When the holiday season rolls around, there’s one dish that never fails to steal the spotlight on my table: Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish. The moment I bring it out, I can feel the excitement in the air as friends and family gather, enticed by the colorful twist it adds to our festive feast. Its zesty blend of tart cranberries and sweet orange bursts with flavor, offering that perfect contrast against savory dishes.

I happened upon this recipe during a cozy evening searching for inspiration after a hectic day at work. This delightful relish not only elevates traditional meals but also serves as a refreshing condiment you can enjoy year-round. It’s the kind of easy-to-make dish that impresses guests, yet feels like a warm embrace of home. Join me in creating this irresistible Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish—your holiday celebration just may be forever changed!

Why is this Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish special?

Vibrant flavors explode in every bite, combining tart cranberries with sweet orange for a refreshing experience. Quick to prepare, this relish comes together in just a few simple steps, making it ideal for busy holiday gatherings. Nutty crunch from walnuts adds a delightful texture, enhancing its appeal. Versatile uses mean it pairs wonderfully with everything from roasted meats to breakfast toast. Plus, this crowd-pleaser can be made ahead, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without stress—just think of how it complements dishes like Cranberry Pecan Stuffing for your festive meals!

Irresistible Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Ingredients

For the Relish

Fresh Cranberries – These juicy gems provide the tart base of your relish; you can substitute frozen cranberries if fresh isn’t available.
Granulated Sugar – This sweetener balances the tartness of the cranberries; feel free to adjust to your taste or use honey for a natural alternative.
Orange Zest – It adds a bright citrus aroma; for a twist, try using lime or lemon zest.
Fresh Orange Juice – This liquid brings a sweet acidity; you can swap it for other citrus juices if desired.
Cinnamon – This spice gives warmth; for a different profile, consider using nutmeg.
Chopped Walnuts – They introduce a wonderful crunch; you can substitute with pecans or almonds for variety or omit them for a nut-free option.

For Storage

Airtight Container – After cooling, transfer the relish to this for optimal freshness; it lasts up to two weeks in the fridge.

Dive into making this Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish and experience the joy of flavor it brings to your holiday table!

How to Make Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish

Prepare Ingredients: Rinse fresh cranberries under cold water, discarding any stems and bad berries to ensure a delightful tartness in your relish.
Mix Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, granulated sugar, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Heat over medium, stirring well until mixed and the sugar begins to dissolve.
Boil and Simmer: Increase the heat to boil the mixture. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, until the cranberries burst open and blend into a chunky sauce.
Enhance Flavor: Stir in the cinnamon and chopped walnuts. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Cool Down: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the relish cool at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container to preserve freshness.

Optional: Serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Variations

Feel free to take this holiday favorite and make it your own with these fun and tasty twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute granulated sugar with maple syrup for a natural sweetener that adds depth.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising heat that takes the relish to a new level.
Apple Twist: Mix in diced apples for a refreshing crunch and a touch of extra sweetness.
Nut-Free: Omit walnuts entirely and replace them with sunflower seeds for a satisfying crunch without the nuts.
Citrus Medley: Use a mix of orange, lemon, and lime juices to create a vibrant blend of flavors that brighten the relish.
Herb Infusion: Stir in a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh mint or basil for a unique herbal note that complements the tanginess.
Ginger Zing: Add freshly grated ginger for a zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle in some maple syrup as a substitute for sugar to add a warm, caramelized flavor profile.

Embrace the joy of customizing and see how your unique creations bring new delights to your table!

What to Serve with Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish?

Delight your guests with a feast that balances sweetness, tartness, and savory flavors seamlessly.

Roasted Turkey: The rich flavor of turkey combines exquisitely with the relish’s tartness, elevating your holiday meal to new heights.
Glazed Ham: The sweet, sticky glaze complements the cranberry’s tart notes, making them a match made in culinary heaven.
Stuffing: Whether it’s herbed or cornbread, stuffing benefits from the bright notes of relish, enhancing each bite with a touch of freshness.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes creates a delightful contrast with the chunky relish, making each forkful a celebration.
Brie Cheese: Pair this relish with a warm, melted brie for a sophisticated appetizer that balances creamy richness with zesty fruity notes.
Spinach Salad: Tossed with nuts and feta, a fresh spinach salad topped with cranberry relish adds a burst of flavor and texture that sings of the season.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of sparkling wine or champagne serves as a delightful counterpart, balancing the acidity and sweetness of your relish with effervescence.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a surprising twist, serve a dollop of relish over vanilla ice cream—sweet, tangy, and creamy—a delightful dessert finale!

Tips for the Best Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish

Freshness is Key: Always use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture; frozen cranberries might alter the final taste.
Balance Sweetness: Adjust the sugar based on your preference. Taste as you go, especially if you prefer a more tart relish.
Citrus Zest: Don’t skip the orange zest! It amplifies the relish’s aromatic profile and adds a bright flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Let it Chill: Allowing your Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish to chill for several hours or overnight helps the flavors meld and develop fully.
Experiment with Nuts: If using nuts, toast them lightly first for an intensified crunch and warmth; feel free to substitute or omit for a nut-free version.

How to Store and Freeze Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish

Fridge: Store the cranberry relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This keeps it fresh and ready for holiday meals.

Freezer: You can freeze the relish for up to three months. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: If serving chilled, enjoy directly from the fridge. If you prefer it warm, gently reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain texture.

Make-Ahead: Preparing your Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead option for your festive gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can make the entire relish up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator. Simply prepare the relish as instructed, let it cool, and then transfer it to an airtight container for optimal freshness. To maintain its vibrant color and flavor, store it in the refrigerator and avoid exposure to air. When you’re ready to serve, give the relish a gentle stir and present it chilled or at room temperature for the best experience. Enjoy the peace of mind and convenience that comes with prepping ahead!

Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tartness, fresh cranberries are the way to go. Look for plump berries that are bright red. If fresh isn’t available, you can substitute with frozen cranberries; just make sure they are unsweetened for optimal results.

How long can I store the cranberry relish in the fridge?
You can store your Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing it up, to keep it fresh and tasty!

Can I freeze the cranberry relish? If so, how should I do that?
Yes, you can freeze the relish for up to three months! Here’s how:

Once cooled, transfer the relish into a freezer-safe container.
Leave about an inch of space at the top, as it will expand when frozen.
Seal tightly and label it with the date.
To use, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What should I do if my relish is too tart?
If you find your Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish a bit too tart for your liking, don’t worry! You can add a bit more granulated sugar or honey, a tablespoon at a time, stirring thoroughly after each addition. Taste as you go until you reach your desired sweetness.

Can this relish be used for dietary restrictions?
Yes! This relish is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by substituting granulated sugar for a vegan alternative. For nut allergies, feel free to omit the walnuts entirely or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch. Always check your ingredient labels, especially on things like sugar!

How should I serve the Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish?
Serve this relish chilled or at room temperature, and it pairs beautifully with roasted meats, turkey, or even as a zesty topping on sandwiches. It can also make a delightful addition to breakfast dishes like oatmeal or pancakes— the more the merrier!