Radish & Cucumber Salad

Author Notes

In Russian you call someone “rediska”, which means radish, when they’re naughty and misbehaving. At least that’s what my mother does. I never could understand why, but perhaps it’s because radishes are sharp and peppery. Anyway, being called a radish doesn’t hurt my feelings any because I happen to love radishes. I grew up eating this cool and refreshing radish salad, and as far as I can tell, it’s a Russian classic. My mother makes it with Kirby cucumbers, but I usually use English cucumbers because they’re much easier to find. And Mom never used the dill, though it is a common addition. I can’t remember what Mom served this with, and she’s being a radish and not answering her phone right now so I can’t ask, but I think it’s great on the side with roast chicken. One large bunch of radishes is usually enough to make the recipe. - Lucy Vaserfirer —Lucy Vaserfirer

Test Kitchen Notes

This is a lovely, simple salad that is such a pretty side dish! A hand-held mandoline made quick work of the slicing. Peppery radishes were balanced by the cool taste of the sliced cucumbers. I had imagined this recipe might need some lemon juice or zest. Wrong! Lucy's recipe reminds me of my "Creamy Cucumber Side" in many ways, only easier and so tasty. Thumbs up! - Lizthechef

—The Editors