Prepare the fruit: Rinse the cranberries well and pick out any that are soft or spoiled. Slice the orange into pieces, keeping the peel on for that signature tangy zestiness. Remove any seeds to avoid bitterness later on.

Blend everything together: In a food processor, combine the cranberries, orange chunks, and pineapple (if using). Pulse several times until the mixture is finely chopped but not puréed—you want a slightly coarse texture that still has some bite.

Sweeten and season: Transfer the mixture to a medium mixing bowl. Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until the sugar begins to dissolve and the relish looks glossy and evenly combined.

Let it chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the relish into an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving—overnight is even better. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, softening the tartness of the cranberries and enhancing the citrus notes.

Serve and enjoy: Give the relish a quick stir before serving. Spoon it into a decorative bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of orange zest or a few fresh cranberries for presentation. The texture should be refreshing, slightly chunky, and bursting with flavor.