Save to Pinterest Cranberry Jalapeño Salsa brings together sweet tart cranberries and spicy jalapeño in a colorful dip that brightens up any holiday table. I love making this when cranberries are fresh and abundant and it is the first thing that disappears at parties Whether you serve it with turkey chicken or simply with tortilla chips this salsa always wins rave reviews.
I was first introduced to this salsa by a friend at a neighborhood potluck and I ended up texting her for the recipe before the night was over. Now I bring it to almost every gathering around the holidays.
Ingredients
- Fresh cranberries: Brings tartness and jewel-toned color Look for berries that are deep red and firm
- Jalapeño: Brings a touch of heat Seed carefully for less spice and select peppers that are shiny and plump
- Red onion: Adds sweetness and crunch Choose onions that feel heavy for their size
- Cilantro: Adds herbal freshness Pick bright green leaves with no wilting
- Lime juice: Balances the salsa with classic citrus brightness Use freshly squeezed for best flavor
- Honey: Adds subtle sweetness to marry flavors Opt for real honey and adjust to taste
- Salt: Enhances all of the other ingredients Use flaky sea salt if available
Instructions
- Prep Main Ingredients:
- Place cranberries jalapeño and red onion in a food processor Pulse several times until coarsely chopped but not mushy It should still have some texture
- Mix and Season:
- Transfer the chopped mixture to a bowl Stir in cilantro lime juice honey and a good pinch of salt Mix very well so everything combines evenly Taste and adjust salt or honey for your preferred balance
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salsa and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour This resting time lets the flavors blend and mellows the sharpness Serve cold with chips turkey or grilled meats
Save to Pinterest Fresh cranberries are my secret weapon in fall and winter I love their bold flavor and how they brighten up savory dishes One year I brought this salsa to Thanksgiving and my uncle ate half the bowl before dinner was even served
Storage Tips
Keep any leftover salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator It stays fresh and crisp for up to five days If you want to prepare ahead mix everything except cilantro and add the cilantro just before serving to keep it bright and green
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of honey swap in maple syrup or agave If you do not have fresh cilantro try flat-leaf parsley for a different herbal note For a less spicy salsa swap jalapeño for mild green bell pepper
Serving Suggestions
Pair with turkey roast chicken or pork for a zesty twist Serve over cream cheese with crackers for a colorful appetizer Scoop with tortilla chips or pretzel crisps for game day snacking
Cultural Inspiration
This salsa nods to classic Mexican salsas with its fresh herbs and heat but uses seasonal cranberries for a festive North American twist It is just as at home on a holiday buffet as it is at a summer barbecue
Seasonal Adaptations
Use frozen cranberries if you can not find fresh Add diced apples or pears in late fall for extra sweetness Swap lime for orange juice for a more wintery note
Save to Pinterest Every year my family insists on this salsa at Thanksgiving Even cranberry skeptics go back for seconds I love hearing from friends who now make it part of their holiday spread
Common Recipe Questions
- → What fruits are the main base of this salsa?
Fresh cranberries form the tart base, providing vivid color and bold flavor.
- → How spicy is this salsa?
The spice level comes from jalapeño. Removing the seeds keeps it moderately spicy, but you can adjust to taste.
- → What dishes pair well with cranberry jalapeño salsa?
It pairs excellently with turkey, grilled chicken, or as a vibrant dip with tortilla chips.
- → How long should you chill the salsa before serving?
Chill for at least 1 hour so the flavors have time to meld for the best result.
- → Can you make this salsa ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.