Simple Cucumber and Radish Salad is a refreshing, light, and crunchy dish that perfectly balances mild and peppery flavors. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and makes an excellent Side Dish for any meal, especially during warm weather when fresh produce is abundant. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a vibrant Salad that adds both color and nutrition to your table.
Simple Cucumber and Radish Salad: Easy and Delicious Recipes
Looking for a fresh, crisp, and healthy salad that’s quick to prepare? The Simple Cucumber and Radish Salad is your perfect go-to! This vibrant dish combines crunchy cucumbers and peppery radishes with a light, tangy dressing—making it ideal for summer days, light lunches, or as a Side Dish at Salad. Let’s dive into what makes this salad so irresistible and how you can make it your own.
What is in Simple Cucumber and Radish Salad?
This refreshing salad features a handful of simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly:
- Cucumber:Â The star of the salad, providing hydration and crunch.
- A handful of radishes:Â Add a spicy, peppery flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
- Red onion:Â Thinly sliced for a mild, sweet onion flavor.
- Dill (optional): Fresh dill adds a lovely herbal note, but it’s optional based on your preference.
- Olive oil:Â For a rich, smooth dressing.
- Vinegar:Â Typically apple cider or white vinegar for a tangy kick.
- Honey:Â A touch of sweetness balances the acidity.
- Salt to taste:Â Enhances all the flavors.
Key Takeaways
- Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for a light, healthy meal or side dish.
- Customizable with herbs and other add-ins.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a short period.
Health Benefits
This salad isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with health benefits:
- Hydration:Â Cucumbers are high in water content, helping you stay hydrated.
- Digestive health:Â Radishes and onions contain fiber that promotes digestion.
- Rich in antioxidants:Â Radishes and onions provide antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
- Low in calories:Â Ideal for weight management without sacrificing flavor.
- Vitamins and minerals:Â Provides vitamin C, potassium, and other essential nutrients.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
While best enjoyed fresh, this salad can be prepared ahead of time:
- Preparation:Â Slice the vegetables and assemble the dressing separately.
- Storage:Â Keep the vegetables and dressing refrigerated in airtight containers.
- Shelf life:Â Consume within 24 hours to maintain freshness and crunchiness.
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What to Serve with Simple Cucumber and Radish Salad
This light and refreshing salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile side or even a main course. Here are some delicious ideas to complement your cucumber and radish salad:
- Grilled Proteins:Â Chicken breasts, salmon fillets, shrimp, or steak add heartiness to balance the crispness of the salad.
- Barbecue and Grilled Vegetables:Â Perfect alongside grilled corn, zucchini, or veggie skewers for a summer feast.
- Sandwiches and Wraps:Â Use as a fresh side for turkey, chicken, or veggie wraps.
- Light Pasta or Grain Bowls:Â Tossed with quinoa, couscous, or pasta for a satisfying, healthy meal.
- Seafood Dishes:Â Great with oysters, ceviche, or fish tacos.
- Picnic or Potluck Platters:Â Adds a refreshing element to any outdoor spread.
Recommended Tools to Make This Recipe
Creating this simple cucumber and radish salad is quick and straightforward, especially with the right tools:
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing cucumbers, radishes, and onions evenly and thinly.
- Cutting Board:Â Provides a safe, stable surface for chopping.
- Salad Bowl:Â For mixing and serving your salad.
- Measuring Spoons:Â To accurately measure olive oil, vinegar, and honey.
- Whisk or Fork:Â For blending the dressing until smooth and well combined.
- Peeler (Optional):Â If you prefer thinly peeled cucumbers or radishes for a different texture.
- Tongs or Salad Servers:Â For tossing and serv
Variations
Feel free to customize this salad:
- Add cherry tomatoes for extra color and sweetness.
- Incorporate avocado slices for creaminess.
- Sprinkle some feta or goat cheese for richness.
- Use lemon juice instead of vinegar for a citrus twist.
- Include fresh mint or basil for additional herbal notes.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad pairs well with many dishes and occasions:
- As a Side:Â Serve alongside grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables.
- Light Lunch:Â Enjoy it on its own or with crusty bread for a quick, healthy meal.
- Picnics & Potlucks:Â Its refreshing qualities make it perfect for outdoor gatherings.
- Topping:Â Use as a topping for tacos or open-faced sandwiches.
- Party Appetizer:Â Serve in small bowls or cups with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
Storing Leftovers
To keep your salad fresh and tasty:
- Container:Â Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Dressings:Â Keep the dressing separate, or toss the salad just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Shelf Life:Â Best enjoyed within 24 hours for optimal crunch and flavor.
- Recycling:Â If the salad loses some crispness, refresh it by adding a splash of vinegar or olive oil before serving again.
Helpful Tips
Maximize your salad’s flavor and texture with these tips:
- Thin Slicing:Â Use a sharp knife or mandoline for uniform, thin slices of cucumber and radish.
- Balance Flavors: Adjust honey and vinegar to suit your taste—more sweetness or acidity as preferred.
- Herb Freshness: Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor; dried herbs won’t provide the same impact.
- Chill Before Serving:Â Let the salad sit in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor and crispness.
- Presentation:Â Garnish with extra dill or herbs for a beautiful, appetizing look.
Simple Cucumber and Radish Salad
Simple Cucumber and Radish Salad is a perfect example of how minimal ingredients can come together to create a delicious and nutritious dish.

Ingredients
Instructions
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Wash the cucumber and radishes thoroughly.
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Cut the cucumber into small pieces (diced or sliced, as you prefer).
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Slice the radishes thinly. The red onion should be peeled and sliced into half rings.
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Sliced radishes, red onion half rings, and diced cucumber should all be combined in a medium bowl.
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If using dill, chop it finely and add it to the bowl with the vegetables.
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In a small bowl or cup, add the olive oil, 1 teaspoon vinegar, and 1 teaspoon honey, whisking to mix.
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Drizzle the bowl of vegetables with the dressing.
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Make sure the dressing coats every vegetable in the salad by gently tossing it.
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Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 2 ServingCalories:84kcalTotal Fat:8gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol:64mgSodium:19mgPotassium:203mgTotal Carbohydrate:5gDietary Fiber: 2gSugars: 1gProtein:2gVitamin A: 888IUVitamin C: 14mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg
Note
Note 1: You can adjust the amount of vinegar and honey to your preference for a tangier or sweeter dressing.
Note 2: You can add bell peppers or cherry tomatoes, for example.
Note 3: A sprinkle of black pepper can add another layer of flavor.
Note 4: For a creamier dressing, you could add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.