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Sweet Cucumber and Radish Salad

This sweet cucumber and radish salad is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that brings a crisp, peppery bite to any meal. Using a light, cider vinegar-based dressing, the vegetables are briefly marinated to soften their crunch while retaining a bright, garden-fresh flavour. It is an excellent choice for a summer lunch or as a palate-cleansing accompaniment to grilled fish and roasted meats.

As a low-sugar recipe, this salad offers a healthier alternative to traditional creamy coleslaws or heavy potato salads. The simple combination of shop-bought staples creates a sophisticated balance of sweet and acidic notes. For the best results, serve this dish immediately after the brief marinating period to enjoy the contrast between the warm dressing and the cool, crunchy vegetables.

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Ingredients for Sweet Cucumber and Radish Salad

  • 1 large cucumber (450g )

  • 1 bunch radishes

  • 60ml cider vinegar

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

How to make Sweet Cucumber and Radish Salad

Peel cucumber, then halve lengthwise and slice crosswise 1/4 inch thick. Cut each radish lengthwise into 8 wedges.

Bring vinegar, sugar, 1/4 teaspoons salt, and 1/8 teaspoons pepper to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring until sugar has dissolved, then stir in oil.

Pour hot dressing over cucumbers and radishes in a bowl and stir, then let stand 10 minutes. Stir and season with salt before serving.

Haggipavlu Nemea '04

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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