A serving of bright cranberry orange relish in a white bowl on marble with orange zest and honey drizzle — fresh and vibrant Thanksgiving side dish
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Cranberry Orange Relish | Fresh & Tangy Thanksgiving Side

BySavannah Ray
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Bright cranberry orange relish in a white bowl on marble with orange zest and honey drizzle — fresh and vibrant Thanksgiving side dish

Some sides bring balance; this one brings brilliance.
This Cranberry Orange Relish is a burst of freshness amid the cozy holiday feast — tangy, zesty, and naturally beautiful.

Made with just a few ingredients, it brightens every plate it touches. The citrusy aroma, ruby-red color, and perfect blend of tart and sweet make it the dish your guests won’t stop talking about.

It’s quick, vibrant, and unforgettable — the flavor that wakes up Thanksgiving.

A serving of bright cranberry orange relish in a white bowl on marble with orange zest and honey drizzle — fresh and vibrant Thanksgiving side dish

Cranberry Orange Relish

A refreshing holiday side made with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a touch of honey for natural sweetness. Bright, tangy, and bursting with color.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Dessert, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Holiday
Servings 8

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Citrus zester
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 large orange zest + segments
  • ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp orange juice optional for consistency
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional garnish: extra zest or chopped mint

Instructions
 

Blend:

  • In a food processor, pulse cranberries, orange segments, zest, and honey until finely chopped (not puréed).

Taste & Adjust:

  • Add more honey or orange juice if desired for sweetness or texture.

Chill:

  • Transfer to a serving bowl and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.

Serve:

  • Garnish with orange zest or mint for a bright finish.

Notes

💡 Quick Tip: Make this relish a day ahead — it gets even better as the flavors mingle overnight.

🧊 Storage: Keeps fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Keyword bright holiday recipes, citrus cranberry recipe, cranberry orange relish, fresh cranberry sauce, holiday table sides, no-cook cranberry relish, thanksgiving side dish

🌿 Tips & Variations

  • Extra Brightness: Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for extra citrus sparkle.
  • Nutty Twist: Stir in a handful of toasted pecans before serving for texture.
  • Spiced Note: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for warmth.
  • Sweet Swap: Replace honey with agave for a lighter flavor.
  • Festive Finish: Top with pomegranate arils for a jewel-toned garnish.

🍷 Serving Suggestions

  • Serve alongside Juicy Herb-Roasted Turkey to balance the richness.
  • Add a dollop over Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes for a sweet-tart contrast.
  • Spread on leftover turkey sandwiches or warm rolls the next day.
  • Perfect on a cheese board with brie or goat cheese.
cranberry orange relish at a bright Thanksgiving table with citrus, candles, and beautiful light

💬 “Because comfort food doesn’t judge — it hugs.”
— The Recipe Host

🍊 Shop Some Favorite Kitchen Essentials:

I use my trusted food processor to get that perfect cranberry texture, and this little zester brings the orange peel to life. Serve it in a simple glass bowl for that bright, festive pop.

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