Microwave Cranberry Relish
A vibrant, tangy cranberry relish with orange zest, perfect for holiday tables and festive gatherings, offering a sweet-tart flavor that complements turkey and other dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a 3-quart microwave casserole.
- Cover tightly and microwave on High for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring after 5 minutes, until boiling.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a less sweet relish, start with 1 1/4 cups of sugar and adjust to taste. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also substitute the orange peel with lemon or lime for a different citrus flavor. Using fresh cranberries is best, but frozen can work in a pinch; just ensure they're thawed and drained.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cranberry relish as a vibrant side dish alongside roasted turkey or ham for a festive touch. It also pairs beautifully with Tangy Fruit Dip as a light appetizer. Consider adding it to a cheese platter for a delightful contrast or using it as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal for breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cranberry relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and microwave in short bursts until warmed through, stirring occasionally to maintain even heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Cranberry Relish contains roughly 292 calories, with 0g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g 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 make this cranberry relish ahead of time?
Yes, this relish can be made up to a week in advance. Its flavors deepen and improve as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for holiday meals. Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
What can I use instead of sugar in this recipe?
If you want a healthier alternative, consider using honey or maple syrup. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste, as these sweeteners can be sweeter than sugar. Just keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly.
Can I use dried cranberries instead?
Dried cranberries can be used, but they will not provide the same tartness and texture as fresh or frozen cranberries. If using dried, soak them in warm water for 15-20 minutes before adding to the mix to help rehydrate and soften them.
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).