Cranberry Jello Relish
A vibrant and tart cranberry Jello relish with orange and strawberry flavors, perfect as a festive side dish or holiday appetizer for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend cranberries, orange rind, and sugar in a food processor; then add orange juice.
- Make up the strawberry Jell-O according to package instructions with hot water.
- When the Jell-O begins to harden slightly, fold in the fruit mixture.
- Pour into a mold and refrigerate until fully set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider blending the cranberries longer in the food processor. If you're looking for a lower sugar option, you can reduce the sugar to 1 cup or use a sugar substitute. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile. This dish can also be made with raspberry Jell-O for a different twist, or try using fresh lime juice for added zest.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry Jello relish makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals, particularly Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham and can be served alongside dishes like Grilled Grouper With Cantaloupe-Lime Salsa. For added presentation, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The relish can be served cold straight from the fridge, but if you prefer it slightly softened, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Jello Relish contains roughly 270 calories, with 8g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before blending. The flavor will remain delicious, though fresh cranberries will provide a firmer texture.
How long does it take for the Jello to set?
Typically, the Jello should set in about 4-6 hours in the refrigerator. However, for best results, it's advisable to prepare it the night before serving, allowing it ample time to firm up and develop flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegan by ensuring that the Jell-O used is plant-based. Some brands offer vegan gelatin alternatives, which can be substituted for traditional gelatin. Always check the ingredients to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).