vibrant sauce. If using walnuts, stir them in during the last minute to keep their crunch intact. Once the relish reaches a gentle boil and the cranberries start to pop, remove it from the heat to prevent overcooking, resulting in a warm, aromatic blend that fills the kitchen with the invigorating scent of citrus and spice.
Assemble and Chill
To finalize our relish, we assemble the components and let chilling work its magic for enhanced flavors. Transfer the warm relish mixture to a large mixing bowl and give it a final stir to ensure even distribution, tasting for balance—if it needs more zing, add a splash of extra orange juice. For added visual appeal and texture, fold in the chopped walnuts if desired. Pour the relish into an airtight container, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to intensify and the mixture to thicken, creating a refreshing, tangy condiment that’s perfect for holiday tables with its bright red hue and burst of citrusy freshness.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the greatest advantages of our Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish is its ability to be prepared in advance, letting the tart cranberries and zesty oranges develop even more depth of flavor over time. This makes it ideal for holiday gatherings, where make-ahead convenience saves time and ensures a fresh, vibrant relish ready to serve.
Why Make Ahead?
Making this relish ahead enhances its refreshing citrusy freshness and allows the natural ingredients to harmonize, creating a more complex taste profile. We recommend preparing it 1 to 3 days in advance for optimal results, as the chilling process intensifies the bright red hue and glossy texture.
Step-by-Step Make-Ahead Guide
Follow these simple steps to prepare and store your Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish safely:
- Prepare the Relish Completely: After following the step-by-step directions in the previous section, cook the mixture until it reaches the desired glossy consistency. Let it cool to room temperature in the large mixing bowl to prevent condensation.
- Transfer and Chill: Spoon the cooled relish into an airtight container, such as a glass jar or plastic storage container. Cover tightly and refrigerate immediately to preserve the tart cranberry and zesty orange notes.
- Store Properly: Place the container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. This step ensures the relish maintains its fresh texture and prevents bacterial growth.
- Check and Refresh: Before serving, give the relish a gentle stir with a spatula to recombine any settled ingredients. If needed, adjust flavors by adding a pinch of ground cinnamon for extra warmth.
Storage Tips and Duration
For make-ahead success, proper storage is key. Here’s a quick overview of storage options in the following table:
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 7 days | Ideal for short-term use; flavors peak after 1-2 days. Keep covered to retain moisture. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers; thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. Avoid refreezing to maintain texture. |
Conclusion
We’ve loved bringing this Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish into our holiday traditions
as it’s a simple way to add vibrant flavors to any gathering.
It’s not just about the recipe—it’s about creating memorable moments with fresh, natural ingredients that elevate your table.
Give it a try and make it your own—we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your seasonal lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish?
Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish is a fresh, fall-inspired condiment from New England traditions, blending tart cranberries with zesty oranges for a refreshing holiday favorite. It’s simple to make with natural ingredients, offering a vibrant flavor that’s perfect for gatherings.
What ingredients are needed for the Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish Recipe?
You’ll need 12 ounces of fresh cranberries, 2 large navel oranges (zested and juiced), 1 cup of granulated sugar, optional ½ cup chopped walnuts, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. These high-quality ingredients create a balanced, tangy-sweet relish that’s easy to customize.
What equipment is required to make Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish?
Essential tools include a food processor or blender, a zester, citrus juicer, measuring cups and spoons, a knife and cutting board, a large mixing bowl, and a spatula or wooden spoon. This setup ensures efficient prep for a smooth cooking experience.
How do you prepare Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish?
Start by prepping ingredients: zest and juice oranges, then pulse cranberries in a food processor. Mix with sugar, optional walnuts, and cinnamon in a bowl. Combine everything, chill for flavors to meld, and serve. The whole process takes about 15-20 minutes plus chilling time.
Can you make Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for advance prep. Make it 1 to 3 days ahead to enhance flavors. Prepare as directed, transfer to an airtight container, chill in the fridge, and stir before serving. This makes it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
How should you store Ocean Spray Cranberry Orange Relish?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before use. Proper storage keeps the relish fresh and maintains its vibrant taste for your meals.