Molded Cranberry Relish Or Salad
A tangy and sweet molded cranberry relish with crunchy celery and nuts, perfect for holiday tables and festive gatherings, offering a colorful and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cranberries in 1 cup of water for 20 minutes.
- Stir in sugar and cook 5 minutes longer.
- Soften gelatin in 1/4 cup of cold water; add to hot cranberries and stir until dissolved. Cool.
- When mixture begins to thicken, add chopped celery, nuts, and salt.
- Turn into a dish or mold and chill in refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your cranberry relish, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist. If you prefer a nut-free option, sunflower seeds make a great substitute for chopped nuts. Make sure the gelatin is fully dissolved to avoid any lumps in your final dish. For a lighter texture, you can fold in some whipped topping just before chilling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this molded cranberry relish as a refreshing side dish at holiday meals or alongside roasted meats. It pairs beautifully with Jon'S Broccoli for a colorful plate. For a unique twist, consider incorporating it into a salad topped with Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing. This dish is also a delightful addition to a Thanksgiving spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The relish may thicken as it sits, so you can stir in a small amount of water to loosen it up before serving. Avoid freezing the dish, as the texture may change once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molded Cranberry Relish Or Salad contains roughly 423 calories, with 5g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1757mg per serving (76% 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 use fresh cranberries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh cranberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure they are thoroughly cooked until they pop and release their juices. The cooking time will remain the same, so you'll achieve the desired texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute unflavored gelatin with agar-agar or a similar vegan gelatin alternative. Follow the package instructions for the correct ratio, as they may differ from traditional gelatin. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of the relish.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the relish?
If you prefer a less sweet relish, reduce the sugar amount by half and taste the mixture before adding more. You can also balance the sweetness with a bit of added acidity, such as lemon juice, to enhance the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
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).