Cranberry Jalapeño Salsa (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Cranberry Jalapeño Salsa
Cranberry jalapeño salsa is a vibrant and zesty condiment that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors. This classic version brings together fresh cranberries, jalapeños, and a hint of lime, creating a refreshing dip that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or summer barbecues. The bright red of the cranberries and the green of the jalapeños make it a visually stunning addition to any table, and it pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, grilled meats, or even as a topping for tacos.
Historically, salsa has deep roots in Mexican cuisine, where it has been enjoyed for centuries. The combination of fruits and spices in salsa is not only delicious but also a way to preserve the harvest. This cranberry jalapeño salsa, while not traditional in the sense of classic Mexican salsas, showcases how regional ingredients can be adapted to create something uniquely American. It’s a testament to the creativity of home cooks who love to experiment with flavors.
Making this salsa is a breeze, and it’s a great way to use up leftover cranberries after the holidays. Just be careful when handling jalapeños; they can pack quite a punch! A little tip: if you want to tone down the heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping. This salsa is not only delicious but also a conversation starter—just be prepared for the inevitable “who brought the salsa?” question at your next gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for more, so you might want to make a double batch!
Serve this salsa chilled or at room temperature, and watch as it disappears faster than you can say “jalapeño.” Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a fresh snack, this cranberry jalapeño salsa is sure to impress. Just remember, the only thing better than a good salsa is a good salsa that doesn’t require a trip to the store for last-minute ingredients. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 jalapeño pepper
- 0.5 cup red onion
- 0.25 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing 12 ounces of fresh cranberries under cold water. Discard any that are soft or blemished, as they can affect the flavor of your salsa.
- In a food processor, combine the cleaned cranberries, 1 jalapeño pepper (stem removed), and 0.5 cup of chopped red onion. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but not pureed; you want some texture.
- Next, add 0.25 cup of fresh cilantro to the food processor. This herb adds a fresh flavor that complements the sweetness of the cranberries and the heat of the jalapeño.
- Squeeze in 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice. This not only adds brightness but also helps to balance the sweetness of the cranberries.
- Sprinkle in 0.5 teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of sugar. The sugar will enhance the natural sweetness of the cranberries, while the salt will bring all the flavors together.
- Pulse the mixture again until everything is well combined. Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning if necessary; you might want a bit more lime juice or salt.
- Transfer the salsa to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salsa a good stir. This will help redistribute the ingredients and ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Serve the salsa chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips, grilled meats, or as a topping for tacos. Enjoy the sweet and spicy explosion!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the flavors will continue to develop, so it might taste even better the next day!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 50
- Carbs g: 12
- Protein g: 1
- Fat g: 0
- Sugar g: 6
