in season

Radishes

By Tara Swartzendruber-Landis / Photography By | Last Updated May 04, 2017
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“My work piles up,
I falter with disease.
Time rushes toward me—it has no brakes. Still,
the radishes are good this year. 
Run them through butter,
Add a little salt.”
 
—From “Zona,” by Jim Harrison

The radish is an early-spring treat reminding us the long days of winter are over and simple, fresh food is here. These quick-growing root vegetables from the Brassicaceae family are simple to prepare and fun to eat. Grab a few as they arrive at the famers market; use the greens for pesto, butter up some good bread and dig in. Spring is sweet!

Selecting: Look for radishes that are firm and don’t look dried out or wrinkled. Radishes can vary from mild in flavor to very spicy. If you have a preference, see if you can sample before buying. 

Storage: Store radishes in a plastic bag or container with a lid. They will keep in the refrigerator for a couple of weeks.

Pair well with: Basil, butter, celery, cheese, chervil, chives, cilantro, cream, cucumber, dill, fennel, lemon, lettuce, lovage, marjoram, mint, olive oil, onions, orange, oregano, parsley, pears, pecans, pepper, rosemary, salt, scallions, sesame oil, shallots, soy sauce, tamari, thyme, vinegar. 

Radish Pickles

This recipe is adapted from a Japanese Farm Food turnip recipe. This simple preparation for radishes makes a wonderful side for rice and meat dishes.

Radish Toasts

A traditional French recipe that relies on quality butter and good bread. A great appetizer or early spring lunch with some cheese and a good glass of wine.

Web Exclusive: Roasted Radishes with Pink Peppercorns

Celebrate the arrival of Spring with this simple and healthy comfort food.

Radish Leaf Pesto

Put radish greens to good use in this pesto.
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