A vibrant holiday side that pairs perfectly with any festive main dish
This cranberry-orange relish adds a burst of bright flavor to your holiday table. With just four ingredients and no special equipment, it's the easiest way to bring festive cheer to your Christmas spread.
This vibrant relish combines tart cranberries with zesty orange, a touch of honey, and fresh rosemary. The result is a festive side that complements turkey, ham, or roasted pork perfectly. Best of all, it's ready in 25 minutes or less!
The tangy orange flavor cuts through rich holiday meats, while the rosemary adds aromatic depth. This no-cook recipe is perfect for last-minute guests or make-ahead holiday prep.
With its ruby-red color and citrusy aroma, this relish is as beautiful as it is delicious. It's the perfect addition to your Christmas table that will have guests asking for the recipe.
Why This Recipe Works
Quick & Easy
Ready in 25 minutes with just 4 ingredients - no special equipment needed
Festive Flavor
Bright orange and tart cranberry create a perfect holiday flavor profile
Versatile
Pairs beautifully with turkey, ham, pork, or even as a cheese board accompaniment
Make-Ahead
Can be prepared up to 3 days ahead for easy holiday hosting
Simple Cranberry-Orange Relish
Bright holiday flavor in minutes
Ingredients
- - 12 oz fresh cranberries
- - 1 orange (zest and juice)
- - 3/4 cup honey
- - 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients: Rinse cranberries and zest orange. Measure all ingredients.
💡 Use a microplane for fine orange zest
Simmer Relish: In saucepan, combine cranberries, orange zest, juice, honey, and rosemary. Cook over medium heat.
💡 Stir occasionally until cranberries pop
Thicken Sauce: Cook until mixture thickens and cranberries burst (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
💡 Test thickness by drizzling a small amount
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Cranberries
Fresh cranberries provide the tartness that balances the sweetness. Frozen cranberries can be used if thawed first.
Substitutions: Canned cranberries (drained) or dried cranberries (rehydrated in water)
Orange
The zest adds aromatic brightness while the juice provides liquid. Use organic oranges for best flavor.
Substitutions: Blood orange for deeper color, or lemon zest for different citrus note
Honey
Honey adds natural sweetness and helps thicken the relish. Use raw local honey for best flavor.
Substitutions: Maple syrup or agave nectar
Rosemary
Fresh rosemary adds aromatic depth. Don't use dried as it can be overpowering.
Substitutions: Thyme or sage for different herbal notes
Pro Tips for Perfect Cranberry Relish
Zesting Technique
Use a microplane grater for fine zest. Avoid pith as it can be bitter.
Cooking Tip
Cook over medium heat to prevent burning. Stir frequently as cranberries pop.
Storage
Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestion
Serve at room temperature for best flavor.
Variations & Customizations
Spicy Version
Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper for a festive kick
Citrus Blend
Use equal parts orange and lemon zest for different flavor
Herb Swap
Replace rosemary with thyme or sage
Sweet Version
Add 1/4 cup brown sugar for extra sweetness
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roast turkey with herb stuffing
- Ham glazed with brown sugar
- Herb-roasted pork loin
- Goat cheese board with baguette
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with sparkling wine, chardonnay, or spiced cider
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare up to 3 days ahead. Store in airtight container in fridge.
Refrigerator Storage
Keep in sealed container for up to 5 days.
Freezer Storage
Freeze in airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions
No reheating needed - serve chilled or at room temperature.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Can I use dried cranberries?
A: Yes, but they'll be sweeter. Use 1 cup dried cranberries rehydrated in water.
Q: How to prevent burning?
A: Cook over medium heat and stir frequently.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, just use a larger pot and adjust cooking time as needed.
Q: How to thicken properly?
A: Cook until mixture coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
Final Thoughts
This cranberry-orange relish is the perfect holiday side that's as easy to make as it is delicious. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet honey, and aromatic rosemary creates a flavor profile that will elevate any festive meal.
With its vibrant ruby color and zesty aroma, this relish is sure to become a holiday favorite. Whether you're serving it with turkey, ham, or as part of a cheese board, it's a crowd-pleasing addition to any Christmas table.
