There is something to be said for the “splurt” sound made when dumping a can of cranberry sauce into a serving bowl. Ditto for the ridges etched in the sides of the sauce. Thanksgiving, after all, is about tradition.But the official condiment of Turkey Day can be so much more. And without much more effort.The easiest way is to simply follow the directions on the back of a bag of fresh cranberries, which usually involves dumping the cranberries, a somewhat scary amount of sugar and a bit of water into a saucepan and boiling until thick.Getting more creative — and more flavorful — isn’t hard. These three quick recipes are jammed with flavor. The first, a cooked chutney-style sauce that sports warm, spicy flavors, is the easiest. The second offers a sweeter take; it’s studded with dried fruit.Or for something a little different, try the third, a spicy uncooked cranberry salsa. The heat of the jalapeño is just enough to complement the other flavors of the meal without competing.

CRANBERRY CHUTNEY—Yield: 8-10 servings

1 (12-ounce) jar mango chutney1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries1/2 cup white wine1/4 cup sugarPinch salt

Procedure:1. In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer 10 minutes, stirring frequently.2. Remove from heat and let stand or refrigerate until cooled and thickened.

DRIED FRUIT CRANBERRY COMPOTE—Yield: 8-10 servings

1 (12-ounce bag) fresh cranberries1 cup apple cider1/4 teaspoon salt3/4 cup diced dried apricots3/4 cup diced dates1/4 cup diced candied gingerroot

Procedure:1. In medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine all ingredients. Bring to boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer 10 minutes, stirring frequently.2. Remove from heat and let stand or refrigerate until cooled and thickened.

SPICY CRANBERRY SALSA—Yield: 8-10 servings

1 small red onion2 cloves garlic1 fresh jalapeño, seeds and veins removed1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries1/2 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves1 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper2 small apples, peeled and cored, cut into small chunks2 tablespoons agave syrup or honey2 tablespoons cider vinegar

Procedure:1. In food processor, combine onion, garlic and jalapeño. Process until finely minced.2. Add remaining ingredients and pulse until finely and evenly chopped.