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Gingery Cranberry Salsa Recipe

4.6 from 101 reviews

This Gingery Cranberry Salsa is a vibrant and tangy condiment perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a zesty twist. It combines fresh cranberries with spicy jalapeño, pungent ginger, and fresh herbs, balanced with lime juice and a touch of sugar. Optionally enhanced with crunchy salted pistachios, this no-cook salsa bursts with fresh flavors and a lovely texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Cranberry Mixture

  • 1 12-ounce bag of fresh cranberries
  • 1/3 cup sugar

Aromatics and Herbs

  • Half of a jalapeño, ribs and seeds removed
  • 1-inch knob fresh ginger root, peeled
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves

Seasonings

  • Juice and zest of 1-2 limes (to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)

Optional

  • 1/2 cup salted roasted pistachios

Instructions

  1. Chop Cranberries: Place the fresh cranberries in a food processor and pulse carefully until they break down into a very finely chopped texture. Avoid over-processing to prevent pureeing. Transfer the chopped cranberries to a mixing bowl.
  2. Combine with Sugar: Add 1/3 cup of sugar to the bowl with cranberries and toss well to combine, allowing the cranberries to begin softening and sweetening.
  3. Chop Aromatics and Mix: In the food processor, add the jalapeño (seeds and ribs removed for less heat), peeled ginger, garlic clove, cilantro leaves, and parsley leaves. Pulse until finely chopped. Mix this aromatic herb mixture into the cranberry bowl.
  4. Add Seasonings: Add the juice and zest of 1-2 limes according to taste, along with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir everything together thoroughly to blend the flavors.
  5. Let It Rest (Optional): For optimal flavor, cover the salsa and let it rest in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. This resting period allows the cranberries to tenderize and absorb the flavors, resulting in a juicy and harmonious salsa.
  6. Add Pistachios (Optional): Just before serving, you can add a crunchy texture by pulsing the salted roasted pistachios in the food processor until finely chopped, then folding them into the salsa.

Notes

  • Removing seeds and ribs from the jalapeño reduces the heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
  • Letting the salsa rest is optional but recommended for better flavor integration.
  • Salted roasted pistachios add a crunchy texture and savory contrast but can be omitted for a nut-free version.
  • This salsa is best served chilled and pairs excellently with grilled meats, crackers, or as a festive dip.

Keywords: cranberry salsa, holiday salsa, gingery salsa, fresh cranberry dip, spicy cranberry condiment, no-cook salsa, festive salsa