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I've always adored radishes, their peppery bite a welcome contrast to sweeter veggies. However, sometimes that sharpness can be a bit overpowering. That's where pickling comes in – it mellows the radish's intensity while adding a delightful tangy zing. It's like giving them a whole new personality, a makeover if you will. A close friend, Martha, introduced me to these pickled radishes during a summer barbecue, and i’ve been hooked ever since!
These quick pickled radishes are incredibly versatile. I love adding them to tacos for a crunchy, acidic counterpoint to rich meats. They're also fantastic in salads, providing a burst of flavor and color. And sometimes, when I'm feeling snacky, I'll just grab a few straight from the jar – they're that addictive! Plus, they keep for weeks in the fridge, so you can always have a jar on hand for whenever the craving strikes. Imagine them sliced thinly over avocado toast... mmm!
What does this mean for you? It means you can easily elevate your meals with minimal effort. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof. The process is straightforward, and the results are consistently delicious. Think of it as your secret weapon for adding a touch of sophistication to even the simplest dishes. One of my favourite memories is when I was baking a pie and I needed radishes so I went to the store, it was closed! I wish i’d known this recipe back then…
Transform ordinary radishes into a tangy, crunchy delight with this quick pickling recipe! Ready in under an hour, these pickled radishes add a vibrant pop of flavor to salads, tacos, or as a simple snack.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:1 pint servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
Prepare the radishes: Wash 1 pound of radishes thoroughly. Trim off the root end and the leafy tops. Slice the radishes thinly using a mandoline, a sharp knife, or a vegetable peeler. Slicing them thinly helps them absorb the brine quickly. I prefer mine about 1/8 inch thick.
Pack the radishes into a jar: Sterilize a pint-sized glass jar and lid by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Carefully remove the jar and lid and let them cool slightly. Pack the sliced radishes tightly into the sterilized jar, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Be sure not to overcrowd the jar to ensure even pickling.
Make the brine: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of white vinegar (5% acidity), 1/2 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Feel free to adjust the sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
Infuse with flavor (optional): Add any optional spices to the brine, such as 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat!), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), a few sprigs of fresh dill, or 1/4 teaspoon of black peppercorns. These additions can really customize the flavor profile of your pickled radishes.
Bring the brine to a boil: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the brine to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. This ensures a smooth and well-balanced brine.
Pour the brine over the radishes: Carefully pour the hot brine over the radishes in the jar, making sure to completely submerge them. If needed, gently press the radishes down with a clean utensil to release any trapped air bubbles. Leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
Seal the jar: Wipe the rim of the jar with a clean, damp cloth to remove any spills. Place the lid on top of the jar and screw on the band until it is fingertip tight. Don’t overtighten, as this can prevent the jar from sealing properly. it’s important to make sure they’re properly sealed otherwise you can run into some issues.
Cool and refrigerate: Let the jar cool to room temperature on the counter for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer the jar to the refrigerator and let the radishes pickle for at least 30 minutes before serving. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they will become. They are best after 24 hours.
Store and enjoy: The quick pickled radishes will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Make sure to use a clean utensil each time you remove radishes from the jar to prevent contamination. These are absolutely delicious with tacos and sandwiches
📝 Notes
Add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds for extra flavor.
Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.