There’s something undeniably refreshing about a salad that’s equal parts crisp, peppery, and herbaceous. This Cucumber Radish Salad is all that and more—a light yet flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for balancing out richer meals or standing on its own as a quick, healthy bite.
With every forkful, you get the cool crunch of cucumbers, the zesty bite of radishes, and a delicate mix of fresh herbs, all tied together with a subtly sweet and tangy dressing.
This salad isn’t just delicious—it’s nutrient-dense and hydrating, making it an excellent choice for summer meals, detox-friendly eating, or simply adding more fresh veggies to your plate. Plus, radishes are packed with antioxidants, and cucumbers are 96% water, meaning this dish keeps you feeling light and refreshed.
Looking for a complete meal? Pair this salad with a creamy, hearty Crab Pasta Salad for a well-rounded summer spread, or serve it alongside Crockpot Chicken Noodle Soup for a contrast of warm and cool textures.
Simple to make, vibrant on the plate, and bursting with fresh flavors—this is the kind of salad you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Why You’ll Want to Make This Again and Again?
- Freshness overload! The mix of dill, chives, and mint creates an incredible aroma and a bright, herby taste that takes this salad to the next level.
- Perfect crunch balance: Cucumbers provide a cool snap, radishes bring a peppery bite, and celery adds extra crispness—every bite is pure texture heaven.
- That goat cheese magic: The creamy chèvre melts into the dressing, making every bite extra luxurious and flavorful.
- Great for meal prep: Make a big batch, and it stays fresh for up to two days, making it a go-to for easy, healthy lunches.
- Light yet satisfying: Whether you’re keeping things healthy or just need a vibrant side dish, this salad does the job beautifully.
Cucumber Radish Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Small bowl (for dressing)
- Whisk or fork
- Large mixing bowl
- Salad tongs or spoon
Ingredients
Make the dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced shallots
- 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon sumac
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For the Salad:
- 1 large English cucumber thinly sliced
- 12 radishes thinly sliced
- 3 stalks of celery thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup minced dill
- 1/4 cup minced chives
- 3 tablespoons chopped mint
- 4 ounces goat cheese chèvre
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced shallots, white wine vinegar, honey, sumac, and salt to make the dressing. Set aside.
- Thinly slice cucumbers, radishes, and celery, then add them to a large mixing bowl.
- Add minced dill, chives, and chopped mint for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
- Crumble goat cheese over the top and lightly mix to combine.
- Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately, or chill for 10-15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Enjoy on its own or pair it with your favorite meal!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 152.7kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5.5g |
| Protein | 4.3g |
| Fat | 13.1g |
| Sugar | 3.5g |
| Sodium | 286.1mg |
Next-Level Variations for Cucumber Radish Salad!
- Charred Veggie Twist – Lightly char thinly sliced cucumbers and radishes on a dry pan for a smoky depth of flavor while keeping the fresh crunch intact.
- Spiced-Up Dressing – Add a pinch of Aleppo pepper or smoked paprika to the dressing for a warm, subtle heat that enhances the salad without overpowering it.
- Fermented Flair – Mix in a spoonful of finely chopped kimchi or pickled radishes for a tangy, probiotic-rich kick that balances the creamy goat cheese.
- Crispy Shallot Crunch – Instead of raw shallots in the dressing, fry them until golden and crispy, then sprinkle them over the salad for a deep, savory crunch.
- Sesame Fusion – Swap out the olive oil for toasted sesame oil and add a handful of black sesame seeds for an unexpected nutty aroma and an Asian-inspired touch.
- Avocado Creaminess – Mash half an avocado into the dressing for a richer, velvety texture that coats the veggies beautifully.
- Citrus Elevation – Use a mix of lemon and orange zest in the dressing to bring a bright, citrusy complexity that pairs exceptionally well with the goat cheese.
- Savory Granola Topping – Sprinkle a small handful of unsweetened, nut-based granola for a unique crunch that adds texture without relying on traditional nuts or croutons.
These variations elevate the salad beyond the basics, bringing new textures and flavors while keeping it balanced and refreshing. Try one (or mix a few) to make it uniquely yours!
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
