Save to Pinterest This vibrant Pear and Cranberry Jalapeño Salsa makes winter produce sing. It combines crisp, sweet pears and tart cranberries with a spicy kick from jalapeño and a fresh citrusy zing, creating a salsa that is as beautiful as it is versatile. Ideal for holiday gatherings or anytime you want to impress with just fifteen minutes of prep.
This salsa made its debut at our New Years Eve cheese board and has been my go to for last minute potlucks ever since friends always ask for the recipe and leftovers never last
Ingredients
- Ripe pears diced about one and a half cups: Choose pears that yield slightly to gentle pressure but are not mushy
- Fresh cranberries chopped: Their bright tartness is key frozen works if thawed and dried first
- Small red onion finely diced: Red onion brings color and a gentle sharp flavor choose one that feels heavy for its size
- Jalapeño peppers seeded and finely chopped: Adjust the amount and include some seeds if you prefer more heat
- Fresh cilantro chopped: Select vibrant green leaves with no yellowing for a fresh grassy note
- Zest and juice of one lime: Organic limes have the most aromatic zest roll them firmly before zesting for more juice
- Honey or maple syrup for vegan option: Adds sweetness and helps mellow the cranberries look for pure products without additives
- Salt: Enhances and blends all the flavors use fine grain salt for easy dissolving
- Optional small red bell pepper diced: Adds crunch and an extra pop of color choose a firm pepper without blemishes
Instructions
- Prep the Produce:
- Dice the pears into small even pieces for a pleasant texture. Chop cranberries and red onion as finely as possible. If using, dice the bell pepper. Remove seeds from jalapeños unless you want extra heat then mince finely. Rinse and chop the cilantro.
- Combine All in Bowl:
- In a medium mixing bowl add the prepared pears cranberries red onion jalapeño cilantro and optional red bell pepper. The wide bowl allows gentle mixing so everything keeps its shape.
- Add Flavorings:
- Zest the lime directly over the bowl to catch all the oils then squeeze in the juice. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup and sprinkle with salt.
- Toss Gently:
- Use a large spoon or spatula to toss the salsa gently so the fruits stay intact. Mix until everything is evenly coated with citrus and sweetener.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste a spoonful. Add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lime if needed. If you prefer a sweeter salsa drizzle a little extra honey or maple syrup.
- Rest to Meld Flavors:
- Let the salsa sit for at least ten minutes at room temperature or chill. This allows the flavors to blend and the cranberries to soften slightly.
- Serve:
- Transfer the salsa to a serving bowl and enjoy with tortilla chips on top of grilled chicken or with your favorite cheese platter.
Save to Pinterest Brings festive color to any appetizer spread. Crunchy pear and tart cranberry are my favorite pairing for winter. The first time I made this my youngest tried to fish out all the cranberries with her tortilla chip because she liked the tart burst each one added.
Storage Tips
This salsa keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Pears and cranberries release juice over time so stir before serving again. I recommend serving it fresh for optimal crunch but it still tastes great the next day with added lime to perk it up.
Ingredient Substitutions
Substitute diced apples for pears if pears are not available or in season. If you cannot find fresh cranberries use thawed frozen ones but make sure to blot them dry first so the salsa does not get watery. Scallions can stand in for onion for a milder bite. Maple syrup makes this dish fully vegan and adds an earthy sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tortilla chips or as a relish for grilled fish chicken or pork. It complements soft goat cheese or sharp cheddar on crostini. For a festive holiday salad spoon the salsa over a bed of baby spinach and add roasted pecans.
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Salsas that bridge sweet tart and spicy flavors have roots in Latin and American fusion cuisine. Using pears and cranberries makes this a thoughtful choice for late fall and winter gatherings when these fruits are at their best. Bringing local fruit to a party always feels a little extra special.
Save to Pinterest Taste as you go because everyone has a different tolerance for sour or sweet so a final adjustment of lime or honey is often perfect.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute pears with another fruit?
Yes, apples make a great substitute for pears, offering a slightly different crunch and sweetness.
- → How do I make it spicier?
Use both jalapeños and include some seeds, or add a touch of hot sauce for extra heat.
- → Is this salsa suitable for vegan diets?
It is vegan when maple syrup is used instead of honey, making it suitable for plant-based diets.
- → How should I serve this salsa?
Serve chilled or at room temperature with chips, atop grilled proteins, or alongside cheeses.
- → How long does the salsa keep?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days for optimal freshness and flavor.
- → Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it in advance allows flavors to meld, making it even more vibrant when served.