If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant side dish that instantly brightens any meal, this radish carrot cilantro salad is exactly what you need. It’s crisp, colorful, and tossed in a light citrus dressing that makes every bite pop.
This simple salad comes together in minutes and is perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to backyard cookouts. The thinly sliced radishes and carrots create the perfect crunchy texture, while fresh cilantro and green onions add a burst of flavor.
Even better, it gets more delicious as it sits, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.
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Why You’ll Love This Radish Carrot Salad
- Light, fresh, and naturally healthy
- Bright citrus flavor from lemon and orange
- Quick and easy to make
- Perfect for spring and summer meals
- Pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or sandwiches
Ingredients
Salad
- 1½ lbs radishes, very thinly sliced
- 1½ lbs medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 6 green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
For the Citrus Dressing
- 1 tsp grated orange zest
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice
- 3 Tbsp orange juice
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
How to Make Radish Carrot Cilantro Salad
- Prep the vegetables
Thinly slice the radishes and carrots. The thinner, the better for the best texture. - Combine the salad
In a large bowl, add the radishes, carrots, green onions, and chopped cilantro. - Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the orange zest, lemon juice, orange juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until fully combined. - Toss everything together
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat. - Chill before serving
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors blend.
Tips for the Best Radish Carrot Salad
- Use a mandoline for ultra-thin, even slices
- Let it chill longer for deeper flavor
- Taste and adjust salt or citrus before serving
- Add a drizzle of honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter balance
What to Serve With This Salad
This fresh salad pairs perfectly with:
- Grilled chicken or steak
- Tacos and burrito bowls
- Pulled pork or barbecue dishes
- Sandwiches and wraps
It’s also a great topping for tacos for added crunch and brightness.
Radish Carrot Cilantro Salad
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 SERVINGS 1x
Description
This radish carrot cilantro salad is crisp, refreshing, and tossed in a bright citrus dressing. It’s an easy, healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or summer meals.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1½ lbs radishes, very thinly sliced
- 1½ lbs medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 6 green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
Dressing
- 1 tsp grated orange zest
- 3 Tbsp lemon juice
- 3 Tbsp orange juice
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced radishes and carrots.
- Add the chopped green onions and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the orange zest, lemon juice, orange juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Slice the vegetables very thin for the best texture.
- Letting the salad chill enhances the flavor and softens the vegetables slightly.
- Add a drizzle of honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing.
- This salad is great served cold or slightly chilled.
- Prep Time: 20 MINS
- Chill Time: 1 HOUR
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: American
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables will soften slightly but still taste delicious.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for at least an hour.
Can I substitute parsley for cilantro?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works well for a milder flavor.
How thin should I slice the vegetables?
Very thin slices are best so the dressing coats everything evenly and the texture stays light and crisp.
Final Thoughts
This radish carrot cilantro salad is one of those simple recipes that feels special every time you make it. It’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, making it the perfect go-to side dish for busy nights or casual gatherings.
If you’re trying to add more bright, healthy dishes to your table, this one is a must-make.
