If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant dish that bursts with crisp textures and bright flavors, the Cucumber Radish Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. This salad brings together the cool crunch of cucumbers and the peppery bite of radishes, all beautifully balanced by a zesty lemon and dill dressing that feels like a breath of spring in every bite. Quick to prepare and endlessly refreshing, this salad suits any occasion where you want something light, healthy, and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple and each one plays its part perfectly—from the cool cucumber to the sharp radishes and the herbaceous dill, every component elevates the salad’s flavor and texture. Plus, the lemon dill dressing ties everything together with a punch of brightness and subtle creaminess.
- Cucumber, 2 cups, thinly sliced: Provides a crisp, hydrating base that’s cool and refreshing.
- Radishes, 1 cup, thinly sliced: Adds a peppery crunch that contrasts beautifully with cucumber.
- Fresh dill, 2 tablespoons, chopped: Brings a fragrant, tangy herbal note that enlivens the salad.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Creates a smooth richness that balances the acidity in the dressing.
- Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Gives a bright, citrusy zing that wakes up the salad’s flavors.
- Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon: Adds a subtle depth and slight sharpness to the dressing.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Enhances all the natural flavors in the salad.
- Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon: Offers a gentle heat and complexity to finish the dressing.
How to Make Cucumber Radish Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by thinly slicing your cucumbers and radishes. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline ensures you get uniform slices that’ll offer a perfect crunch in every bite. Placing them together in a mixing bowl sets you up for easy tossing later.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they become a smooth, well-emulsified dressing. This step is key to ensuring that every slice will be evenly coated with tangy, creamy flavor.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Pour your freshly made lemon dill dressing over the cucumber and radish slices. Gently toss them using salad tongs or clean hands to coat the vegetables evenly without bruising or breaking them up.
Step 4: Add the Fresh Dill
Sprinkle the chopped fresh dill over the salad and give it one last mix. This final touch brings a burst of aromatic freshness that truly elevates the entire dish.
Step 5: Let the Salad Rest or Serve Immediately
You can enjoy your Cucumber Radish Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe right away for a crisp, lively crunch or refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes. Resting allows the dressing to meld beautifully with the vegetables, deepening the flavors.
How to Serve Cucumber Radish Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
For a little flair, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions on top. These add a subtle nutty layer or mild oniony crunch, making each bite even more memorable.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted fish, or even alongside a hearty sandwich. Its bright acidity and crispness offer a fantastic contrast to savory, rich mains.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the salad in clear glass bowls to showcase all those fresh colors. You might also layer it with creamy yogurt or feta cheese for an indulgent twist, or pile it onto open-faced toasts for a vibrant appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will hold well for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch and flavor.
Freezing
This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the high water content in cucumbers and radishes, which would become mushy upon thawing.
Reheating
Because this is a fresh, cold salad, reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply give it a gentle toss and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I substitute the dill with another herb?
Definitely! Fresh parsley, cilantro, or tarragon can provide unique flavor twists, though dill’s distinctive aroma pairs best with the lemon and mustard in this dressing.
What type of cucumber works best for this salad?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin, making the slices tender and less watery.
How spicy are the radishes in this salad?
Radishes add a crisp, peppery bite, but the spice level is mild and balanced by the lemon dressing. If you prefer less heat, opt for milder varieties like watermelon radishes.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely. The lemon dill dressing can be whisked and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick stir before tossing your salad.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes! This salad is completely plant-based and makes a wonderful vegan option that’s fresh, flavorful, and nutritious.
Final Thoughts
I can’t stress enough how the Cucumber Radish Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe quickly becomes a go-to for refreshing, healthy eating. It’s simple, elegant, and loaded with delightful flavors that brighten up any mealtime. Give it a try—you’ll love how effortlessly it brings a fresh burst of sunshine to your plate.
Print
Cucumber Radish Salad with Lemon Dill Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and quick Cucumber Radish Salad featuring thinly sliced cucumbers and radishes tossed in a light lemon-Dijon dressing with fresh dill. Perfect as a crisp side dish or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup radishes, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Herbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Thinly slice cucumbers and radishes using a sharp knife or mandoline for even, crisp slices. Place the sliced vegetables into a mixing bowl.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers and radishes. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add Fresh Dill: Sprinkle chopped fresh dill over the salad and toss again lightly to distribute the herb throughout.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for fresh crunch or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
- Using a mandoline ensures uniform thin slices for better texture.
- Refrigerating the salad enhances the flavors as the dressing infuses the vegetables.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste for preferred seasoning levels.
- Add a touch of sweetness with a teaspoon of honey if desired to balance the tartness.
- This salad is best served fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
