Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Salsa with Cream Cheese

Sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy. This cranberry salsa over cream cheese is the ultimate holiday appetizer. Serve it with crackers and watch it disappear.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries

• 1 jalapeño, de-seeded and chopped

• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, roughly chopped

• 1 bunch green onion tops, sliced

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1/2 cup sweetener of choice (e.g., sugar, honey, or a sugar substitute)

• 8 oz cream cheese (block or spreadable)

• Crackers for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salsa:

• In a food processor, combine the cranberries, jalapeño, cilantro, and green onion tops. Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed.

• Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the lemon juice and sweetener. Adjust sweetness to your taste.

2. Chill Overnight:

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.

3. Serve:

• Before serving, let the cream cheese soften slightly at room temperature for easy spreading.

• Spread the cream cheese in a thin, even layer on a serving platter or plate.

• Spoon the chilled cranberry salsa over the cream cheese, spreading it gently.

4. Enjoy:

• Serve with your favorite crackers. Guests can scoop the salsa and cream cheese together for the perfect sweet, tangy, and spicy bite!

This vibrant appetizer is perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion.