Jun
Growing Advice
What to Do with a Glut of Radishes
If you’ve been blessed with a bumper crop of radishes, you’re in for a treat. These vibrant, peppery vegetables are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some creative and delicious ways to make the most of your radish bounty.
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Fresh Salads
Radish and Cucumber Salad
A simple and refreshing way to use radishes is in a salad. Slice radishes thinly and mix them with cucumber slices, dill, and a light vinaigrette made of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This crunchy, tangy salad is perfect for a hot summer day.
Radish Slaw
Create a colourful and zesty slaw by combining shredded radishes with carrots, red cabbage, and a dressing of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and mustard. This slaw is a great side dish for barbecues and picnics.
Pickled Radishes
Quick Pickled Radishes
Pickling is an excellent way to preserve radishes and enhance their flavour. To make quick pickled radishes, slice them thinly and place them in a jar. In a saucepan, bring to a boil a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Pour the hot brine over the radishes, let them cool, and refrigerate. They’ll be ready to eat in a few hours and can last for several weeks.
Spicy Pickled Radishes
For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños and garlic to your pickling brine. This variation pairs wonderfully with tacos, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards.
Roasted Radishes
Simple Roasted Radishes
Roasting radishes mellows their peppery bite and brings out their natural sweetness. Toss whole or halved radishes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven at 200°C for 20-25 minutes until they are tender and caramelised. Serve as a side dish or mix with roasted potatoes for a colourful medley.
Herbed Roasted Radishes
Enhance roasted radishes by adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley before roasting. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving adds a delicious touch.
Radish Greens Pesto
Don’t throw away those radish greens! They can be used to make a delicious pesto. Blend radish greens with garlic, nuts (such as pine nuts or almonds), Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. This vibrant pesto is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip.
Radish Chips
For a healthy and crunchy snack, try making radish chips. Slice radishes thinly, toss with a little olive oil, salt, and your favourite spices (like paprika or garlic powder), then bake in a single layer at 150°C for about 30-40 minutes until crispy. Let them cool before serving.
Radish Stir-Fry
Radishes can add a unique crunch and flavour to stir-fries. Slice them into thin rounds or matchsticks and add them to your favourite stir-fry recipe. They pair well with ingredients like bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and chicken or tofu.
Radish Soup
Radishes can also be used to make a light and flavourful soup. Sauté onions and garlic in a pot, add sliced radishes and vegetable broth, and simmer until the radishes are tender. Blend the soup until smooth, and season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice. Serve hot or chilled, garnished with fresh herbs.
Radish Sandwiches
Radish and Butter Sandwich
A classic French snack, the radish and butter sandwich is simple yet delicious. Spread butter on slices of crusty baguette, top with thinly sliced radishes, and sprinkle with sea salt.
Radish Avocado Toast
Upgrade your avocado toast by adding thinly sliced radishes on top. The crunch and slight heat of the radishes complement the creamy avocado perfectly.
Now is a great time to sow another crop!
A glut of radishes is a delightful problem to have, offering numerous culinary possibilities. From fresh salads and pickles to roasted dishes and creative snacks, there are countless ways to enjoy these vibrant vegetables. So, roll up your sleeves, get creative in the kitchen, and make the most of your radish harvest!
