Description
This Fresh Cranberry Salsa is a vibrant and tangy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Combining tart cranberries with fresh jalapeño, cilantro, lime, and a touch of honey, it delivers a refreshing flavor balanced by smooth cream cheese and served with your favorite crackers.
Ingredients
Scale
Salsa Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh cranberries (12-ounce package)
- 1/4 cup finely minced red onion
- 1/2 cup roughly chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons finely minced jalapeño (start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)
- 1/3 cup honey or agave
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
Serving Ingredients
- 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese (use 2 blocks for a large group)
- Your favorite crackers
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberries: Rinse the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water and drain well to ensure they are clean and ready to be minced.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, finely mince the cranberries along with the red onion, jalapeño, and roughly chop the cilantro. Adjust the jalapeño amount to your preferred spice level.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the fresh lime juice, honey or agave, and salt. Mix everything together until well combined, balancing sweet and tart flavors to your liking.
- Chill the Salsa: Refrigerate the salsa for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to chill for serving.
- Serve with Cream Cheese and Crackers: Spread the block of cream cheese on a serving plate, then spoon the chilled cranberry salsa over the top. Arrange your favorite crackers around the cream cheese and salsa for dipping.
Notes
- This sauce is a standout holiday appetizer and tends to be a crowd-pleaser at parties.
- For a spicier kick, increase the jalapeño quantity or include some seeds.
- Use agave as a vegan-friendly alternative to honey.
- Double the ingredients if serving a larger group to ensure everyone gets enough.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse the salsa mixture briefly in a food processor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 0.25 cup salsa
- Calories: 55 kcal
- Sugar: 10.9 g
- Sodium: 75 mg
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14.8 g
- Fiber: 1.7 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
