Cranberry Sauce with a Citrus Twist

Cranberry sauce is a quintessential accompaniment to many holiday meals, but have you ever considered giving it a fresh twist? By adding a burst of citrus, this recipe takes your traditional cranberry sauce to a whole new level of flavor. Here's how you can create this delightful side dish that brightens up your meal with a zesty zing.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the cranberries under cold water and set aside. Zest the orange and lemon, ensuring you only get the colorful outer peel and not the bitter white pith.

2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, lemon zest, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Stir to mix well.

3. Cook the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

4. 

   Cool and Serve: Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. As it cools, it will continue to thicken. Serve chilled or at room temperature as part of your holiday meal.

Nutritional Value and Pairings

Cranberry sauce with a citrus twist is not just delicious but also offers some nutritious benefits. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and boost overall health. The added citrus provides a dose of Vitamin C, enhancing the immune-boosting properties of the dish.

Best Side Dishes and Drinks Pairings

This cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday dishes. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, baked ham, or even a hearty nut roast for a vegetarian option. For additional sides, consider a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to echo the flavors of the sauce.

When it comes to drinks, a light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling cider complements the tangy and sweet notes of the cranberry sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water infused with a splash of lemon and orange juice would add a refreshing touch.

By incorporating this cranberry sauce with a citrus twist into your meal, you're sure to wow your guests and enhance the flavor of your holiday spread.