| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 123 | 9g | 3g | 11g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 4g | 2g | 0.4g |
Growing up in the heart of Texas, I found a unique love and respect for the bold flavors of the kitchen. One recipe which reverberates with my palate’s fondness for the vibrant and wholesome tastes of Southern cuisine is Roasted Radishes and Greens. It’s often seen as a surprising twist on traditional vegetable dishes with its delightful blend of contrasts – the earthy crunch of radishes against the rich softness of greens, all cloaked in a tangy citrus dressing that provides just the right amount of zing.
A Hearty and Healthy Choice
The inspiration behind my Roasted Radishes and Greens is fairly simple: it embraces the philosophy of health and flavor in harmony. Radishes are low in calories yet rich in vitamins and minerals, such as potassium and vitamin C, supporting heart health. Its companion, the mixed greens – which can be a combination of iron-rich spinach, vitamin K-filled kale, or mildly spicy arugula – adds to the nutrient content, providing a balance of taste and wellness in each bite. The light dressing made from olive oil, celebrated for its heart-healthy fats, and lemon juice, known for its detoxifying properties, elevates these simple ingredients to a gourmet level.
Here is an excellent source outlining the health benefits of lemons.
Flavors and Pairings
This dish, although a complete delight on its own, can harmoniously coexist with a multitude of other meals. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled protein options, like chicken or fish. Given its lemon zest and juice components, it complements seafood especially well, as the acidity brightens the flavors of the ocean fare. Furthermore, if you’re inclined to a more traditional Southern meal, pairing this with a savory brisket or flavorful pulled pork brings forth a beautiful palate dance of bold meats and bright, fresh vegetables.
Here are some brisket recipes for inspiration.
Alluringly simple yet filled with depth, the Roasted Radishes and Greens recipe shows that re-imagining traditional meals with healthier counterparts need not compromise taste or enjoyment. I love this recipe because it embodies both my educational spirit and Southern roots, proving that traditional and contemporary, hearty and healthy, and simple and gourmet are not opposing pairs, but can coexist in a beautiful culinary harmony.
What You’ll Need
- 2 bunches of radishes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 bunches of mixed greens (like kale, spinach, or arugula)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is preheating, clean the radishes and trim off the greens. Set the greens aside for later.
Step Two
Place the radishes on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Three
Roast the radishes in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are tender and have a slight char.
Step Four
While the radishes are roasting, prepare the greens. Rinse the greens thoroughly and chop them roughly.
Step Five
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until it’s fragrant, usually around 1 minute.
Step Six
Add the chopped greens to the skillet. Cook until the greens are wilted, stirring frequently.
Step Seven
Once the radishes are done roasting, remove them from the oven. Add them to the skillet with the greens, and stir to combine.
Step Eight
Finish off by adding the lemon zest and lemon juice. Stir well to combine, and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Your Roasted Radishes and Greens are now ready to be served. Enjoy this healthy and scrumptious side dish with your meal!
