What To Do With These Vegetables Week 2016: Red, Watermelon and Black Radish Salad

C – Have you ever used black radish?

It isn’t really my favorite radish. They look cool. I love the black peel. But, it can be a tough thing to eat. The first time I bought black radishes the peel was really tough. I ended up peeling the outside. It really defeated the whole purpose of buying something with a black peel only to throw it away.

I didn’t know that if you bought young black radishes the peel can be used.

I guess I have been buying them when they were old. So how do you buy black radishes? Buy medium sized ones … not small ones. Always look for ones that are firm. Never soft. I was surprised at how many stores sold old, not firm black radishes.

Also, don’t by them if they are soaked in water. The grocery store might be trying to keep them longer on the shelf. Of course, use as soon as possible. I think that’s one of the things that gets me. I usually buy radishes and save them for a week or two before using them. Unlike red or watermelon radishes that can be saved for weeks, these get tougher as they age.

I found out that no matter what you do with these radishes they are tougher than regular radishes. So, use them sparingly. As an accent to a dish. I piled it on in this salad. But, if you look at the recipe, I say to use a thin layer. I was having a hard time eating all that I put on my plate. These radishes have a woody quality, so the thinner you can cut it the better.

What To Do With These Vegetables Week 2016: Red, Watermelon and Black Radish Salad
Recipe type: Sides
Author:
Prep time: 15 mins
Total time: 15 mins
Serves: 2 to 3
Ingredients
  • What To Do With These Vegetables Week 2016: Red, Watermelon and Black Radish Salad
  • C – Have you ever used black radish?
  • It isn’t really my favorite radish. They look cool. I love the black peel. But, it can be a tough thing to eat. The first time I bought black radishes the peel was really tough. I ended up peeling the outside. It really defeated the whole purpose of buying something with a black peel only to throw it away.
  • I didn’t know that if you bought young black radishes the peel can be used.
  • I guess I have been buying them when they were old. So how do you buy black radishes? Buy medium sized ones … not small ones. Always look for ones that are firm. Never soft. I was surprised at how many stores sold old, not firm black radishes.
  • Also, don’t by them if they are soaked in water. The grocery store might be trying to keep them longer on the shelf. Of course, use as soon as possible. I think that’s one of the things that gets me. I usually buy radishes and save them for a week or two before using them. Unlike red or watermelon radishes that can be saved for weeks, these get tougher as they age.
  • I found out that no matter what you do with these radishes they are tougher than regular radishes. So, use them sparingly. As an accent to a dish. I piled it on in this salad. But, if you look at the recipe, I say to use a thin layer. I was having a hard time eating all that I put on my plate. These radishes have a woody quality, so the thinner you can cut it the better.
  • I think black radishes are a little overrated. Use them as decoration to a dish or sparingly in a salad.
  • If you find a better way to using black radishes, please let me know. I love the color and would greatly appreciate any suggestions.
Instructions
  1. In a small mixing bowl, make the dressing by adding garlic, mustard, vinegar, red chili flakes, salt and pepper. Slowly drizzle oil while whisking to emulsify.
  2. Place a thin layer of the black radishes slices on a serving plate.
  3. Drizzle about a tablespoon of dressing over the top.
  4. Top with a few layers of watermelon radishes and drizzles more dressing over top.
  5. Top with red radishes and drizzle more dressing over top.
  6. Garnish with some freshly chopped chives and black pepper.
  7. Serve.
  8. Enjoy!

 

I think black radishes are a little overrated. Use them as decoration to a dish or sparingly in a salad.

If you find a better way to using black radishes, please let me know. I love the color and would greatly appreciate any suggestions.