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Here’s a detailed, unique article on Grandma’s Cranberry Salad with a full step-by-step method:

Grandma’s Cranberry Salad: A Timeless Holiday Delight

Cranberry salad is more than just a dish; it’s a cherished tradition, often carried down through generations. With its perfect balance of tart cranberries and sweet, creamy accents, Grandma’s Cranberry Salad is a nostalgic treat that brings warmth to any family gathering. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual dinner, this salad adds a burst of color, flavor, and joy to the table. Here’s a complete guide to making it from scratch, just like Grandma did.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this classic cranberry salad, gather the following ingredients:

Fresh cranberries – 12 ounces (about 3 cups)
Granulated sugar – 1 cup
Orange juice – 1/2 cup (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
Apple – 1 medium, peeled and diced
Pineapple – 1/2 cup crushed (drained if canned)
Mini marshmallows – 1 cup
Chopped walnuts or pecans – 1/2 cup (optional, for a crunchy texture)
Whipped cream or plain yogurt – 1 cup (optional for a creamier salad)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberries

Start by rinsing the fresh cranberries thoroughly under cold water. Discard any soft or bruised berries. Place the cranberries in a medium saucepan.

Step 2: Cook the Cranberries

Add the granulated sugar and orange juice to the saucepan. Turn the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries begin to pop and the mixture thickens slightly. This usually takes about 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow the cranberry mixture to cool to room temperature.

Tip: For a smoother texture, you can pulse the mixture lightly in a blender or food processor, but some people prefer leaving it chunky for extra texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Fruit

While the cranberry mixture cools, peel and dice the apple into small, bite-sized pieces. Drain the pineapple if using canned and chop if needed. Combine these fruits in a large mixing bowl.