Deliciously Bold Cranberry Salsa Recipe for Holiday Feasts

There’s something enchanting about the way the holidays bring people together. The aroma of spices mingling with the crisp scents of fresh fruits, the laughter, and the delightful rush of anticipation as the table is set. One dish that always finds its way to my holiday gatherings is my CRANBERRY SALSA. This vibrant, zesty salsa not only bursts with flavor but also adds a pop of color to any table setting. It evokes memories of festive family dinners and cozy gatherings, where everyone has a plate piled high with delicious bites and stories to share.

Whether you’re sitting around a warm fire or hosting a lively party, this salsa is a delightful surprise. It’s refreshing, versatile, and sure to become a favorite at your gatherings, just like it has in mine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly tangy and sweet – a flavor explosion in every bite!
• Super easy to whip up, taking under 15 minutes.
• Fresh ingredients that are in season during fall and winter.
• Great as a dip, condiment, or even a topping for your favorite dishes.
• A stunning centerpiece on any holiday table or a fresh accompaniment to grilled meats.

Ingredients

Ready to gather your ingredients? Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious CRANBERRY SALSA:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries (about 4 cups)
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for a kick!)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• 1 medium orange, zested and juiced
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Notes:

• Fresh cranberries are key! Dried cranberries won’t give the same burst of flavor.
• For milder salsa, use less jalapeño or omit it altogether.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking (or rather, mixing!). Follow these simple steps:

1. Prep your cranberries: Rinse the fresh cranberries under water and sort through them to remove any that are mushy or discolored. It’s all about quality here!
2. Blend it up: In a food processor, add the fresh cranberries. Pulse until they are finely chopped – you want them to have small pieces, not a puree. Keep an eye on it; a few pulses should do the trick!
3. Add in the veggies: Next, mix in the finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
4. Juice and zest: Zest the orange first (careful not to get the bitter white pith!) before juicing it. Add both the zest and juice to your salsa mixture.
5. Sweeten it up: Drizzle in the honey or maple syrup. It adds a lovely touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the cranberries. Taste and adjust – some might like it sweeter!
6. Season it right: Sprinkle with salt and pepper and mix well. Taste and adjust as needed. This is your creation after all!

Pro Tip: Let your salsa chill in the fridge for about an hour before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.

Pro Tips & Variations

Want to put your own spin on this CRANBERRY SALSA? Here are some fun ideas:

• Add spices: A pinch of cumin or cinnamon can add an exciting touch.
• Change the citrus: Swap out the orange for lime or lemon for a different twist.
• Sweeten differently: Try agave nectar or stevia if you want to switch up your sweetener.
• Incorporate fruits: Diced mango or pineapple can bring a tropical twist!

Serving Suggestions

Now for the fun part—serving this vibrant salsa! Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your CRANBERRY SALSA:

• As a dip: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips or pita wedges for a snack that’ll disappear quickly.
• On grilled meat: This salsa makes a fabulous topping for grilled chicken or fish, providing a zesty contrast.
• In salads: Toss it into a greens salad for a burst of color and flavor. It pairs especially well with goat cheese!
• With cheese boards: Add it to a cheese platter alongside brie, goat cheese, or sharp cheddar — the flavors mesh wonderfully.

Imagine gathering around a table, friends and family sharing stories and laughter, with this salsa glowing in a bowl at the center. How inviting is that?

Storage Tips

If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), storing them is super easy:

• Refrigerate: Place the salsa in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze it! Just ensure you use a freezer-safe container. It should keep for about 2-3 months.
• Reheat or thaw: While it’s best enjoyed cold, if you’ve frozen it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this salsa?

While fresh cranberries are ideal for that vibrant burst of flavor, you can use frozen cranberries if you can’t find fresh ones. Just allow them to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using!

How spicy is this salsa with jalapeños?

The spiciness can vary based on how much jalapeño you use and its ripeness. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with half a jalapeño and taste before adding more!

Can I make this salsa a day ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salsa actually benefits from sitting in the fridge for a bit, allowing all those flavors to marry together beautifully. Just give it a stir before serving!

What can I substitute for cilantro?

If cilantro isn’t your thing (or you’re cooking for someone who doesn’t like it!), fresh parsley, basil, or even mint can make a lovely substitute!

Conclusion

And there you have it—my cherished CRANBERRY SALSA recipe, perfect for celebrating the festive spirit and gathering together with loved ones. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing it as I do! If you give it a try, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Share your experiences in the comments below or let me know on social media how you enjoyed it. Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Deliciously Bold Cranberry Salsa Recipe for Holiday Feasts

---

• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 cups 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Experience bold flavors with this easy cranberry salsa perfect for holiday gatherings Elevate your feasts with this fresh zesty dip 154 chars

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

12 oz fresh cranberries (about 4 cups)

1 small red onion, finely diced

1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

1 medium orange, zested and juiced

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

Salt and pepper, to taste

---

Instructions

Rinse the fresh cranberries under water and sort through them to remove any that are mushy or discolored.

In a food processor, add the fresh cranberries. Pulse until finely chopped – small pieces, not a puree.

Mix in the finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Stir gently to combine.

Zest the orange first before juicing it. Add both the zest and juice to the salsa mixture.

Drizzle in honey or maple syrup and adjust to taste.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper and mix well. Taste and adjust as needed.

Notes

A vibrant, zesty salsa bursting with flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 cups
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 14 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 2 g

Keywords: Cranberry Salsa, Holiday Recipes, Salsa, Fresh Salsa