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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.
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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