Jalapeno Cranberry Salsa
Bright, tangy, and mildly spicy, this cranberry jalapeno salsa offers a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, ideal for holiday gatherings, chips, or topping baked proteins.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut limes into 6 pieces each, including rind, and chop finely.
- Add cranberries to a food processor and process very briefly.
- Combine the processed cranberries and lime pieces in a plastic container.
- Add finely chopped jalapenos, chopped cilantro leaves, and sugar to the container.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Chill the salsa for 15 minutes up to overnight before serving.
- Serve as an appetizer with baked tortilla chips, over baked fish or chicken, or as a relish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder salsa, use only one jalapeno or remove the seeds and membranes. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries can be substituted; just ensure they are thawed and drained. Experiment with additional herbs like mint for a unique twist. This salsa can also be blended for a smoother texture if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Jalapeno Cranberry Salsa as a vibrant appetizer with baked tortilla chips. It also pairs beautifully with grilled fish or chicken for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Grilled Corn And Black Bean Salad or as a topping for tacos.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld and improve over time. It’s not recommended to freeze this salsa, as the texture of the cranberries and cilantro may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Cranberry Salsa contains roughly 57 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value).
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 make this salsa ahead of time?
Yes, this salsa can be made several hours or even a day in advance. Chilling allows the flavors to develop, making it taste even better. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the ingredients.
Is this salsa spicy?
The spiciness of the salsa largely depends on the number of jalapenos used and their heat level. Starting with one jalapeno allows you to control the spice, and you can always add more if you prefer a hotter salsa.
What can I substitute for cilantro?
If you're not a fan of cilantro, consider using parsley or mint as a substitute for a different flavor profile. Both will add a fresh element to the salsa while accommodating different taste preferences.
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).