21 Savory Cranberry Recipes That Will Elevate Your Dinner Game
When you think of cranberries, do you only picture sweet sauces and desserts? It’s time to rethink that notion!
These vibrant, tart berries can add a unique twist to savory dishes that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
From rich meats to hearty grains, these 21 savory cranberry recipes will elevate your dinner game and keep your guests talking long after the meal is over.
1. Cranberry-Glazed Roast Chicken
This succulent roast chicken is elevated by a sweet-tart cranberry glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
A blend of fresh cranberries, honey, and balsamic vinegar creates a glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, making it a standout dish for any gathering.
Cranberry-Glazed Roast Chicken Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- Chicken: 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
- Cranberry Glaze:
- Fresh cranberries: 1 cup
- Honey: 3 tbsp
- Balsamic vinegar: 2 tbsp
- Orange juice: 2 tbsp
- Water: ¼ cup
- Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
- Rosemary (fresh, chopped): 1 tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Pepper: ½ tsp
- Chicken Rub:
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub it with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a flavorful crust.
- Make the Cranberry Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, honey, balsamic vinegar, orange juice, water, minced garlic, and rosemary.
- Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Stir occasionally.
- Blend the glaze for a smooth texture or leave it chunky, based on preference.
- Roast the Chicken:
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Brush the chicken generously with the cranberry glaze.
- Roast for about 1 hour 15 minutes (or 20 minutes per pound). Baste the chicken every 20 minutes with additional glaze for extra flavor.
- Check for Doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve with a drizzle of leftover glaze and your choice of sides like roasted vegetables or wild rice.
Cooking Tips:
- Juicier Chicken: Truss the chicken legs to retain moisture while roasting.
- Crispier Skin: Broil for 2-3 minutes after roasting, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Leftover Ideas: Use leftover cranberry glaze as a sauce for sandwiches or spread on toast.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~550
- Protein: ~40g
- Fat: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
2. Cranberry and Sage Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Tender pork tenderloin is stuffed with a savory mixture of cranberries, sage, and breadcrumbs, offering a delightful contrast of flavors.
This dish is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties, as the cranberry stuffing adds a unique twist that complements the pork beautifully.
Cranberry and Sage Stuffed Pork Tenderloin Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- Pork Tenderloin:
- 2 pork tenderloins (about 1 lb each)
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Pepper: 1 tsp
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Stuffing:
- Fresh cranberries: ½ cup (or dried, rehydrated in warm water)
- Breadcrumbs: ¾ cup (panko or fresh)
- Fresh sage (chopped): 2 tbsp
- Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
- Shallots (minced): 2
- Orange zest: 1 tsp
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Chicken broth: 2-3 tbsp (to moisten stuffing)
- Glaze (Optional):
- Balsamic vinegar: 2 tbsp
- Honey: 1 tbsp
- Dijon mustard: 1 tsp
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Tenderloin:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butterfly the pork tenderloins by slicing them lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Open them flat and pound lightly with a meat mallet for even thickness.
- Make the Stuffing:
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Stir in breadcrumbs, cranberries, sage, and orange zest. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth to moisten the mixture. The stuffing should hold together but not be soggy. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Stuff the Tenderloins:
- Spread the stuffing evenly over each butterflied tenderloin.
- Roll up the tenderloins tightly and secure them with kitchen twine.
- Sear and Roast:
- Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet. Sear the stuffed tenderloins on all sides until browned.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Glaze (Optional):
- While the pork roasts, mix balsamic vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard in a small saucepan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Brush the glaze over the tenderloins during the last 5 minutes of roasting for added flavor.
- Rest and Slice:
- Allow the tenderloins to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into medallions.
Cooking Tips:
- Cranberry Alternatives: If using dried cranberries, rehydrate them in orange juice or warm water for enhanced flavor.
- Moist Stuffing: Adjust the broth to prevent the stuffing from being too dry or overly wet.
- Knife Skills: Use a sharp knife for clean slices when serving.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~360
- Protein: ~30g
- Fat: ~12g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
3. Savory Cranberry Chutney with Brie
This tangy cranberry chutney pairs perfectly with creamy Brie cheese, making it an excellent appetizer for gatherings.
