Pear-Cranberry Relish

Prep: 15 min

A vibrant, tangy relish combining fresh pears, cranberries, and citrus, ideal for holiday gatherings or as a sweet-tart condiment for meats and cheeses.

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Ingredients

  • 2 fresh winter pears, cored and quartered
  • 1 thin-skinned orange, quartered and seeded
  • 1 lemon, quartered and seeded
  • 4 cups cranberries
  • 2 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

  1. Force the pears, orange, and lemon through a food chopper, using a coarse blade.
  2. Add the cranberries, sugar, and ground ginger to the chopped fruit.
  3. Mix well and refrigerate for several hours or overnight before serving.
  4. Store in the refrigerator.

Tips & Substitutions

For a twist on flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or substituting half the sugar with honey for a natural sweetness. If you don't have fresh cranberries, you can use frozen ones, just ensure they are thawed beforehand. This relish can also benefit from a splash of brandy or orange liqueur for added depth.

Serving Suggestions

This relish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, particularly turkey and pork. It also makes a delicious topping for cream cheese on a cheese platter or can be served alongside Low-Fat French Bread for a unique appetizer. Consider adding it to your holiday table for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store the pear-cranberry relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For optimal flavor, let it sit for at least a few hours before serving. It can be enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it warm, gently heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pear-Cranberry Relish contains roughly 1084 calories, with 26g protein, 244g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (136% of the Daily Value), and potassium (95% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 38g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1084 kcal 54% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 25.7g 51% DV
Total Fat 11.4g 15% DV
Carbs 244g 89% DV
Fiber 38.1g 100% DV
Sugar 27g 54% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 80.8mg 4% DV
Potassium 4442mg 95% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 55.6mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 25.2mg 28% DV
Calcium 387.9mg 30% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat

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 other fruits in this relish?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruits like apples or pomegranates to add variety. Just ensure that the total volume remains similar so the balance of flavors is maintained. Mixing in some chopped nuts can also provide a delightful crunch.

How long does this relish last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, pear-cranberry relish can last for up to two weeks. Just keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors and to maintain its freshness.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually recommended to make this relish a day or two in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving, and it will be ready to impress your guests!

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).

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