We’ve always been fans of our Cranberry Orange Relish using Ocean Spray cranberries, a zesty twist on a holiday classic that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. This vibrant relish combines tart cranberries with bright orange notes, making it a staple for festive gatherings.
Originating from American traditions, it’s a simple way to elevate your table with fresh, seasonal ingredients. We love how Ocean Spray’s quality cranberries bring out the best in this easy recipe.
Ingredients
In our experience crafting this classic Cranberry Orange Relish with Ocean Spray cranberries, we’ve found that using high-quality, fresh ingredients makes all the difference in achieving that perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are typically prepared and used, with specific measurements and prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- 12 oz bag of Ocean Spray Fresh Cranberries: Rinse thoroughly under cold water and drain; these form the base of our relish and provide that signature tartness.
- 1 large orange: Zest the entire orange first to yield about 1 tablespoon of zest, then juice it to get ¼ cup; the zest adds bright citrus notes, while the juice enhances moisture and flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Measured precisely; we dissolve this gradually to balance the cranberries’ natural acidity and create a smooth texture.
- ¼ cup water: Added as needed during cooking; this helps in simmering the mixture without altering the fresh taste.
- Optional add-ins: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans: Toast lightly if desired for added crunch; incorporate these toward the end for a nutty contrast that elevates the relish for holiday gatherings.
| Servings | Ocean Spray Cranberries (oz) | Orange (quantity) | Granulated Sugar (cups) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 12 | 1 | 1 |
| 8 | 24 | 2 | 2 |
| 12 | 36 | 3 | 3 |
Equipment Needed
We find that having the right tools makes preparing our Cranberry Orange Relish with Ocean Spray cranberries straightforward and efficient, ensuring a smooth process from zesting oranges to blending fresh flavors.
Tools for Preparation
To craft our Cranberry Orange Relish using high-quality Ocean Spray cranberries, we recommend these essential tools. Each item helps achieve the perfect texture and zest without complications.
- Food Processor or Blender: This is crucial for finely chopping the 12 oz of Ocean Spray Fresh Cranberries and orange segments, creating a smooth yet textured relish in just minutes.
- Zester or Microplane: We rely on this tool to extract fresh zest from one large orange, adding that vibrant, aromatic essence that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp knife paired with a sturdy cutting board allows us to precisely segment the orange and handle any optional add-ins like chopped walnuts, ensuring safety and accuracy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: These are indispensable for accurately measuring ingredients such as one cup of granulated sugar and a quarter cup of water, helping us maintain the ideal balance of tart and sweet.
- Large Mixing Bowl: We use this to combine all elements after processing, making it easy to mix and adjust flavors before serving our festive relish.
Instructions
We love how this Cranberry Orange Relish using Ocean Spray cranberries transforms simple ingredients into a zesty, festive delight that elevates any holiday table. Let’s guide you through the straightforward steps to create this tart-sweet masterpiece.
Prep
Before we dive into mixing, preparing our ingredients ensures everything comes together smoothly for the freshest flavors. Start by rinsing 12 oz of Ocean Spray Fresh Cranberries under cold water to remove any debris, then pat them dry with a paper towel—we aim for that vibrant, plump texture that pops with tartness.
Next, take one large orange and zest it using a zester or microplane to yield about 1 tablespoon of fine zest, capturing its bright, citrusy aroma that balances the cranberries’ acidity. Juice the same orange to get approximately ¼ cup of fresh juice, making sure to strain out any seeds for a smooth finish.
If you’re adding optional texture like chopped walnuts or pecans, measure out ½ cup and roughly chop them on a cutting board with a sharp knife—these add a satisfying crunch that contrasts the relish’s soft consistency.
Assemble
Now that our ingredients are prepped, we assemble the relish by combining them in a large mixing bowl or directly in a saucepan for cooking. Add the rinsed Ocean Spray Fresh Cranberries, the 1 tablespoon of orange zest, ¼ cup of fresh orange juice, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and ¼ cup of water to the saucepan.
Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then bring it to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and release their juices— you’ll notice the relish thickening into a glossy, jewel-toned sauce with a irresistible tangy-sweet scent that fills the kitchen.
Once assembled, remove from heat and let it cool completely in the mixing bowl before stirring in the optional chopped nuts for added crunch. This step ensures the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a relish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Cranberry Orange Relish made with Ocean Spray cranberries is its flexibility for holiday prep—allowing flavors to meld and intensify over time. We recommend making this relish up to several days in advance to save time on busy occasions, ensuring a fresh, zesty burst of tart cranberries and sweet orange that elevates your festive table effortlessly.
Preparation and Storage Steps
To make ahead effectively, follow these simple steps after completing the cooking and cooling process outlined in our instructions:
- Cool Completely: Let the relish cool to room temperature on the counter for about 30 minutes. This step prevents condensation, which could dilute the vibrant flavors of the Ocean Spray cranberries and orange zest.
- Transfer to Airtight Container: Spoon the relish into a clean, airtight glass jar or container. For optimal freshness, use one with a tight-sealing lid to preserve the glossy texture and aromatic essence.
- Refrigerate Immediately: Store the container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. The relish will keep for up to 7 days, allowing the tart-sweet balance to deepen while maintaining its bright, jewel-like appearance.
Freezing for Longer Storage
If you’re planning further ahead, freezing is a smart option. Here’s how we handle it:
- Portion and Freeze: Divide the cooled relish into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months to lock in the fresh, seasonal taste of Ocean Spray cranberries.
- Thawing Tips: When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Stir gently to restore the smooth consistency, and if needed, bring to room temperature for 15–20 minutes to enhance the citrusy aroma before serving.
By preparing our Cranberry Orange Relish in advance, you’ll enjoy stress-free holiday meals with minimal last-minute effort, while the flavors continue to shine.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this cranberry orange relish recipe with you, as it’s a timeless favorite that brings holiday magic to any table. Our go-to with Ocean Spray cranberries delivers that perfect zesty-sweet balance, making meals memorable and effortless.
Whether you’re prepping ahead or serving fresh, it’s a versatile staple we’ll always reach for during festive seasons. Dive in and make it your own tradition—your guests will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cranberry Orange Relish?
Cranberry Orange Relish is a zesty, festive sauce made from fresh cranberries, orange zest, and juice, sweetened with sugar. It’s a classic American holiday favorite that adds a tart-sweet flavor to meals, often using high-quality Ocean Spray cranberries for the best taste. This relish enhances turkey, desserts, or cheese boards with its vibrant, seasonal appeal.
What ingredients are needed for Cranberry Orange Relish?
You’ll need 12 oz of Ocean Spray fresh cranberries, one large orange (for zest and juice), one cup of granulated sugar, and a quarter cup of water. Optional add-ins like chopped walnuts or pecans add texture. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures a perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors for this easy recipe.
How do I prepare Cranberry Orange Relish?
Start by rinsing 12 oz cranberries and zesting/juicing one orange. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan, stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves and cranberries burst, about 10-15 minutes. Cool the mixture, then add optional nuts. This simple process creates a glossy, flavorful relish ready to elevate your holiday meals.
Can I make Cranberry Orange Relish ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for advance prep. Make it several days before your event to let flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge and stir to restore texture, making holiday cooking stress-free.
How should I store Cranberry Orange Relish?
After cooling, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days to maintain freshness and enhance flavors. For extended storage, freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a quick stir before serving to keep the texture perfect.
What equipment do I need for Cranberry Orange Relish?
You’ll need a food processor or blender for chopping cranberries and oranges, a zester or microplane for orange zest, a knife and cutting board for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a large mixing bowl and saucepan for cooking. These tools make the process efficient and help achieve the ideal texture and flavor.