With hints of ginger and orange zest, this chutney adds a sophisticated touch to any cheese platter.
4. Cranberry Quinoa Salad
A refreshing combination of quinoa, fresh cranberries, and crunchy vegetables creates a colorful and nutritious salad.
Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with unique flavors that will delight your palate.
5. Cranberry BBQ Sauce
Add a zesty twist to your grilled meats with this homemade cranberry BBQ sauce.
The sweet and tart flavors combine perfectly with smoky grilled chicken or ribs, creating a unique flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
6. Cranberry and Feta Flatbread
This savory flatbread topped with creamy feta, fresh cranberries, and arugula is a delightful appetizer or light meal.
The combination of flavors and textures will make this dish a favorite at your next gathering.
7. Cranberry Lentil Stew
Warm up with a hearty cranberry lentil stew that combines protein-packed lentils with the tartness of cranberries.
This comforting bowl of goodness is perfect for chilly evenings and is sure to satisfy anyone at the table.
8. Cranberry-Infused Risotto
Prepare to be amazed by this creamy risotto infused with cranberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
The tart cranberries add a surprising pop to the rich, creamy rice, making this dish an elegant choice for dinner parties.
9. Cranberry and Rosemary Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables with cranberries and rosemary brings out their natural sweetness while adding a unique flavor profile.
This colorful medley makes for a stunning side dish that complements any main course.
10. Savory Cranberry Meatballs
These savory meatballs are infused with cranberries, garlic, and herbs, offering a unique flavor twist.
Serve them with toothpicks as an appetizer or on a bed of pasta for a satisfying meal.
11. Cranberry-Stuffed Acorn Squash
Baked acorn squash filled with a savory mix of cranberries, rice, nuts, and spices makes for a stunning centerpiece.
This dish is not only beautiful but also packed with unique flavors, perfect for a festive dinner.
12. Cranberry and Blue Cheese Crostini
These crostini topped with creamy blue cheese and tangy cranberry spread create a fabulous appetizer.
The combination of textures and flavors makes each bite a delightful experience.
13. Cranberry and Cilantro Salsa
This refreshing salsa combines fresh cranberries, cilantro, and lime, offering a unique twist on traditional salsa.
Serve it with grilled fish or as a topping for tacos to impress your dinner guests.
14. Cranberry-Infused Vinaigrette
Elevate your salads with this homemade cranberry-infused vinaigrette, balancing tartness and sweetness perfectly.
Drizzle it over mixed greens, roasted vegetables, or even cold pasta salads for a burst of flavor.
15. Cranberry and Wild Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines nutty wild rice with cranberries and spices, creating a hearty side dish.
It’s an excellent addition to any holiday table and pairs beautifully with roasted meats.
16. Cranberry and Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts sautéed with crispy bacon and tart cranberries create a delicious side dish that’s hard to resist.
The combination of savory and sweet flavors will have everyone coming back for more.
17. Cranberry-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Bright bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of quinoa, cranberries, and spices make a colorful and nutritious meal.
These stuffed peppers are perfect for meal prep and offer a delightful surprise with every bite.
18. Cranberry and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Chicken breasts are filled with a savory mixture of spinach, cream cheese, and cranberries, creating a dish that’s as flavorful as it is beautiful.
Serve with a side of roasted potatoes for a complete meal that is sure to impress.
19. Cranberry and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew combines chickpeas, cranberries, and spices, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.
It’s packed with protein and flavor, and the cranberries add a delightful sweetness to the dish.
20. Savory Cranberry Pumpkin Soup
This creamy pumpkin soup is enhanced with the tartness of cranberries, creating a unique fall-inspired dish.
Serve it in a warm bowl with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for added texture.
21. Cranberry and Herb Grilled Shrimp
Grilled shrimp marinated in a zesty cranberry-herb mix is a delicious and unique seafood dish.
Serve with a side of rice or salad for an impressive yet easy-to-make dinner.
Conclusion
With these 21 savory cranberry recipes, you’re now equipped to elevate your dinner game and impress your guests with unique flavors.
Whether you’re looking for a stunning centerpiece or a simple side dish, cranberries can add a delightful twist to your meals.