grandma’s cranberry salad

Introduction:

Cranberry relish is a classic side dish that adds a burst of fresh, zesty flavor to holiday feasts. Unlike traditional cooked cranberry sauce, this relish is typically made raw, allowing the ingredients to retain their natural brightness and crunch. With a combination of fresh cranberries, orange, and sometimes apples or nuts, this relish is easy to prepare, requiring only a food processor to blend the flavors. It’s a delightful accompaniment to turkey, ham, or any festive spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries, rinsed
• 1 medium navel orange, unpeeled, cut into wedges
• 1 large apple (Granny Smith or another tart variety), cored and quartered
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Wash the cranberries and discard any soft or damaged ones.
   • Cut the orange (leave the peel on for added zest) and apple into chunks for easy processing.
2. Combine in Food Processor:
   • Place the cranberries, orange wedges, apple, and sugar in a food processor.
   • Pulse until everything is finely chopped and combined but not pureed. You want a slightly coarse texture.
3. Add Optional Ingredients:
   • If desired, add ground cinnamon for a warm spice note and pulse to incorporate.
   • Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor.
4. Chill and Marinate:
   • Transfer the relish to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the relish to firm up.
5. Serve:
   • Before serving, give the relish a quick stir. Taste and adjust the sweetness, adding more sugar if necessary.

Conclusion:

This cranberry relish is a fresh and vibrant alternative to traditional cranberry sauce, providing a delicious balance of tart, sweet, and citrusy flavors. Simple to make and visually striking, it’s a perfect side for holiday meals, adding a refreshing contrast to richer dishes. Enjoy this delightful condiment with turkey, roasted meats, or as a spread on holiday sandwiches!

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