Brighten your holiday table with this festive cranberry salad. Combining tart cranberries, sweet fruits, and a creamy topping, this salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, this cranberry salad is sure to become a holiday tradition. Ready to add a splash of color to your festive feast?
Ingredients:
- 1 package (12 oz) fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Prepare the cranberries: Rinse the cranberries and chop them finely using a food processor or by hand. Transfer the chopped cranberries to a large mixing bowl.
- Sweeten the cranberries: Add the granulated sugar to the cranberries, mix well, and let them sit for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This step helps to reduce the tartness of the cranberries.
- Combine the fruits: After the cranberries have macerated, drain any excess liquid. Stir in the drained crushed pineapple, mandarin oranges, halved grapes, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until it begins to thicken. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until soft peaks form.
- Fold in the whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cranberry and fruit mixture until well combined.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Conclusion and Tips: This festive cranberry salad is a perfect addition to your holiday menu, offering a refreshing contrast to savory dishes. For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the whipped cream. Feel free to add other fruits or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste. We’d love to hear how this salad becomes a favorite at your holiday gatherings!
Do you have a special twist on this cranberry salad? Share your tips and variations in the comments below. Let’s make every holiday meal a festive celebration together!