Looking for a festive appetizer that’s as stunning as it is delicious? This Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Salsa is a show-stopper that’s perfect for holiday gatherings—or anytime you need an easy, crowd-pleasing dish. The tart cranberries, vibrant lime, fresh cilantro, and a kick of jalapeño come together for a flavor explosion that’s perfectly balanced with creamy, tangy cream cheese. Pair it with crackers, baguette slices, or, let’s be honest, enjoy it by the spoonful!
Recipe from @jackfruitfulkitchen
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Festive Colors: The bright red of the cranberries, the green cilantro, and the creamy white cheese create a dish that’s undeniably holiday-ready.
2. Sweet Meets Spicy: Pure maple syrup balances the tartness of the cranberries while jalapeño adds just the right amount of heat.
3. Easy to Make: With just a food processor and a few fresh ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
4. Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on a platter for a party or keep it all to yourself for a cozy snack night.
Tips for Success
• Make Ahead: The salsa can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. This gives the flavors even more time to meld. Just assemble with cream cheese before serving.
• Add Your Twist: Try swapping lime for orange juice for a sweeter citrus kick, or use honey instead of maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.
• Customize the Heat: Love spice? Leave the seeds in your jalapeño or add a second one for more kick!
Perfect Pairings
This Cranberry Salsa pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:
• Use it as a topping for roasted turkey or chicken.
• Mix leftovers into your morning scrambled eggs for a savory-sweet twist.
• Add it as a filling to grilled cheese for an elevated lunch.
Cranberry Salsa Appetizer
Looking for a festive appetizer that’s as stunning as it is delicious? This Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Salsa is a show-stopper that’s perfect for holiday gatherings—or anytime you need an easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 large lime (juice only)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (seeded for less heat, if desired)
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 8 oz block cream cheese
- Baguette slices or crackers for serving (or your favorite utensil—like a spoon!)
Instructions
- Add the cranberries and lime juice to a food processor. Blend until finely chopped, scraping down the sides as needed. Transfer to a large bowl.
- Stir in the maple syrup, garlic, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and salt. Mix well and let it sit for at least 20 minutes. This resting time allows the cranberries to absorb all the vibrant flavors.
- Spread the cream cheese onto a serving plate or platter. Scoop the cranberry salsa over the top, spreading it out evenly.
- Serve with sliced baguette, crackers, or anything else you like to scoop with. It’s sweet, tangy, spicy, creamy perfection!
