Cranberry relish is a timeless addition to any holiday table. This Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe brings the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, making it a crowd favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family gathering, this dish adds a refreshing touch to your meal. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making the best Ocean Spray cranberry relish, its variations, and how to incorporate it into your holiday feast.
What Is Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish?
Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish is a fresh, uncooked cranberry condiment that combines tart cranberries, sweet oranges, and a touch of sugar to create a vibrant and zesty side dish. Unlike traditional cranberry sauce, which is cooked until thick, cranberry relish retains a fresh, slightly crunchy texture that enhances any meal.
Why This Relish Stands Out
✔ Bright & Refreshing Flavor – The tartness of cranberries pairs perfectly with the sweet citrusy notes of oranges.
✔ Quick & Easy to Make – No cooking required! Just a few ingredients and a food processor make this dish simple and stress-free.
✔ Versatile Use – Great as a holiday side dish, a sandwich topping, or a mix-in for oatmeal and yogurt.
✔ Healthier Alternative – Made with natural ingredients and less sugar than many cranberry sauces.
What’s the Difference Between Cranberry Sauce and Cranberry Relish?
- Cranberry Relish is raw, giving it a brighter, fresher taste with a crisp texture.
- Cranberry Sauce is cooked down with sugar, making it thicker and sweeter.
Key Ingredients in the Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Recipe
To make the Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. These come together to create a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for the Cranberry Relish
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ocean Spray Fresh Cranberries | 12 oz (1 bag) |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| Orange Zest | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon Zest | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Orange Juice | 1/4 cup |
| Chopped Pecans (optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
How to Make Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish
Making this relish is straightforward. In just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that will impress your guests and complement your holiday meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Clean the Cranberries: Start by washing the fresh cranberries under cold running water. Discard any damaged berries.
- Chop the Cranberries: Next, chop or pulse the cranberries in a food processor. For a coarse texture, pulse a few times; for a finer relish, process until finely chopped.
- Combine the Ingredients: Place the chopped cranberries in a large bowl. Add sugar, orange zest, lemon zest, and fresh orange juice.
- Add Spices and Nuts: Stir in cinnamon for a hint of warmth. If you prefer extra crunch, add chopped pecans.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the relish for at least two hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the Ocean Spray cranberry relish chilled. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, salads, or even as a topping for desserts like cheesecake.
Nutritional Benefits of Cranberries
Cranberries are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits. They are a fantastic addition to your diet year-round, especially during the colder months.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries contain powerful antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress in the body.
- Boosts Immune Function: High in vitamin C, cranberries support your immune system, which is essential during flu season.
- Supports Digestive Health: Cranberries are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health.
- Urinary Tract Health: Cranberries are widely known for their ability to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
For additional information on cranberries’ health benefits, visit Healthline’s article on Cranberries.
Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish Variations
While the classic Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe is fantastic, you can experiment with different variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Adding More Citrus Flavor
If you love citrus, try incorporating lime juice and lime zest. This will give the relish an exciting twist and a brighter flavor.
Cranberry Relish with Apples
For a bit of extra sweetness and a crunchy texture, add diced green apples. The tartness of the apples complements the fresh cranberries perfectly.
Spicy Cranberry Relish
If you enjoy spicy foods, add some chopped jalapeños or red chili flakes. The spice will contrast with the sweetness of the cranberries, making for a unique and flavorful relish.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Option
The Ocean Spray cranberry relish recipe is naturally both vegan and gluten-free. This makes it an excellent option for people with dietary restrictions. If you’d like a sugar-free version, consider substituting the granulated sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Relish
Follow these expert tips to make your Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish extra vibrant, flavorful, and perfectly balanced:
- Leave the Orange Peel On – It adds natural citrus oils for a stronger, fresher flavor. Just remove any seeds!
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste – Start with ½ cup sugar, then add more if needed. The relish will taste less tart after chilling.
- Add Nuts for Crunch – Chopped pecans or walnuts bring a nutty contrast to the smooth, tart cranberries.
- Make It Ahead for Best Flavor – The relish gets better after 24 hours in the fridge as the flavors meld.
- Freezer-Friendly! – Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months and thaw before serving.
💡 Want another easy, fruity side? Try this Cranberry Applesauce Bread for a delicious way to enjoy cranberries!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these mistakes to ensure your Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish turns out perfectly balanced, fresh, and flavorful every time:
- Over-Blending the Relish – Pulse the ingredients just until finely chopped—too much blending makes it mushy.
- Adding Too Much Sugar at Once – Start with ½ cup of sugar, taste, and adjust gradually to keep the flavors balanced.
- Skipping the Chilling Time – Let the relish sit for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and mellow.
- Using Bitter Oranges – If your orange has a thick, bitter peel, use only half the peel to avoid overpowering the relish.
- Not Storing Properly – Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Health Benefits of Cranberry Relish
This Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients and antioxidants that support overall health!
- Rich in Antioxidants – Cranberries are loaded with vitamin C and polyphenols, which help boost immunity and reduce inflammation.
- Supports Digestion – Oranges provide fiber and natural enzymes that promote gut health.
- Good for Heart Health – Cranberries are known to support healthy cholesterol levels and may help lower blood pressure.
- Naturally Energizing – The combination of fruits and natural sugars provides a quick energy boost without processed ingredients.
- Low in Calories & High in Fiber – A light and refreshing side that fits into balanced, wholesome eating habits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between cranberry sauce and cranberry relish?
The key difference between cranberry sauce and cranberry relish is the texture and preparation method. Cranberry sauce is typically cooked, which gives it a smooth and soft consistency. On the other hand, cranberry relish is made from raw cranberries, resulting in a fresh, crunchy texture. Relish also often includes citrus zest, nuts, or other fruits, while cranberry sauce is usually just cranberries and sugar.
How do you make Ocean Spray cranberry juice taste better?
Ocean Spray cranberry juice can be quite tart. To improve its flavor, you can add sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Alternatively, mix it with other juices, such as orange or apple juice, to balance out the tartness. You can also add fresh mint or soda water for a refreshing twist.
How long will homemade cranberry relish keep?
Homemade cranberry relish will last up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’d like to store it for longer, you can freeze the relish for up to three months. When ready to serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Is it OK to drink Ocean Spray Cranberry juice every day?
Drinking Ocean Spray cranberry juice every day is generally safe. However, it’s important to be mindful of your sugar intake, especially if you’re drinking the sweetened variety. Unsweetened cranberry juice offers the same benefits without the added sugar. Cranberry juice can also support urinary tract health, though it should be consumed in moderation.
How to Use Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish in Your Meals
While Ocean Spray cranberry relish is often associated with Thanksgiving and Christmas, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed all year round. Here are a few ideas for using cranberry relish in your meals:
- On Sandwiches or Wraps: Add a spoonful of cranberry relish to turkey or chicken sandwiches for an added burst of flavor.
- As a Salad Topping: Use cranberry relish as a topping for mixed greens or spinach salad for a vibrant and flavorful contrast.
- As a Dessert Topping: Pair the relish with cheesecake, ice cream, or yogurt for a sweet and tart twist.
- With Grilled Meats: Serve cranberry relish alongside grilled pork, turkey, or chicken for a delicious side.
