By Lori Walker, MS, RD | Published on October 14, 2023 | Last Updated on October 14, 2023
Cranberries are not just for Thanksgiving anymore! The Pioneer Woman’s cranberry salad recipe is a delightful blend of tart, sweet, and savory flavors that can brighten up any meal. This dish combines the tangy taste of fresh or frozen cranberries with the sweet allure of oranges, carrots, and pecans. It’s then mixed with pineapple and raspberry for an added layer of fruity freshness.
Whether you’re looking for a unique side dish to serve at your next holiday gathering or a vibrant salad to liven up your weekday meals, this cranberry salad recipe from the Pioneer Woman could be your new go-to. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to whip up a salad that’s sure to impress.
What is Pioneer Woman cranberry salad?
Pioneer Woman cranberry salad is a popular dish made famous by Ree Drummond, also known as the Pioneer Woman. This recipe incorporates fresh or frozen cranberries with various fruits and vegetables to create a flavorful and colorful salad that can be served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own.
One of the best things about this cranberry salad recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your personal preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, if you have nut allergies, you can omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. Additionally, you can add in other fruits such as apples or pears for added depth of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Pioneer Woman Cranberry Salad?
There are numerous reasons why you’ll fall in love with this cranberry salad recipe. For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal cooking skills. All you need is a food processor or blender to chop up the ingredients and mix them.
Furthermore, this salad is packed with nutritional benefits. Cranberries are high in antioxidants and have been linked to improving heart health and reducing inflammation. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, while carrots provide a good dose of beta-carotene. The pecans add healthy fats and protein to the mix, making this salad not only delicious but also nutritious.
But perhaps the most significant reason you’ll love this pioneer woman cranberry salad is its delightful combination of flavors. You get the tanginess from the cranberries, sweetness from the oranges and pineapple, and a savory touch from the carrots and pecans. It’s a perfect balance of tastes that will keep you coming back for more.
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How Does It Taste Like?
If you’re wondering how a salad with such a diverse mix of ingredients tastes, let us assure you that it’s nothing short of amazing. The cranberries provide a burst of tartness, which is balanced out by the sweetness of the other fruits and vegetables. The variety of textures from the crunchy pecans to the juicy pineapple adds another dimension to this dish.
The dressing for this cranberry salad is made with a combination of mayonnaise and raspberry juice, adding a tangy and creamy element to the mix. The result is a refreshing and satisfying salad that’s both healthy and indulgent.
Ingredients
- Cranberries: The star of the show! Cranberries are essential to this salad because they provide a tart, fruity base that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients. They also add a festive pop of color and a wealth of health benefits, including high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Bartlett Pears: These pears bring a sweet, slightly floral flavor that complements the tartness of the cranberries. Their soft texture also provides a nice contrast to the crunch of the celery and pecans.
- Celery: Celery adds a crisp, fresh element to the salad. Its light, slightly bitter taste helps balance out the sweetness of the other fruit and sugar. Plus, it contributes a satisfying crunch that elevates the overall texture.
- Light Brown Sugar: This type of sugar lends a deep, caramel-like sweetness that enhances the flavors of the fruits. It also helps mellow out the tartness of the cranberries and pineapple, creating a more balanced flavor profile.
- Toasted Pecans: Toasted pecans contribute a rich, nutty flavor and a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the fruits. They are also a traditional ingredient in many holiday dishes, making them a fitting addition to this festive salad.
- Fresh Pineapple: Pineapple brings a tropical flair to the salad with its vibrant, sweet-tart flavor. It also adds juiciness and a unique texture that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- Fresh Orange Juice: Fresh orange juice is used not only for its sweet, citrusy flavor but also for its acidity, which helps break down the fruits and blend their flavors. Plus, it adds extra moisture that helps bind the salad ingredients.
Step by Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Mixture
Begin by preparing the cranberry mixture. In a food processor or blender, combine the cranberries and celery. Pulse these ingredients until they are finely chopped. This step ensures that the cranberries and celery are finely minced, enhancing the texture and flavor of the salad.
Step 2: Add Sweetness and Citrus Zest
Transfer the finely chopped cranberry and celery mixture to a bowl. Here, add brown sugar, orange juice, and pineapple chunks. Stir everything well to ensure that the flavors meld together and evenly coat the ingredients.
The brown sugar adds sweetness, while the orange juice and pineapple contribute citrusy notes to the mixture.
Step 3: Chill to Enhance Flavors
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or if time allows, overnight. This refrigeration time is crucial for the flavors to meld, and it softens the cranberries, making them more palatable and enjoyable.
