If you are on the lookout for a salad that brings together a lively crunch, bright flavors, and a fresh, zesty touch, the Crispy Tangy Radish Salad with Fresh Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines thinly sliced radishes with a medley of greens and colorful veggies, all tossed in a beautifully balanced citrus vinaigrette that wakes up your palate. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes that feels like a sunny garden on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This salad’s magic comes from its simplicity and the fresh, wholesome ingredients that make every bite delightful. Each component plays a vital role in adding texture, flavor, or a splash of color, making this recipe both visually stunning and delicious.
- Radishes (1 bunch, about 8-10): Thinly sliced for a crisp and peppery crunch that is the star of the salad.
- Mixed greens (2 cups): A combination like arugula, spinach, and kale adds earthiness and a variety of textures.
- Cucumber (1 medium): Diced for a cool, refreshing burst that complements the spicy radishes.
- Cherry tomatoes (1/2 cup): Halved to provide subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- Red onions (1/4 cup): Thinly sliced to add a mild bite and aromatic depth.
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup): Chopped to introduce a bright, herbaceous note.
- Feta cheese (1/4 cup, optional): Crumbled for creamy tang and a lovely contrast to the crisp vegetables.
- Extra virgin olive oil (1/4 cup): Creates a smooth base for the vinaigrette and ties all flavors together.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Adds zesty acidity to the dressing.
- Fresh orange juice (1 tablespoon): Injects a sweet citrus balance against the tartness.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Provides a gentle kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 teaspoon, to taste): Sweetens the vinaigrette naturally without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Crispy Tangy Radish Salad with Fresh Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Radishes
Start by giving your radishes a good rinse under cold water to wash away any dirt. Trim the ends off and slice them very thin, using a sharp knife or mandoline if you have one. The thin slicing is key for achieving that perfect crunchy texture that is central to this salad’s appeal. Place the radish slices in a large bowl ready for tossing.
Step 2: Ready the Mixed Greens
Next, take your mix of fresh greens and give them a thorough wash to remove grit. If you have a salad spinner, now’s the time to spin them dry, or pat gently with a clean towel. Add these to the radishes in your bowl, layering on a fresh, leafy foundation that keeps the salad light but substantial.
Step 3: Add the Other Fresh Veggies
Dice the cucumber into small, bite-sized pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes to release their sweet juice. Slice the red onion very thinly so it melds smoothly without overpowering. Toss these colorful ingredients into the bowl with your radishes and greens, building a vibrant mix of flavors and textures.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Fresh Citrus Vinaigrette
In a small bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, orange juice, Dijon mustard, and honey or maple syrup. Whisk briskly until the dressing is emulsified and glossy. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting sweetness and acidity if needed. This vinaigrette will bring the perfect tang and freshness that defines this salad.
Step 5: Dress and Toss the Salad
Pour the freshly made vinaigrette over the salad ingredients in your large bowl. Using salad tongs or clean hands, toss everything gently but thoroughly, making sure each radish slice and leaf is beautifully coated. This light but flavorful dressing ensures every bite bursts with zest.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro and crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra punch of flavor and texture contrasts. The herbaceous cilantro brightens the dish further while the feta adds a creamy saltiness, elevating the salad to new heights.
Step 7: Serve with Care and Enjoy
This salad shines when served immediately, delivering crispy freshness and vibrant flavors that feel like a gift to your taste buds. If you’re making it ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss right before serving to keep everything perfectly crisp.
How to Serve Crispy Tangy Radish Salad with Fresh Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe
Garnishes
To amp up the presentation and flavor, consider garnishing your salad with toasted nuts or seeds for added crunch, or sprinkle some pomegranate arils for a pop of jewel-like color and sweet burst. Fresh herbs like mint or basil can also add a delightful aromatic twist that complements the tangy vinaigrette perfectly.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light and healthy meal. It also makes a refreshing counterpoint to heavier mains such as roasted meats or rich pasta dishes. Think of it as a crisp, lively partner that balances and brightens your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting table spread, arrange the salad on a large platter, layering radishes and greens with colorful cucumber and tomatoes artistically spread out. You might even serve the salad in individual clear glass bowls to showcase its vibrant colors, making every portion look as yummy as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad and vinaigrette separately in airtight containers. Keep the salad in the fridge for up to two days, but toss it with the dressing just before serving to retain the delightful crispness of the radishes and greens.
Freezing
Since this salad is all fresh vegetables and vinaigrette, freezing is not recommended because it will cause the delicate ingredients to wilt and lose their texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored briefly in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheating does not apply to this dish since it’s designed to be a refreshing cold salad. If you prefer your greens room temperature, simply take the salad out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving and then dress it fresh with the vinaigrette.
FAQs
Can I use other greens instead of arugula, spinach, and kale?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any fresh greens you love like romaine, butter lettuce, or even watercress. The salad is very forgiving and adaptable to your preferences.
Is there a substitute for fresh orange juice in the vinaigrette?
If you don’t have fresh oranges on hand, a splash of tangerine or grapefruit juice can work beautifully as a substitute and will keep that citrus brightness intact.
What if I don’t eat dairy? Can I skip the feta?
Definitely! The salad is delicious even without feta. You can also try dairy-free cheese or sprinkle toasted nuts for extra texture and flavor instead.
How long can I prepare this salad before serving?
For the best crunch and flavor, prepare the vegetables a few hours ahead but add the vinaigrette just before serving. This keeps everything fresh and crisp.
Can I add protein to make this salad a complete meal?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great protein additions that work wonderfully with the fresh, tangy flavors of this salad.
Final Thoughts
Trying out the Crispy Tangy Radish Salad with Fresh Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe is like inviting a burst of freshness and color to your dining table. Its bright flavors, crunchy textures, and easy preparation make it a go-to for any occasion. I promise once you make it, this salad will become one of your favorite vibrant dishes to share with friends and family. So, grab your ingredients and enjoy this lovely celebration of fresh and tangy goodness!
Print
Crispy Tangy Radish Salad with Fresh Citrus Vinaigrette Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 25m
- Cook Time: 0h 0m
- Total Time: 0h 25m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Crispy Tangy Radish Salad with Fresh Citrus Vinaigrette is a refreshing and vibrant dish featuring thinly sliced radishes, mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty citrus dressing. The salad combines crunchy textures and bright flavors, elevated with fresh herbs and optional feta cheese, making it a perfect light main or a flavorful side.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 bunch of radishes (about 8-10), trimmed and thinly sliced
- 2 cups of mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and kale)
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup of red onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup of feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Citrus Vinaigrette Dressing
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Radishes: Rinse the radishes well under cold water to remove any dirt. Trim the ends and slice them thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline. Set the radish slices aside in a large bowl.
- Prepare the Mixed Greens: Wash the mixed greens thoroughly to remove grit. Spin them dry in a salad spinner or pat gently with a clean kitchen towel. Add the greens to the bowl with the radishes.
- Add Vegetables: Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion. Add all of these to the bowl with the radishes and greens.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, Dijon mustard, and honey or maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness and acidity to your preference.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly with the vinaigrette.
- Add Final Touches: Sprinkle the chopped cilantro and crumbled feta cheese over the salad for added flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a refreshing side or light main dish. For advance preparation, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.
Notes
- For best texture, slice radishes thinly and use fresh mixed greens.
- Keep dressing separate until serving if making in advance to preserve crispness.
- Feta cheese can be omitted for a dairy-free version or substituted with a vegan cheese.
- Adjust honey/maple syrup to balance the acidity according to your taste.
- Use a mandoline for uniform radish slices if available.
