How to Eat Watermelon Radish: 8 Delicious Recipes

Introduction

Watermelon radishes are an interesting vegetable that can bring a unique flavor to any dish. With its bright pink-and-green skin and white fleshy interior, it has a mild taste that can be used in a variety of ways. Not only does it have a great flavor, but it is also incredibly nutritious, making it a great addition to any meal. In this article, you will learn about the benefits of eating watermelon radish and how to make eight delicious recipes featuring this special vegetable.

What is a Watermelon Radish?

Watermelon radishes are a member of the daikon family, which also includes daikon radishes, turnips, and rutabagas. They are round and range in size from one to three inches in diameter. On the outside, they have a bright pink-and-green skin, while the inside is white and fleshy. The flavor is mild and slightly sweet, with a hint of pepper.

Benefits of Eating Watermelon Radish

Watermelon radishes are packed with nutrition, including vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium, magnesium, and zinc. They are also high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and regulate your blood sugar levels. Additionally, they are low in calories and fat, making them a great choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Roasted Watermelon Radish

This simple recipe is perfect for adding a unique flavor to any meal. Roasting brings out the sweetness of the watermelon radish and makes it tender and delicious.

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb. of watermelon radishes, washed and sliced into wedges
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine watermelon radish wedges, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Spread the wedges onto a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
4. Turn the wedges over and roast for an additional 10 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Watermelon Radish Salad

This salad is a great way to get your greens in and take advantage of the unique flavor of watermelon radish. It’s light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cups of mixed greens (spinach, kale, arugula, etc.)
• 1/2 cup of thinly sliced watermelon radish
• 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup of dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, watermelon radish, feta cheese, walnuts, and cranberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Watermelon Radish Soup

This creamy and flavorful soup is great for a cold winter day. The subtle sweetness of the watermelon radish pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 2 cups of watermelon radish, peeled and diced
• 1 potato, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken broth, watermelon radish, potato, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Watermelon Radish Toast

This easy toast is a great way to start your day. The crunch of the watermelon radish pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the avocado and the nuttiness of the sesame seeds.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 slices of whole grain bread
• 1 avocado, mashed
• 1/2 cup of thinly sliced watermelon radish
• 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Toast the bread until golden brown.
2. Spread the mashed avocado onto the toast and top with watermelon radish slices.
3. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Watermelon Radish Fritters

These fritters make a great snack or side dish. The combination of the crispy outside and the tender inside makes them irresistible.

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 cup of grated watermelon radish
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the grated watermelon radish, flour, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Drop the batter by the tablespoonful into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Drain on paper towels and serve warm. Enjoy!

Watermelon Radish Slaw

This colorful slaw is a great side dish for any meal. The brightness of the watermelon radish and the crunch of the cabbage make it a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients Needed:

• 1/2 head of red cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 head of green cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup of thinly sliced watermelon radish
• 1/2 cup of shredded carrot
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cabbages, watermelon radish, carrot, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to combine.
3. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Watermelon Radish Juice

This refreshing juice is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals. The sweetness of the watermelon radish pairs perfectly with the tartness of the lemon.

Ingredients Needed:

• 1/2 cup of watermelon radish, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1 apple, cored and diced
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1 cup of ice cubes

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Combine the watermelon radish, cucumber, apple, lemon juice, ginger, turmeric, and ice cubes in a blender. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Conclusion

Watermelon radish is a unique vegetable that can add a special flavor to any dish. From roasted to soup to slaw, there are many ways to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. We hope these recipes have inspired you to try something new and explore the unique flavors of watermelon radish!

Recap of Recipes:

• Roasted Watermelon Radish
• Watermelon Radish Salad
• Watermelon Radish Soup
• Watermelon Radish Toast
• Watermelon Radish Fritters
• Watermelon Radish Slaw
• Watermelon Radish Juice

Final Thoughts:

Watermelon radish is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a flavorful side dish, there’s sure to be a recipe here that you’ll love.