Cucumber and Radish Salad

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Introduction

This crisp salad comes together in under 10 minutes with just five ingredients and a knife. The small-diced cucumber and radish create a crunchy base, while sour cream binds everything together into a tangy, refreshing side that pairs well with grilled meats or hearty grain bowls.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 8 minutes
• Servings: 2–3

Ingredients

• 1 ea. (about 5 oz) pickling cucumber
• 3-4 ea. (about 5 oz) radishes
• 1 ea. (about 1 oz) green onion
• 1-2 tsp sour cream
• ½ tsp salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. Chop cucumbers and radishes into small cubes (about ¼ inch on the side).
2. Chop green onions.
3. Combine all of the above in an appropriately sized bowl.
4. Add sour cream and mix well.
5. Add salt to taste and mix again.

Variations

Dill addition: Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh dill after mixing in the sour cream for a herbaceous note that brightens the radish bite.

Extra tang: Replace half the sour cream with plain yogurt to lighten the richness while keeping the creamy texture and adding subtle tang.

Crunchy topping: Scatter toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds over the finished salad just before serving to add texture contrast.

Shallot swap: Substitute a small shallot (minced) for the green onion to deepen the onion flavor and reduce the raw bite.

Tips for Success

• Dice everything to a uniform ¼ inch so pieces absorb the sour cream evenly and the salad feels cohesive rather than chunky.
• Taste before adding all the salt—radishes vary in peppery intensity, and you may need less than ½ teaspoon.
• Mix gently after adding sour cream to avoid breaking the cucumber and radish cubes into mush.

Storage and Reheating

FAQ

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, chop the vegetables and store them separately in the fridge for up to 1 day, then mix with sour cream and salt just before serving to keep everything crisp.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

Greek yogurt or crème fraîche will work as a direct swap in the same amount, giving you a similar creamy, tangy finish.

Why does my salad get watery?

Radishes and cucumbers release moisture as they sit. Mix the salad no more than 30 minutes before eating, and drain any excess liquid that pools at the bottom before serving.

Can I use regular slicing cucumbers instead of pickling cucumbers?

Yes, but reduce the amount slightly—slicing cucumbers contain more water and seeds, so use about 6–7 oz and pat the cubes dry with paper towels before mixing to prevent a soggy salad.