Refreshing Cucumber & Radish Slaw

Name: Refreshing Cucumber & Radish Slaw
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 cup radishes, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Vitality Meal Guide

I love whipping up this refreshing cucumber and radish slaw when I want a dish that bursts with flavor and crunch! It's the perfect complement to any meal, and it's so easy to make. The combination of the crisp cucumbers and the peppery radishes makes for a vibrant side dish that adds a pop of color and freshness to our table. I often serve it alongside grilled meats or fish, and it's always a hit. Try it out, and you'll see how quickly it disappears!

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-02-13T17:06:18.936Z

When I first made this refreshing cucumber and radish slaw, I didn't expect it to become a staple at our summer barbecues. The crunch of the vegetables mixed with a zesty dressing creates a delightful contrast that really wakes up your taste buds. What surprised me was how versatile this slaw is—it pairs beautifully with everything from tacos to grilled veggies.

A tip I swear by is letting the slaw sit for at least 10 minutes after mixing. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the vegetables a chance to soften just enough for that perfect bite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crisp, refreshing flavors that awaken your palate
Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 15 minutes
Perfectly pairs with a variety of main dishes

The Crunch Factor

The key to achieving the perfect crunch in your cucumber and radish slaw lies in how you prepare your vegetables. Opt for fresh, firm cucumbers and radishes to ensure they maintain their texture. When slicing, aim for uniform thickness, about 1/8 inch, to promote even marination. I recommend using a mandoline for consistent cuts, which not only enhances the slaw's appearance but also ensures that each bite is equally satisfying.

Don't rush the slicing; take your time to get the right width. Thin slices allow for greater absorption of the dressing, which enhances the flavor profile. When preparing the cucumbers, consider removing the seeds if they’re large, as this can make the slaw less watery—an essential factor for maintaining a crispiness that lasts longer.

Dressing Matters

The dressing for this slaw plays a significant role in balancing the refreshing taste of the vegetables. Using high-quality extra virgin olive oil can enhance the flavor profile, while the honey adds a pleasant sweetness that counteracts the peppery kick of the radishes. For a tangier variation, consider adding a dash of lemon juice to amplify the acidity.

Whisk the dressing until it becomes emulsified; you want it to be slightly thick but pourable. If your dressing is too thin, it won’t cling to your slaw as well. If you prefer a thicker consistency, try adjusting the olive oil to vinegar ratio, perhaps further reducing the apple cider vinegar to highlight the honey’s sweetness.

Make-Ahead Tips

This slaw can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings. To maintain crispness, store the slaw and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before serving. This helps prevent the vegetables from wilting, ensuring that your slaw retains that delightful crunch.

When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the slaw with the dressing and let it rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also experiment with add-ins such as shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for additional color and nutrition, which you can incorporate without compromising the texture.

Ingredients

For the Slaw

2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
1 cup radishes, thinly sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the dressing ingredients separately before combining with the slaw for maximum flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, radishes, red onion, and parsley.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy this slaw as a refreshing side dish for your favorite meals!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of lime juice or some diced jalapeños to the slaw.

Serving Suggestions

This cucumber and radish slaw pairs impressively with various main dishes. I particularly enjoy serving it alongside grilled seafood, where the refreshing crunch complements the smoky flavors perfectly. It’s also fantastic as a topping for fish tacos, adding texture and brightness to each bite.

For a diverse spread, try incorporating this slaw into a summer picnic alongside roasted chicken or barbecued meats. Its vibrant colors and crisp textures create a visual and flavorful contrast that guests will love. Additionally, you can bulk it up by mixing it with cooked grains like quinoa for a heartier salad.

Variations to Try

Feel free to make this slaw your own with additional ingredients or flavor twists. For a spicy kick, add thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. Alternatively, for a creamier slaw, swap out some of the olive oil for a dollop of Greek yogurt, combining the tang of yogurt with honey for a delightful dressing twist.

If you're looking to cater to different dietary needs, consider using agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan variation. Also, for gluten-free diets, this slaw is already naturally suitable. Just ensure that all your dressing ingredients and any additions you choose are gluten-free as well.

Storage Tips

To store your leftover slaw, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bear in mind that the longer it sits, the softer it will become, as the dressing pulls moisture from the vegetables. To refresh it, you might want to add a bit more chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh citrus just before serving.

If you've made a larger batch for a party, consider serving it as a buffet side with small scoops on individual plates. This way, it not only looks appealing but also helps control portion sizes and keeps the slaw fresh for longer during the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the slaw in advance?

Yes! You can make it a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it refrigerated.

→ What can I substitute for radishes?

You can use things like jicama or carrot if you prefer something milder.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers should be consumed within 2 days for the best texture and flavor.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, carrots, or even cabbage to customize the slaw.