The Cucumber Radish Salad is a vibrant mix of crisp vegetables and fragrant herbs tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and made with simple, wholesome ingredients. Perfect for warm weather, this salad is both cooling and satisfying. Great as a side dish or a light meal, this salad comes together in just 10 minutes and requires no cooking. The bright radishes add a subtle peppery bite, while the cucumber delivers that irresistible crunch. Fresh dill and green onions infuse each bite with garden-fresh flavor. Whether you’re entertaining or eating solo, this dish brings brightness to your table.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 large English cucumber, thinly sliced
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1 bunch radishes, thinly sliced
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2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
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2 tablespoons green onions, finely sliced
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber and radishes.
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Add the chopped dill and green onions.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the dressing over the cucumber and radish mixture.
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Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
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Let sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 90 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Refreshing Classic with a Modern Twist
Cucumber Radish Salad is one of those simple yet stunning recipes that proves less truly can be more. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish delivers maximum flavor and visual appeal. Rooted in Eastern European cuisine, especially Polish and Russian traditions, this salad has long been appreciated for its refreshing qualities and digestive benefits. Traditionally served with sour cream or yogurt-based dressings, the version featured here is updated with a light lemon and olive oil vinaigrette, making it dairy-free, vegan, and perfect for modern dietary preferences.
The combination of crisp cucumber and spicy radish slices, delicately dressed and garnished with fresh dill and green onions, results in a crunchy, hydrating, and mildly peppery dish that complements nearly any meal. Whether served as a light starter, a healthy lunch, or a cooling side dish to grilled proteins, its versatility is what makes it shine.
Why This Salad Deserves a Spot on Your Table
One of the main reasons this cucumber radish salad is a standout is its ability to offer freshness and flavor without being heavy or overly complex. In a world of rich dressings and complicated salad creations, this one cuts through the noise with purity and balance. Each component plays a key role: the cucumber hydrates and cools, the radish adds bite and boldness, the dill delivers an aromatic lift, and the lemon-olive oil dressing ties it all together with brightness.
Unlike store-bought or restaurant salads that may contain hidden sugars, preservatives, or allergens, this homemade salad offers clean eating at its best. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, low-carb, and can easily be tailored to fit Whole30, paleo, and keto lifestyles.
Nutritional Benefits of Cucumber and Radish
Both cucumbers and radishes are not only flavorful but also packed with health benefits:
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Cucumbers are composed of over 95% water, making them incredibly hydrating, especially during warmer months. They’re also a great source of antioxidants and contain anti-inflammatory flavonoids that support skin health, blood sugar balance, and digestion.
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Radishes are an often-underappreciated superfood. Rich in vitamin C, potassium, folate, and fiber, radishes aid in detoxification, support immune health, and have natural antifungal and antibacterial properties. Their peppery flavor comes from compounds called isothiocyanates, which have been shown to support liver function and cellular health.
Together, these veggies create a salad that’s low in calories but high in nourishment—perfect for anyone trying to boost their veggie intake or follow a clean-eating plan.
A Great Choice for Meal Prep and Entertaining
One of the best parts about this salad is how well it holds up, even when made ahead. Because there are no ingredients that wilt quickly, it can be prepped and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, making it an ideal choice for meal preppers and busy households. The flavors even develop over time, especially when the salad is allowed to marinate in the dressing for a short while.
For entertaining, this salad is a no-fuss side dish that adds a burst of color and texture to any table. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled fish, roasted chicken, or veggie burgers, and also works as a palate cleanser between heavier courses. Plus, it looks beautiful served in a rustic bowl or even layered in jars for outdoor gatherings and picnics.
Perfect for Dietary Restrictions and Wellness Goals
This cucumber radish salad fits effortlessly into nearly any diet. For people managing food sensitivities or following structured eating plans, it checks all the right boxes:
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Vegan and Plant-Based – No animal products involved, yet full of flavor and texture.
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Paleo and Whole30 Friendly – Naturally compliant with these clean eating protocols.
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Gluten-Free and Grain-Free – Completely free of gluten-containing ingredients.
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Keto and Low-Carb – Minimal carbs while still delivering satisfying crunch and fiber.
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Dairy-Free and Nut-Free – Safe for those with common allergies or intolerances.
It’s also great for intermittent fasters or those seeking to reduce their overall calorie intake without sacrificing taste.
How to Customize This Salad
One of the joys of a simple base recipe like this is how easy it is to customize based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences. Here are some delicious variations:
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Add Avocado: For creaminess and extra healthy fats.
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Include Feta or Goat Cheese: If you’re not dairy-free, this adds tang and richness.
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Swap the Dressing: Try a red wine vinaigrette or a touch of mustard for a twist.
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Throw in Other Herbs: Fresh mint, parsley, or cilantro can completely change the flavor profile.
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Boost the Protein: Add grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or boiled eggs for a heartier salad.
You can also mix in cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, or even a handful of arugula or spinach for extra greens.
Tips for Perfect Preparation Every Time
To make this salad truly exceptional, keep these preparation tips in mind:
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Use a Mandoline Slicer: This ensures uniform, paper-thin slices for both cucumbers and radishes, enhancing both the texture and the appearance of the salad.
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Salt the Cucumbers: If you have time, lightly salt the cucumber slices and let them sit in a colander for 10 minutes. This draws out excess water and prevents the salad from getting watery.
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Serve Chilled: This salad tastes best when cold. Refrigerate for at least 10–15 minutes before serving.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Dried dill simply doesn’t compare to fresh. Always opt for fresh herbs when possible for the brightest flavor.
Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly
Another reason to love this salad is that it’s gentle on both your wallet and the environment. With cucumbers and radishes often being some of the most affordable and widely available produce, this recipe doesn’t require specialty ingredients or high-end imports.
It’s also low-waste. You can use the entire cucumber (skin and all if organic) and most of the radish. Leftover herbs can be blended into sauces or stored in ice cube trays with olive oil for later use.
By making this salad at home, you avoid plastic containers, unnecessary packaging, and food waste—all while creating something beautiful and nourishing.
How This Salad Became a Favorite on My Blog
Every time I post this salad, whether as part of a weekly meal plan or featured in a summer roundup, it receives an overwhelming response from readers. People love its freshness, simplicity, and the fact that it fits into their dietary lifestyles so seamlessly. It’s especially popular in spring and summer, when cucumbers and radishes are in season and bursting with flavor.
Over time, this salad has become a signature dish—one that readers associate with my blog’s focus on clean, seasonal eating. It’s also one of the most re-created recipes, with many of you tagging your versions on social media with stunning results!
Conclusion
The cucumber radish salad is more than just a quick recipe—it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s proof that with just a few well-chosen elements, you can create a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a clean and refreshing side dish, this salad is a go-to option you’ll want to revisit again and again. And the best part? It’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you haven’t had it on repeat all along. Would you like help crafting a downloadable PDF version of this article for your readers? Or perhaps you’d like an additional version tailored for email newsletters or Pinterest sharing?