Step 4: Introduce Pears and Pecans
Once sufficiently chilled, remove the bowl from the refrigerator. Now, add in the chopped pears and toasted pecans. These additions bring contrasting textures and a delightful nutty flavor to the salad. Mix everything until the ingredients are well combined.
Step 5: Create the Dressing
In a separate bowl, create the dressing. Whisk together mayonnaise and raspberry juice until they form a smooth, harmonious mixture. This dressing provides a creamy and slightly tangy element to complement the fruity and nutty notes of the salad.
Step 6: Coat the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad and stir gently to ensure that everything is evenly coated. This step brings the entire salad together, with the dressing complementing the fruity and nutty components.
Step 7: Serve or Store
You can serve the salad immediately or choose to chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy it. An additional convenience is that this salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making it a practical and delicious dish for various occasions.
Tips
- For a sweeter salad, you can add more brown sugar or substitute it with honey.
- You can also use dried cranberries in place of fresh or frozen ones. Just be sure to rehydrate them by soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes before using.
- If you don’t have a food processor or blender, you can chop the cranberries and celery by hand. Just make sure to cut them as finely as possible.
- To save time, you can use pre-chopped pineapple chunks and toasted pecans instead of cutting them yourself.
- For added depth of flavor, you can sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the salad before serving.
Nutrition Information
How to store Pioneer Woman cranberry salad?
This cranberry salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it chilled until ready to serve. If preparing ahead of time, wait to add in the dressing until just before serving.
You can also freeze this salad for longer storage, but it may affect the texture and freshness of the ingredients once thawed. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh for maximum flavor and texture.
What other substitute can I use in Pioneer Woman cranberry salad?
If you want to switch things up or make this salad your own, here are a few ingredient substitutions you can try:
- Instead of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Swap out the orange juice for lemon or lime juice for a tangier flavor.
- Use different types of nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or cashews instead of pecans.
- Try adding in other fruits like apples, grapes, or pomegranate seeds for a twist on the classic recipe.
Pioneer Woman Cranberry Salad Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 Cups Plump and Vibrant Fresh or Frozen Cranberries
- 2 Cups Diced Ambrosial Fresh Pineapple
- 1 Cup Crunchy and Golden Toasted Pecans Lovingly Chopped
- 2 Cups Hand-Peeled and Artfully Chopped Bartlett Pears
- 1.5 Cups Elixir of Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
- 1 Cup Delicately Thinly Sliced Celery Stalks
- 1 Cup Lightly Packed Golden Amber Light Brown Sugar
Instructions
- In a food processor, pulse cranberries and celery until finely chopped.
- Transfer to a bowl, and mix in brown sugar, orange juice, and pineapple chunks until well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight to meld flavors and soften cranberries.
- After chilling, mix in chopped pears and toasted pecans.
- In a separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise and raspberry juice until smooth. Pour over the salad and stir gently to coat.
- Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for later; it stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Notes
- For a sweeter salad, you can add more brown sugar or substitute it with honey.
- You can also use dried cranberries in place of fresh or frozen ones. Just be sure to rehydrate them by soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes before using.
- If you don’t have a food processor or blender, you can chop the cranberries and celery by hand. Just make sure to cut them as finely as possible.
- To save time, you can use pre-chopped pineapple chunks and toasted pecans instead of cutting them yourself.
- For added depth of flavor, you can sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the salad before serving.
FAQs
1. What is the best way to balance the tartness of cranberries in this salad?
The sweetness from the Bartlett pears, brown sugar, and pineapple helps to balance the tartness of the cranberries. You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. Also, the orange juice acts as a natural sweetener and its acidity helps to mellow the tartness.
2. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh pineapple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple, but it’s important to note that canned pineapple tends to be sweeter than fresh pineapple due to added syrup or juice. If using canned, you may want to reduce the amount of brown sugar to avoid making the salad overly sweet.
3. How do I toast pecans for this recipe?
Toasting pecans is quite simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the pecans on a baking sheet in a single layer, and bake for about 5-10 minutes, until they’re lightly toasted and aromatic. Remember to keep a close eye on them to prevent burning
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pioneer Woman cranberry salad is a must-try recipe that will elevate your mealtime experience. With its vibrant colors, diverse flavors, and nutritional benefits, it’s a crowd-pleasing salad that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Now it’s your turn to become the pioneer in your kitchen and bring something new and delicious to the table. So why wait for Thanksgiving? Whip up this delicious cranberry salad today and enjoy the taste of fall all year round.
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more
