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Cranberry relish is a Thanksgiving essential, bringing a burst of tart, fresh flavor to balance the rich and savory dishes on the table. Unlike cranberry sauce, which is usually cooked, relish is often raw, zesty, and full of texture.
With simple ingredients like oranges, apples, spices, or even a splash of liqueur, cranberry relish can be customized in countless ways.
It’s easy to make ahead, requires little effort, and adds a bright pop of color to your spread.
Here are 17 of the best cranberry relish recipes to try this Thanksgiving and impress your guests with something both classic and creative.
1. Classic Cranberry Orange Relish
Fresh cranberries pulsed with oranges and sugar for a tangy, refreshing side. It’s quick to prepare, requires no cooking, and adds a bright burst of citrus flavor.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Classic Cranberry Orange Relish recipe.
2. Apple Cranberry Relish
Cranberries blended with tart apples and a touch of cinnamon. This relish is crisp, lightly spiced, and pairs perfectly with roasted turkey.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 4g
Get the Apple Cranberry Relish recipe.
3. Ginger Cranberry Relish
A zesty mix of cranberries, oranges, and fresh ginger. The ginger adds warmth and spice, making this relish stand out as a bold Thanksgiving side.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 125
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 31g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Ginger Cranberry Relish recipe.
4. Pomegranate Cranberry Relish
Cranberries combined with pomegranate seeds and a drizzle of honey. Sweet, tart, and full of crunch, this relish brings festive flair to the table.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 135
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 4g
Get the Pomegranate Cranberry Relish recipe.
5. Spiced Cranberry Relish
Cranberries mixed with oranges, nutmeg, and cinnamon. This version is warmly spiced and feels especially cozy for the holiday season.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Spiced Cranberry Relish recipe.
6. Cranberry Relish with Walnuts
Cranberries blended with orange zest, sugar, and chopped walnuts for a crunchy twist. The nuts add texture and depth, making this relish extra satisfying.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Cranberry Relish with Walnuts recipe.
7. Jalapeño Cranberry Relish
Cranberries mixed with jalapeños, lime juice, and cilantro. This relish is sweet, tart, and spicy—a bold, unexpected addition to Thanksgiving dinner.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Jalapeño Cranberry Relish recipe.
8. Pear Cranberry Relish
A blend of cranberries and ripe pears with a touch of vanilla. Sweet, mellow pears balance the cranberries’ tartness for a softer, more delicate flavor.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 4g
Get the Pear Cranberry Relish recipe.
9. Cranberry Relish with Pineapple
Fresh cranberries mixed with crushed pineapple and sugar. Tropical, tangy, and sweet, this version is a fun twist that pairs surprisingly well with Thanksgiving turkey.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 135
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 33g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Cranberry Relish with Pineapple recipe.
10. Maple Cranberry Relish
Cranberries sweetened with pure maple syrup and a hint of orange zest. The maple adds a warm, earthy sweetness that feels perfect for fall gatherings.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 31g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Maple Cranberry Relish recipe.
11. Cranberry Relish with Red Wine
Cranberries blended with oranges, sugar, and a splash of red wine. This relish is rich, slightly boozy, and adds a gourmet touch to the holiday table.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Cranberry Relish with Red Wine recipe.
12. Cranberry Relish with Celery
Cranberries pulsed with celery, onion, and orange zest. It’s crisp, savory-sweet, and makes a refreshing side that stands out from the sweeter versions.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 1g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Cranberry Relish with Celery recipe.
13. Honey Cranberry Relish
A simple mix of cranberries, oranges, and honey instead of sugar. It’s naturally sweetened, wholesome, and perfect for guests who prefer less processed ingredients.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 125
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Honey Cranberry Relish recipe.
14. Cranberry Relish with Apples and Cinnamon
Cranberries blended with apples, sugar, and ground cinnamon. It’s sweet, spiced, and cozy—a flavorful option that doubles as a spread for biscuits.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 135
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 4g
Get the Cranberry Relish with Apples and Cinnamon recipe.
15. Cranberry Relish with Orange Liqueur
Cranberries mixed with oranges, sugar, and a splash of orange liqueur. Elegant and festive, this adult-friendly version adds a special flair to the table.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 33g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Cranberry Relish with Orange Liqueur recipe.
16. Cranberry Relish with Pecans and Raisins
Cranberries blended with chopped pecans and raisins for extra sweetness and crunch. It’s a hearty, textured relish that pairs well with both turkey and ham.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
Get the Cranberry Relish with Pecans and Raisins recipe.
17. Cranberry Relish with Ginger Ale
Cranberries mixed with ginger ale, oranges, and sugar. Fizzy, sweet, and zesty, this version has a light and refreshing flavor that brightens the holiday spread.
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 0g
- Carbs: 34g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
