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Fresh Radish and Cucumber Cold Salad Recipe with Tangy Rice Vinegar Dressing

fresh radish and cucumber cold salad - featured image

A quick, easy, and refreshing cold salad featuring thinly sliced radishes and cucumbers tossed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing with a subtle hint of sweetness and nuttiness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bunch (8-10 medium) radishes, thinly sliced
  • 1 large English cucumber or 2 smaller regular cucumbers, thinly sliced or cut into half-moons
  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • A handful of fresh cilantro or mint leaves, roughly chopped
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the radishes and cucumbers thoroughly. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the radishes into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch or 3 mm thick). Slice the cucumber into similar thin rounds or half-moons if using regular cucumbers.
  2. In a small bowl or jar, combine 3 tablespoons (45 ml) rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) soy sauce (optional), 1 teaspoon (5 ml) toasted sesame oil, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) honey or maple syrup, and the minced garlic clove. Whisk or shake vigorously until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
  3. Place the sliced radishes and cucumbers in a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced green onions and chopped herbs (cilantro or mint). Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently but thoroughly until evenly coated.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
  5. Give the salad a quick toss before serving. Serve chilled as a side dish, light snack, or alongside grilled proteins.

Notes

Soak radishes in cold water for 5 minutes before slicing to mellow their bite if desired. Use fresh rice vinegar for best flavor. Toasted sesame oil adds important nuttiness. Toss salad gently to avoid bruising vegetables. Best served within 1-2 days and kept chilled. Variations include adding jalapeños for heat or swapping herbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: radish salad, cucumber salad, rice vinegar dressing, cold salad, refreshing salad, easy salad recipe, vegan salad, gluten-free salad