Cranberry Salsa
Highlighted under: International Recipes
This vibrant and tangy Cranberry Salsa is the perfect addition to your holiday table or as a delightful dip year-round.
This Cranberry Salsa combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple and the zest of jalapeño, creating a refreshing and flavorful dish that is sure to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and tangy flavors that awaken the palate
- A unique twist on traditional salsa that's perfect for any occasion
- Quick to prepare, making it a hassle-free appetizer
The Perfect Holiday Appetizer
Cranberry Salsa offers a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens up any holiday gathering. Its vibrant colors and tangy taste make it a fitting complement to traditional dishes like roast turkey or ham. Whether you're hosting a festive dinner or attending a potluck, this salsa is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
This salsa not only enhances your holiday meals but also serves as a delightful dip for chips or crackers. Its unique combination of sweet pineapple, tart cranberries, and spicy jalapeño creates a balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Your guests will be coming back for seconds!
A Versatile Year-Round Dip
While Cranberry Salsa shines during the holidays, its bright and zesty flavors make it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether it's a summer barbecue, a game day gathering, or a casual get-together, this salsa can elevate your appetizer spread. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a charcuterie board for an added twist.
This recipe is also highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients such as diced mango or avocado to personalize it to your taste. The beauty of this salsa lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to suit different themes or occasions.
Health Benefits of Cranberries
Cranberries are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. These tiny berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them a great addition to your diet. They are known to support heart health, promote urinary tract health, and boost the immune system, especially during cold and flu season.
In addition to their health benefits, cranberries are low in calories, making them a guilt-free choice for snacking. Paired with pineapple and veggies, this salsa provides a nutritious option that keeps your energy levels up while satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Cranberry Salsa:
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to start making the salsa!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Cranberry Salsa:
Prepare the Cranberries
Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or blemished berries.
Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, pineapple, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro.
Add Lime Juice and Season
Pour the lime juice over the mixture and season with salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
Chill and Serve
Let the salsa chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Salsa with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled meats!
Tips for Making the Best Cranberry Salsa
To achieve the best flavor, always use fresh cranberries. Frozen cranberries can be used in a pinch, but the texture and taste may not be as vibrant. When selecting jalapeños, opt for ones that are firm and glossy for maximum heat and flavor.
If you prefer a milder salsa, consider removing the seeds from the jalapeño or using a smaller amount. Additionally, letting the salsa chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors, so plan ahead to allow it to rest in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions
Cranberry Salsa pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish to add a burst of flavor to your main course. It can also be used as a dressing for salads, adding a sweet and spicy element that brightens up leafy greens.
For a fun twist, use it as a filling for tacos or quesadillas. The combination of sweet and savory will impress your family and friends, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Storage and Shelf Life
This Cranberry Salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to meld and intensify, making it even more delicious after a day or two. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, as some separation may occur.
If you're planning to make it ahead of time for an event, it's best to prepare it no more than two days in advance to ensure freshness. However, you can also freeze the salsa for up to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator.
→ What can I serve this salsa with?
Cranberry Salsa pairs well with tortilla chips, grilled chicken, or fish.
→ Can I substitute frozen cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are recommended for the best texture, but if using frozen, thaw and drain them well.
→ Is this salsa spicy?
It has a mild heat from the jalapeño. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less jalapeño.
Cranberry Salsa
This vibrant and tangy Cranberry Salsa is the perfect addition to your holiday table or as a delightful dip year-round.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: International Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water and remove any stems or blemished berries.
In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, pineapple, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro.
Pour the lime juice over the mixture and season with salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
Let the salsa chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 70 kcal
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 1g