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Fresh Cranberry Salad Recipe Perfect for Holidays

fresh cranberry salad - featured image

A vibrant and festive salad featuring fresh cranberries, crisp apples, juicy oranges, and crunchy pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries, roughly chopped
  • 2 medium apples, diced
  • 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the cranberries under cold water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Chop them roughly into small pieces.
  2. Core and dice the apples into small, even cubes. Toss them in a small bowl with a tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Peel the oranges and remove the pith. Cut each segment into halves or thirds and set aside.
  4. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the pecans. Stir frequently for 3-4 minutes until they’re aromatic and slightly browned.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cranberries, diced apples, orange segments, and celery.
  6. Drizzle honey over the mixture, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon, and toss everything gently until well combined.
  7. Add the toasted pecans and a handful of fresh mint leaves (if using). Give it one final toss.
  8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  9. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy! It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham.

Notes

[‘Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture.’, ‘Toast the pecans to enhance their flavor and add crunch.’, ‘Taste the salad after mixing to ensure the flavors are balanced; adjust honey or lemon juice as needed.’, ‘Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry salad, holiday recipe, Thanksgiving side dish, Christmas salad, festive salad, healthy holiday recipe