If you like food with a bit of a zip to it and a lot of crunch, add radishes to your next shopping list. Radishes are sometimes forgotten. Yet, they are a powerhouse of nutrients for just a few calories.
Radishes are high in vitamin C, low calorie and low in sodium. For just 10 calories a serving, or seven radishes, you can get one-third of the needed vitamin C for a day. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which helps to reduce damage in our bodies caused by oxygen bi-products. Vitamin C also improves immune function and perhaps lowers risk for infection and cancer.
Another health benefit of radishes is they are an anti-congestive, which relieves congestion in the respiratory system. When you get a col or an allergic flare-up or infections, a healthy dose of radishes can help clear up congestion for a quicker heal time. It’s allergy season, so stock up on radishes.
To store radishes, remove the leaves if still attached when you purchase them. Leaving the leaves on will cause the radish to soften quicker. Store unwashed radishes in an airtight bag in the refrigerator for 7-10 days.
Radishes are just coming into season. They are available May through October. Here are some great ways to add radishes to your meals.
Add radishes to your favorite soups or stews.
Liven up coleslaw by adding thinly sliced radishes and shredded zucchini.
Brighten up your salad with a peppery bite from sliced radishes.
Spread a layer of hummus on a tortilla wrap and add a variety of vegetables including radishes for a healthy, colorful lunch.
Heat up a skillet with some olive oil and sauté-quartered radishes along with broccoli or cauliflower.
Alternatively, eat as a snack.
Here is a simple radish side dish, which is easy to make, and great for those backyard barbeques just around the corner.
Radish Salad
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
4 cups thinly sliced radishes
Freshly ground pepper
Mix together vinegar, sugar and salt; toss well with radishes. Marinate for 1 hour, drain and add pepper to taste. Serve 6 to 8
