ocean spray cranberry relish recipe
The Best ocean spray cranberry relish recipe
I keep this recipe on hand for everything from holiday gatherings to casual weeknight meals. It’s versatile enough to be a crowd-pleaser but simple enough to make ahead and store for days. The texture stays crisp and the flavors stay bright, so it doesn’t get mushy or lose its punch. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a little extra effort, but it’s worth it when your family is actually excited to eat it. And honestly? It’s one of those recipes that feels like a little celebration every time you make it.
Classic Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish
A bright, tangy relish perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a holiday side. Simple ingredients yield a sweet-tart flavor that pairs well with everything from turkey to cheese boards.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Rinse cranberries under cold water to remove any debris, then place them in a saucepan. Add water, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. -
2
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until cranberries burst and release their juices. -
3
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing down gently to extract all liquid. Discard solids if desired or save for garnish. -
4
In a separate bowl, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 3 minutes). Stir in the strained cranberry mixture and mix well. -
5
Let the relish cool to room temperature before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
🔧Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Colander
- Fine-mesh strainer
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish
How do I adjust the sweetness if I prefer it less sweet?
You can reduce the sugar by about one-third by using a mix of honey or brown sugar instead of all white sugar. For example, if the recipe calls for ½ cup sugar, try ⅓ cup brown sugar and ⅓ cup honey. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference, remembering that honey adds a slight caramel flavor that pairs well with the cranberries.
Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried?
Yes, you can, but adjust the ratio. Use about 1½ cups fresh cranberries for every 1 cup dried cranberries. Fresh cranberries will need more time to simmer to break them down fully—add them toward the end of cooking to prevent over-simmering. If using fresh, you may also want to add a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Why does the recipe include the lemon juice and orange zest?
The lemon juice brightens the flavor and helps preserve the relish’s freshness by acting as a natural preservative. The orange zest adds a subtle citrusy depth that complements the cranberries and cranberry juice. Together, they enhance the overall aroma and balance the sweetness without overpowering it.
How long will the ocean spray cranberry relish keep in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this relish will last about 2–3 weeks. The natural acidity from the cranberries and lemon juice helps it stay fresh longer, but always check for spoilage (e.g., mold, off smells) before using.
