Cranberry Salsa

Highlighted under: SugarAlchemy Kitchen

This vibrant and zesty Cranberry Salsa is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday meals or as a refreshing dip for any occasion.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-21T16:07:29.822Z

Cranberry Salsa combines the tartness of cranberries with the zest of lime and the heat of jalapeños, making it a unique and refreshing condiment. It's perfect for topping grilled meats, serving with chips, or simply enjoying on its own. This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional salsa, bringing together sweet and savory flavors in every bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Bright and tangy flavor that awakens your taste buds
  • Easy to make with fresh ingredients
  • Versatile as a dip, topping, or side dish

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Cranberry Salsa brings a festive flair to any holiday table. Its vibrant colors and zesty flavors not only enhance your meal but also create a delightful visual appeal. Whether served alongside turkey, ham, or a vegan spread, this salsa complements a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your holiday repertoire.

This refreshing salsa is not just for the holidays; its bright and tangy flavor can elevate any gathering. The balance of sweetness from the sugar and tartness from the cranberries creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Perfect as a topping for grilled meats or as a dip with tortilla chips, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed year-round.

Health Benefits of Cranberries

Cranberries are a superfood packed with nutrients and antioxidants. They are known for their potential benefits in supporting urinary tract health and reducing inflammation. Incorporating cranberries into your diet can also help improve heart health due to their high levels of flavonoids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health.

In addition to their health benefits, cranberries are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This Cranberry Salsa is not only delicious; it provides an easy way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of cranberries while indulging in a flavorful dish.

Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Salsa can be served in various ways. As a dip, it pairs wonderfully with crispy tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks. If you want to impress your guests, serve it as a topping for grilled chicken or fish, adding a burst of flavor that enhances the dish without overpowering it.

For a unique twist, consider using this salsa as a filling for tacos or burritos. It adds a fresh, zesty element that contrasts beautifully with savory ingredients. Additionally, it's a fantastic accompaniment to cheese platters, providing a delightful contrast to rich cheeses.

Ingredients for Cranberry Salsa

Cranberry Salsa Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • Salt to taste

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir until well combined. Let sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

How to Make Cranberry Salsa

Prepare the Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.

Add Lime Juice and Sugar

Pour in the lime juice and sprinkle the sugar over the mixture. Season with salt to taste.

Mix and Chill

Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Serve chilled as a dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.

Storage Tips

To keep your Cranberry Salsa fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to a week, but the flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious over time. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

If you want to prepare it ahead of time, feel free to make it a day or two in advance. This allows the ingredients to marinate and meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of Cranberry Salsa is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder salsa, reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it entirely. For added heat, consider including diced serrano peppers or a pinch of cayenne.

You can also experiment with adding different fruits, such as diced mango or pineapple, to introduce a tropical twist. This not only adds a unique flavor but also enhances the salsa's texture and sweetness, making it even more delightful.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with cranberry salsa?

Cranberry salsa pairs well with grilled meats, tortilla chips, or even as a topping for salads.

→ How long does cranberry salsa last in the fridge?

Cranberry salsa can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container.

→ Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Fresh cranberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but you can use thawed frozen cranberries if necessary.

Cranberry Salsa

This vibrant and zesty Cranberry Salsa is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday meals or as a refreshing dip for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: SugarAlchemy Kitchen

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Cranberry Salsa Ingredients

  1. 2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed
  2. 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  3. 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
  4. 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
  5. 1/4 cup lime juice
  6. 1/4 cup sugar
  7. Salt to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.

Step 02

Pour in the lime juice and sprinkle the sugar over the mixture. Season with salt to taste.

Step 03

Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Total Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 5mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 1g