Apples & cranberries- meant to be together

Today is officially the first day of fall, so even if the weather feels like summer, it might be time to accept that it’s almost time to put the flip flops away. Of course, that also means it’s time to get the boots out of the closet and possibly shop for a pair or two. See- there’s happiness to be found in cooler weather!

Although I often think about summer as the season of fresh produce, fall certainly has its fair share. Cranberries are one of those pieces of produce that I eagerly anticipate. I have learned that I can only find fresh cranberries between late September and the end of the year. Then, they’re gone. And I’m sad because I really like working with them. Of course for all the time in between, dried cranberries tend to work in a number of recipes, including this one.

While I’m a fan of plain, old cranberry sauce, I also like seeing how cranberries pair with other ingredients. Apples are a natural match. This Apple Cranberry Compote is a wonderful fall dish. I’ve used it as a topping for crostini at Tapas Monday or as an accompaniment to cheese and crackers. The apples provide some sweetness while the cranberries keep it tart. They really do play nicely together.

If you have a Sunday afternoon of football watching, a neighborhood get together, or a pumpkin carving party in your future, make a batch of this compote. Then choose crackers, crostini, or what have you, and you’ve got a fabulous fall-themed snack!