This gingery cranberry salsa is the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. It’s an unexpected yet delightful take on traditional salsa, ideal for holiday gatherings or as a unique topping for everyday meals. With fresh cranberries, zesty ginger, and a touch of heat, this salsa adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Serve it with tortilla chips, atop roasted meats, or as a vibrant condiment for your holiday table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive and Vibrant: Perfect for holidays or special occasions.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes with no cooking required.
- Versatile: Use as a dip, topping, or side dish.
- Healthy: Made with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Salsa:

- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Gingery Cranberry Salsa
Prep the Ingredients

- Rinse the cranberries and pat them dry.
- Finely chop the red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
Combine the Ingredients
- Use a food processor to pulse the cranberries until they are roughly chopped. Be careful not to over-process.
- Transfer the chopped cranberries to a mixing bowl.
Add Flavor

- Stir in the red onion, jalapeño, ginger, cilantro, sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt.
- Mix well to combine and let the salsa sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve
- Serve chilled or at room temperature with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a topping for grilled chicken, turkey, or fish.
Variations
- Add Fruit: Mix in diced apples, pears, or pomegranate seeds for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Make It Spicier: Add more jalapeño or include a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Lower the Sugar: Use honey or a natural sweetener as a substitute.
- Herbal Twist: Substitute cilantro with fresh mint or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator:
- Transfer the salsa to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days to allow the flavors to develop and enhance.
Freezer:
- While it’s best fresh, you can freeze the salsa if needed.
- Put it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator and stir thoroughly to blend the ingredients again.
Recipe Details
Serving: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: None
FAQ
1. Can I make this salsa ahead of time?
Yes, this salsa tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together.
2. Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! the cranberries to thaw before using them in the recipe.
3. What can I serve with this salsa?
Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or as a topping for roasted meats, tacos, or grilled vegetables.
4. How do I adjust the sweetness?
You can reduce or increase the sugar based on your taste. For a healthier option, substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup.