Easy & Refreshing Cucumber Radish Salad with Tangy Dill Vinaigrette
Experience the delight of a refreshingly crisp and vibrant cucumber and radish salad. This recipe offers a delightful medley of crunchy cucumbers, zesty radishes, and aromatic fresh dill, all harmoniously tossed in a tangy, dairy-free vinaigrette. It’s a perfectly balanced, light, and flavorful side dish that brightens any meal.
Get ready to transform your garden-fresh cucumbers and radishes, farmer’s market finds, or even simple store-bought produce into an unbelievably easy and incredibly delicious cucumber radish salad. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation.
This particular cucumber and radish salad takes a refreshing twist on the classic cucumber dill salad. While many traditional cucumber salads often feature a creamy base, we’ve opted for a lighter, brighter approach with a zesty vinaigrette dressing. This choice not only keeps the salad dairy-free but also allows the natural, fresh flavors of the vegetables to truly shine through.
It’s an incredibly easy side dish that boasts a light, refreshing profile, packed with an abundance of fresh, crisp flavors. From the first bite, you’ll understand why we’re so excited for you to try this simple yet impactful recipe. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal produce or add a burst of freshness to your plate any time of year.
While this salad truly excels during the warm summer months, offering a cooling and crisp counterpoint to heavier dishes, it can certainly be enjoyed year-round. Its versatility makes it an ideal companion for a wide array of main courses. Consider pairing it with the vibrant flavors of cilantro lime chicken, the satisfying heartiness of an air fryer turkey burger, the Mediterranean zest of a Mediterranean Buddha bowl, the convenience of air fryer salmon from frozen, or even the rich, comforting taste of slow cooker pulled pork. Its bright notes cut through richness and complement lean proteins beautifully.
Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Cucumber Radish Salad
Below is a detailed breakdown of the ingredients needed for this refreshing salad. For exact measurements and a complete list, please refer to the recipe card found further down this page. These notes offer specific guidance to help you select the best ingredients for optimal flavor and texture.
- Cucumbers: For the best results in this salad, I highly recommend using English cucumbers. Their thin skin means no peeling is necessary, and their minimal, almost unnoticeable seeds contribute to a consistently crisp texture. They also have a slightly sweeter, milder flavor that pairs beautifully with the radishes and dill. Please note: the image above features fresh cucumbers (not English) from a local farmer’s market, which I used because they were what I had readily available at the time of photography. Any firm, fresh cucumber will work, but English cucumbers elevate the experience.
- Radishes: Choose firm, bright red radishes with fresh-looking greens attached if possible. Their peppery bite provides a fantastic contrast to the mild cucumbers and adds an essential layer of flavor and crunch. Slice them as thinly as possible for the best texture.
- Red Onion: A small amount of thinly sliced red onion adds a subtle pungency and a lovely pop of color. If you find red onion too strong, you can soak the slices in cold water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the salad to mellow their flavor.
- Fresh Dill: This herb is a star in this salad! Its distinct fresh, slightly anisy, and herbaceous notes are quintessential to a classic cucumber salad profile. While dried dill can be used as a substitute, fresh dill offers a significantly more vibrant and authentic flavor. If substituting, use about 1/3 the amount of dried dill compared to fresh.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: The base of our bright vinaigrette. Opt for a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and beneficial fats. Alternatively, a good avocado oil can also be used for a neutral taste that lets the other flavors shine. Discover more about olive oil benefits and how to choose the good stuff.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Provides the essential tang and acidity for the dressing, balancing the richness of the olive oil and brightening all the vegetable flavors. Apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute if red wine vinegar isn’t on hand.
- Honey: A touch of honey is used to subtly balance the tartness of the vinegar and lemon juice, creating a more rounded flavor profile. If you prefer to keep this salad completely sugar-free or vegan, you can omit the honey entirely or use a dash of maple syrup.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds an indispensable layer of brightness and zest to the vinaigrette. Always use fresh for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice simply won’t compare.
- Garlic Powder: Offers a convenient and quick way to infuse a mild garlic flavor throughout the dressing. For a stronger, fresher garlic note, you could use a small minced fresh garlic clove, adjusting to your preference.
- Fine Sea Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: These essential seasonings enhance all the flavors in the salad. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to your personal taste, adding more if needed after the flavors have melded.
Crafting Your Refreshing Cucumber Radish Salad: Step-by-Step
Preparing this cucumber radish salad is incredibly straightforward and quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Follow these simple steps to assemble your vibrant side dish.
- Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables. Begin by thinly and evenly slicing your cucumbers, radishes, and red onion. The key to a delicate and enjoyable salad texture is consistent, fine slices. If you have access to a mandoline slicer, now is the perfect time to use it – it will achieve perfectly uniform slices with ease and speed. Otherwise, a sharp knife and a steady hand will work beautifully. Once sliced, add all the prepared vegetables into a large mixing bowl, along with the generous helping of fresh dill. Ensure everything is well-distributed.
- Step 2: Whisk the Dressing. In a separate container, such as a mason jar with a lid or a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the vinaigrette dressing: extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, and fine sea salt. If using a mason jar, securely cover it and shake vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the dressing appears emulsified. If using a bowl, whisk everything together with a fork or small whisk until smooth.
- Step 3: Combine and Toss. Gently pour the freshly prepared vinaigrette dressing over the sliced salad ingredients in the mixing bowl.
- Step 4: Mix Thoroughly. Using salad tongs or two large spoons, carefully mix all the ingredients together. Ensure that every slice of cucumber, radish, and onion is coated evenly with the tangy dressing. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
Once mixed, allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the flavors to fully meld together, enhancing the overall taste and giving the vegetables a chance to absorb the delicious dressing. A chilled salad is also far more refreshing!
Choosing the Best Cucumbers for Your Radish Salad
The type of cucumber you choose can significantly impact the texture and subtle flavor of your salad. While most varieties will work well, each offers a slightly different experience. Understanding the options will help you select the perfect cucumber for your preference and what’s available.
English Cucumber: These are often long, slender, and typically sold wrapped in plastic at the grocery store. They are widely considered the best choice for salads due to their very small, almost imperceptible seeds and thin, tender skin which means no peeling is required. English cucumbers tend to be less watery than standard varieties, offering a firmer, crisper bite. Their slightly sweeter and more palatable taste makes them my top recommendation for this particular salad, ensuring a delicate texture and refreshing flavor.
Standard Garden Cucumber: This is the classic cucumber you often find in gardens and at local markets. They are generally shorter, plumper, and have thicker skins and larger seeds. While you can certainly use these in your salad, you might find that their thicker skin benefits from a quick peel. To avoid a bitter taste, it’s also a good idea to scoop out the larger seeds from the center. Garden cucumbers tend to release more water and can become a bit mushier if the salad is stored for a couple of days. If using, consider de-sogging them (as mentioned in our expert tips) to maintain their crunch.
Mini Cucumbers (Persian Cucumbers): You might also see these labeled as Persian cucumbers. These small, uniform cucumbers are very similar to English cucumbers in their characteristics – thin skin, small seeds, and a mild, crunchy texture. They are exceptionally crisp and have a wonderfully subtle taste, making them another excellent choice for this salad. Their small size means less prep work, as they can often be sliced directly into rounds without further preparation.
Regardless of which variety you select, the most important factor is freshness. Always choose cucumbers that are firm to the touch, vibrant in color, and free from any soft spots, blemishes, or shriveling. A firm cucumber promises that satisfying crunch we desire in this refreshing salad.
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Your Salad
This crisp cucumber and radish salad is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes, especially those that benefit from a light, fresh, and summery counterpoint. Its bright flavors make it a fantastic palate cleanser and a refreshing addition to almost any meal. Here are some ideas to inspire your next culinary creation:
- A Fresh Side Dish for Weekday Meals: It serves as an excellent, vibrant side for numerous protein-based main courses. It’s particularly good with grilled meats or lighter entrees. Try it alongside this flavorful cilantro lime chicken, a juicy air fryer turkey burger, or effortlessly prepared frozen salmon in the air fryer. The salad’s acidity and freshness cut through the richness of the main course, providing a balanced meal.
- Elevate Your Appetizer Spread: Serve this salad alongside your favorite hummus and a selection of pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks. It adds a fresh, crunchy element to a mezze platter or a simple snack spread. I highly recommend Simple Mills Organic Seed Flour Crackers for a healthy and delicious option!
- A Wholesome Breakfast Addition: Don’t limit salads to lunch and dinner! Incorporate more fresh vegetables into your breakfast by serving a small portion of this salad alongside some hard-boiled eggs, perfectly fried eggs, or a savory dairy-free frittata. It’s a wonderful way to start your day with nutrient-dense ingredients.
- Perfect for Picnics and Potlucks: Due to its refreshing nature and dairy-free dressing, this salad travels well and holds up beautifully at outdoor gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that offers a lighter alternative to heavier potato or pasta salads.
- As a Light Lunch: Enjoy a larger portion of this salad on its own for a very light and satisfying lunch, especially on hot days. You can add some grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein to make it a more substantial meal.
Creative Variations to Customize Your Salad
This easy cucumber radish salad recipe is incredibly flavorful as is, but it also serves as an excellent base for experimentation. If you’re looking to play around with some exciting add-ins or variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand, consider trying some of these delicious ideas to make it your own unique creation!
- Add Plant-Based Protein with Chickpeas: For an extra boost of protein and fiber, simply drain and rinse a can of chickpeas and toss them into the salad. They add a lovely texture and make the salad more filling, transforming it into a light main course.
- Swap the Dill for Fresh Mint: While dill is a personal favorite, if it’s not quite your preference or you’re looking for a different flavor profile, fresh mint is an amazing alternative. Its cool, refreshing essence pairs wonderfully with cucumbers and provides a Mediterranean twist. Fresh parsley or even a mix of mint and parsley would also be delightful.
- Incorporate Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese: If you don’t adhere to a dairy-free diet, adding some crumbled feta cheese or creamy goat cheese can introduce a lovely salty, tangy, or creamy element to the salad. These cheeses complement the crisp vegetables and bright dressing beautifully.
- Boost Color and Sweetness with Sliced Cherry Tomatoes: If you have some ripe cherry tomatoes lounging in your fridge, or simply adore the burst of flavor they provide, thinly slicing them and adding them to the salad is a fantastic idea. They bring a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- Introduce Green Onion for a Milder Flavor: Thinly sliced green onions (scallions) can be added to the salad for a milder onion flavor compared to red onion. You could use them in addition to or as a complete replacement for the red onion, depending on your preference for pungency.
- Spice it Up with a Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a small pinch of red pepper flakes added to the dressing can give this salad a subtle spicy kick.
- Add Healthy Fats with Avocado: Diced avocado adds a creamy texture and healthy fats, making the salad more substantial and satisfying. Add it right before serving to prevent browning.
- Crunchy Nuts or Seeds: Toasted slivered almonds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds can add an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor.
Chef’s Tips for the Best Cucumber Radish Salad
Precision Slicing is Key: To achieve the perfect texture and ensure every bite is harmonious, it’s crucial to slice the cucumbers, radishes, and onion as thinly and evenly as possible. Thin slices not only look more appealing but also absorb the dressing better and provide a delicate crunch. A mandoline slicer is an invaluable tool for this task, guaranteeing uniform slices with minimal effort every time. If you don’t have one, a very sharp knife and a steady hand will also work, just take your time.
Selecting Quality Cucumbers: When shopping for cucumbers, always look for ones that are firm to the touch and have a vibrant, unblemished skin. Avoid any cucumbers that feel soft, squishy, or show signs of shriveling, as these are indicators of age and will result in a less crisp salad. Freshness is paramount for that refreshing crunch!
The Magic of Marination: While this salad is delicious immediately after mixing, allowing it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving makes a significant difference. This resting period allows the flavors of the vegetables and the dressing to meld together beautifully, creating a more complex and integrated taste. It also ensures the salad is perfectly chilled, enhancing its refreshing qualities, especially on a warm day.
Preventing Soggy Cucumbers: Cucumbers naturally contain a high water content, which can lead to a watery or soggy salad if not managed. To combat this, after thinly slicing your cucumbers, place them in a bowl and toss with about 1 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 30-60 minutes. The salt will draw out excess moisture. Before adding other ingredients, drain any accumulated liquid thoroughly. This simple step will help keep your salad crisp for longer.
Best Served Fresh, But Stores Well: This cucumber radish salad is undeniably at its best the day it’s made, when the vegetables are at their crispiest. However, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Be aware that the cucumbers may soften and release more liquid over time. If serving leftovers, you might want to drain any excess liquid before plating.
Common Questions About Cucumber Radish Salad
Not at all! For this particular salad, especially if you’re using English or Persian cucumbers, it’s recommended to slice the cucumbers with the skin on. The skin adds extra fiber, nutrients, and a vibrant green color. That said, if you have a strong personal preference for peeled cucumbers or are using a garden cucumber with a particularly thick or waxy skin, feel free to peel them before slicing. The choice is yours!
This cucumber radish salad is undoubtedly at its peak freshness and crispness on the day it’s made. The vibrant textures and flavors are most pronounced then. However, if you have leftovers, they should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and will remain fresh and edible for about 2-3 days. Please note that as the salad sits, the cucumbers will naturally release more water, which can cause the salad to become a bit softer or ‘soggy’ over time. If serving leftovers, you might want to drain any excess liquid before plating to maintain the best possible texture.
Many nutritionists and health enthusiasts do refer to radishes as a “superfood” due to their impressive nutrient profile. Radishes are indeed a nutrient-dense food, offering a wide array of health benefits. They are particularly rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. They are an excellent source of Vitamin C, crucial for immune health, and provide a good amount of fiber, aiding in digestion. Additionally, radishes are packed with multiple essential minerals like potassium (important for blood pressure) and calcium (vital for bone health), all while being very low in calories. Incorporating radishes into your diet is a simple and delicious way to boost your overall well-being.
To prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy and to ensure your salad remains delightfully crisp, you can employ a simple trick: after thinly slicing the cucumbers, place them in a bowl and sprinkle them with about 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Gently toss to coat and let them sit for approximately 30-60 minutes. During this time, the salt will draw out a significant amount of excess water from the cucumbers. Before proceeding with the rest of the salad, simply drain any liquid that has accumulated in the bowl. This process, often called “de-sogging” or “sweating” cucumbers, helps maintain their firm texture and prevents your salad from becoming watery.
Yes, you can certainly prepare components of this salad ahead of time for easier meal prep! You can slice your cucumbers, radishes, and red onion, and chop your fresh dill, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The vinaigrette dressing can also be made and stored in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To ensure the freshest and crispiest salad, it’s best to combine the dressing with the vegetables no more than 1-2 hours before serving, or ideally, allow it to marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you anticipate making it further in advance, use the “de-sogging” tip for the cucumbers mentioned above.
This cucumber radish salad offers a beautiful balance of flavors. You’ll experience the refreshing coolness and subtle sweetness of the cucumbers, contrasted by the lively, peppery bite of the radishes. The fresh dill brings an aromatic, herbaceous, and slightly anisy note, while the red onion adds a mild savory depth. The tangy vinaigrette, with its blend of red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of honey, ties everything together with a bright, zesty, and perfectly balanced finish.
Discover More Delicious & Healthy Salad Recipes!
If you’ve enjoyed the crisp freshness of this cucumber radish salad, you’re in for a treat! We have a collection of other fantastic salad recipes that are equally simple, wholesome, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for healthy eating, meal prep, or simply adding more vibrant vegetables to your diet, these salads are sure to become new favorites. Explore these tempting options:
- Superfood Salad
- Zesty Southwest Quinoa Salad (with avocado)
- Healthy Broccoli Kale Salad
- Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad
If you make this cucumber radish salad recipe, please let me know what you think! I would so appreciate you leaving a star rating and/or a comment below. Your feedback helps others discover and enjoy these recipes. And don’t forget to share a photo of your creation on Instagram or Facebook and mention @CleanPlateMama! We love seeing your delicious results.
Eat Clean. Be Well!
-Sara
Cucumber Radish Salad Recipe
Print
Pin
Rate
Equipment
-
1 Large Mixing Bowl
-
1 Mason Jar with Lid (or small bowl & whisk)
-
Mandoline Slicer (optional, but recommended)
Ingredients
For the Refreshing Salad
- 3 cups thinly sliced English cucumbers (about 2 medium)
- 8 radishes, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp. fresh dill, chopped
For the Tangy Vinaigrette Dressing
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp. honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tbsp fresh juice)
- ¼ tsp. garlic powder
- ½ tsp. fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
-
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced cucumbers, radishes, red onion, and fresh chopped dill. Gently toss to mix the vegetables and herbs evenly.
-
Prepare the dressing: In a mason jar (or a small bowl), add the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, and ½ tsp. fine sea salt. Cover the jar tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified. If using a bowl, whisk until smooth.
-
Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed vegetables in the bowl. Using salad tongs or spoons, stir everything together thoroughly until all the cucumber, radish, and onion slices are evenly coated with the vibrant dressing.
-
For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and chill thoroughly. Before serving, taste and season with additional fresh cracked pepper or salt if needed.
Notes
- The key to a visually appealing and texturally pleasing salad is to slice the cucumbers, radishes, and onion as thinly and evenly as possible. A mandoline slicer is highly recommended for achieving consistent, perfect slices every time.
- For the most vibrant and authentic flavor, I highly recommend using fresh dill. However, if fresh dill is unavailable, you can substitute it with 1 tbsp. of dried dill. Keep in mind the flavor will be slightly less intense.
- To prevent the cucumbers from getting soggy and to maintain their crispness, especially if preparing ahead of time: after slicing, place the cucumbers in a bowl and toss with 1 tsp. of salt. Let them sit for 30-60 minutes, then drain any released liquid thoroughly before adding them to the rest of the salad ingredients.
- Cucumbers will naturally release water as they sit. If the salad is prepared well in advance and sits for too long before serving, you may notice excess liquid at the bottom of the bowl. You can easily transfer the salad to a new serving dish or gently drain some of the extra liquid before plating.
- This cucumber salad is truly at its best and crispiest on the day it’s made. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. The texture may soften slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
- For a vegan option, substitute honey with an equal amount of maple syrup or agave nectar.
Nutrition Information