- Versatile, make-ahead cranberry salad balances tart cranberries with sweet fruit and creamy elements, fitting holidays, potlucks, or light desserts.
- Customize easily—swap cream for Greek or plant-based yogurt, add nuts for crunch, or use sugar substitutes for a healthier version.
- Prep tips: pulse cranberries, drain canned fruit, toast nuts, chill at least 2 hours; keeps up to 3 days refrigerated.
When I think of holiday meals, cranberry salad instantly comes to mind. This cranberry salad recipe is more than just a side dish, it’s a bright, refreshing addition that balances rich and savory foods. I love how it brings a burst of color and tangy sweetness to the table, making it both beautiful and satisfying. Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even as a summer potluck dish, it always sparks conversation.
The best part is its versatility. You can make it ahead, keep it chilled, and serve it straight from the fridge when guests arrive. This cranberry salad recipe fits perfectly as a festive dish, a light dessert, or even a refreshing midday treat.
Table of contents
Cranberry Salad Recipe Card
Cranberry Salad Recipe
8
servings15
minutes2
hours220
kcalA bright, refreshing cranberry salad recipe that combines tart cranberries with sweet fruit and a creamy base. Perfect for holidays or potlucks.
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Ingredients
2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
1 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup heavy whipping cream (or 1 cup Greek yogurt for lighter version)
1 apple, chopped
1,5 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions
- Start by finely chopping the cranberries in a food processor. Transfer them into a bowl and stir in the sugar. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes so the cranberries can macerate.
- In the meantime, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form (or prepare your yogurt base).
- Drain the pineapple well and chop the apple into small pieces.
- Fold together the cranberries, pineapple, apple, and mini marshmallows.
- Gently fold in the whipped cream (or yogurt) until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Top with nuts just before serving if using.
Notes
- Always drain canned fruit to avoid a watery salad.
- Make this salad a day ahead, the flavors develop better overnight.
- Swap marshmallows for dried cranberries if you want less sweetness.
Nutrition Facts
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 24g
- Protein: 2g
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What Makes This Salad Special
This cranberry salad recipe stands out because it combines tart cranberries with sweet fruit, creamy elements, and a satisfying texture. The contrast of flavors makes it more exciting than standard cranberry sauces or sides. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted for vegan diets by swapping out the dairy.
The balance of acidity and sweetness is what makes this dish shine. The cranberries keep it fresh, while additions like pineapple or apples soften the tart bite. It’s a recipe you can customize, add nuts for crunch, marshmallows for sweetness, or Greek yogurt for a lighter creamy base.
What also makes this recipe superior is its make-ahead factor. The flavors improve as they rest together in the fridge. That means less stress on busy cooking days.
What to Prep Ahead (So You’re Not Rushing Later)
One of the joys of this cranberry salad recipe is how simple it is to prepare. With a few steps done in advance, you can make assembly stress-free:
- Chop cranberries: Pulse fresh cranberries in a food processor and refrigerate in an airtight container.
- Drain fruit: If using canned pineapple or mandarin oranges, drain them well ahead of time.
- Toast nuts: Toast pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and store in a sealed jar.
- Whip cream or prepare yogurt base: Whip cream (or mix yogurt with honey) and keep chilled.
- Mix-ins ready: Keep marshmallows, apples, or celery pre-chopped in small containers.
My Must-Know Tricks
To get the most flavor and texture out of your cranberry salad recipe, here are my best-tested tips:
- Always taste your cranberries first, if they’re extra tart, add a little more sugar or honey.
- Chill the salad at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Use freshly whipped cream instead of store-bought topping for better flavor.
- Add nuts just before serving to keep them crunchy.
- Don’t skip draining canned fruits, excess liquid can water down the salad.
- For a lighter version, swap cream for Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative.
- If serving at a large gathering, double the recipe, it goes fast!
Different Ways to Enjoy the Cranberry Salad Recipe
One of the reasons I keep coming back to this cranberry salad recipe is how adaptable it is. You can tweak the ingredients depending on your mood, dietary needs, or what’s in your pantry. Here are a few of my favorite spins:
- Classic Creamy Cranberry Salad
This version blends chopped cranberries with crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and whipped cream. It’s sweet, tangy, and fluffy, almost like a dessert disguised as a salad. Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings. - Healthy Yogurt-Based Cranberry Salad
Swap out whipped cream for Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative. It’s lighter, tangy, and protein-rich, making it a guilt-free option for everyday meals. A drizzle of honey balances the tartness beautifully. - Nutty Cranberry Crunch Salad
Add toasted pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the mix. The crunchy texture pairs beautifully with the soft fruit and creamy base. I often serve this version as a holiday side dish because it feels more sophisticated. - Cranberry Orange Salad
Add fresh orange zest and segments for a citrus burst. This version is especially refreshing in the warmer months and pairs well with grilled meats or roasted chicken. - Sugar-Free Cranberry Salad
Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit to reduce added sugars. The tart flavor of the cranberries shines, and it becomes a healthier option for those watching their sugar intake.
Another fresh salad with cranberries I’m sure you will like is the cranberry Chicken Salad!
FAQs about Cranberry Salad Recipe
It keeps for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir before serving if it separates slightly.
Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia to cut down on added sugars.
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your marshmallows or other add-ins are certified gluten-free.
Absolutely. Grapes, mandarin oranges, or pears all complement cranberries beautifully.
Final Thoughts Before You Cook
This cranberry salad recipe is one of those dishes that bridges the gap between savory and sweet. It’s refreshing, colorful, and versatile enough to fit any occasion, from holiday feasts to casual potlucks. Once you make it, you’ll see how quickly it disappears from the table.
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