Have you ever wondered how to cook radishes? Whether oven-baked or air-fried, garlic roasted radishes make an excellent choice for anyone who wants a delicious, tasty, high fiber, and healthy side dish. For a quick and healthy meal, serve them alongside tuna patties and crinkle fries.
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Introduction
When most people think about fresh radishes, they imagine the small red and white spheres with a bold peppery taste served raw on a crudités platter or in a salad.
Some love them for their crisp zing and spicy flavor, while others stay far away from this root vegetable.
No matter which side you fall on, this recipe for garlic roasted radishes, whether baked in the oven or air fried, will transform you into a radish fan.
Roasting radishes work much the same way as roasting other root vegetables like carrots or turnips. However, the simple process of cooking them changes the taste and consistency.
The high heat intensifies their natural sweetness. This is an excellent way to convince those who do not like them to give it another try and an amazing way for radish lovers to enjoy them even more frequently.
What do roasted radishes taste like?
Oven-roasted or air fryer-baked radishes change in taste and texture from their raw state. The first thing you will notice is that some of the peppery zing and sharp bite disappears after they are cooked.
They acquire a subtle sweetness without having high overall sugar content—the texture changes to one more like a roasted potato. In fact, people who eat low carb or keto diets sometimes replace the high-carb tubers with cooked radishes instead.
Whether you love radishes already or avoid these crisp, peppery root vegetables, consider trying garlic roasted radishes for a new, delicious experience. While they hold on to some of their unique flavors, the changes that occur with roasting create a new taste sensation altogether. When combined with the amazing flavor and aroma of roasted garlic, you may have a new favorite.
Garlic Roasted Radishes Step by Step
Let’s take a look at how to make garlic roasted radishes that you can easily serve with a wide variety of main meals. This includes oven or air-fryer instructions specifically for radishes you harvest from your garden, but you can certainly cook with store-bought ones, too.
Since they are one of the easiest vegetables to grow in many climates, you might want to try adding them to your outdoor space, so you have a fresh supply on hand for this delicious recipe.
Harvest and Clean the Radishes
Harvest raw radishes from your garden as soon as they are mature for the best taste and texture. If you wait too long, they will get harder and have less flavor.
If you buy these root vegetables from a grocery store or a farmer’s market, look for firm, brightly colored bunches.
Trim the radish tops and the long dangling root with a sharp knife neatly from the bulb. If there are any flaws or spots, cut those off too. Discard all these pieces or add them to your compost heap for next year’s garden. See note below for how to use radish tops.
Wash the radishes next. Use cold water and a stiff-bristled vegetable brush to get all the dirt off. Most store-bought radishes have already gone through a scrubbing process, so a vigorous rinse and rub with your fingers is probably sufficient.
If you are not cooking them right away, do not wash your trimmed root vegetable. Instead, place it in a plastic bag and refrigerate. In this manner, they will maintain most of their crispness in the vegetable drawer for about one week.
Prepare the Radishes for Roasting
After all the radishes are properly trimmed and washed, pat them dry with a clean tea towel.
It is now time to cut them into appropriate sizes and shapes for roasting. How much you need to cut them depends on the original size. Begin by cutting them in half so that the creamy white interiors can be exposed and roasted. For the larger bulbs, cut into quarters.
While were are prepping, take the time to mince 2 garlic cloves. Feel free to use a garlic press or a sharp knife. Adjust the total amount to your personal tastes. Set aside for now.
How to Cook Radishes in the Oven
First, place the oven rack in the lower third of the oven—Preheat the oven to 425° F (220°C). Also, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Place all of the cleaned and cut radish pieces in a large bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add ¼ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper. Feel free to adjust according to personal taste. Toss radishes around in the oil and seasonings to ensure even coverage.
Transfer them to the prepared baking sheet and spread them out in a single layer for even cooking.
After 15 minutes, remove from the oven and toss them in the same mixing bowl previously used with 2 cloves of minced garlic.
Please return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
The entire roasting process takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes, depending on the size of the radishes.
Remember to taste for doneness. They should have a similar consistency to potatoes. Garnish with minced parsley (optional) and serve immediately.
Air Fryer Radishes
Most vegetables you cook in your oven can also go in the air fryer to save time, energy and deliver a slightly different taste at the end of the cooking process. For example, air fryer radishes end up just as flavorful and firm as oven-roasted ones.
As is usually the case, the total cooking time and the temperature you use depend on your air fryer’s size and specifications. For best results, consult your manufacturer’s instructions or website for detailed information.
The step-by-step process of how to cook radishes in an air fryer remains basically the same as oven roasting.
- In a large bowl, toss and coat 1 pound of fresh radish (stems removed, ends trimmed and halved) with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ¼ teaspoon of salt and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper.
- Place in the basket and air fry them at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 8 minutes.
- Remove from the air fryer and toss them in the same mixing bowl previously used with 2 cloves of minced garlic.
- Air fry again at the same temperature for an additional 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown on the edges and crisp.
- Remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh chopped parsley (optional) and serve immediately.
Remember to taste for doneness. They should have a similar consistency to potatoes.
Tips
- Always preheat your oven or air fryer. High temperatures are essential in achieving that crispy texture.
- One pound of radishes is about 2 store-bought bunches.
- If harvesting your own radishes, scrub them properly before cutting them in half to prevent contamination from the soil.
- Cutting the radishes roughly the same size ensures uniform cooking and the best consistency.
- While you could use dried garlic powder, fresh tastes so much better in this type of recipe.
- Please do not add the garlic at the beginning of the roasting process because it will overcook and burn.
FAQ
Did you know that radish greens are edible? Just like carrot greens, the leaves from fresh radishes can be eaten raw or cooked with no problem. They have a bit of the same peppery flavors that the roots do, but it is much milder. Consider chopping them up in a salad or sautéing them with a drizzle of olive oil and garlic themselves. You can store them in the refrigerator for a few days before use.
If you see any seedpods in the greens, take out the seeds to use next year. Dry them out before harvesting seeds to store. You can also eat these with the greens raw or cooked.
The world has dozens of different types of radishes, each with its own unique look and flavor. As a whole, the group offers a lot of nutritional power in vitamins and particularly antioxidants. They include vitamin C, potassium, folate, vitamin B6, and more. The amount of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron is considerably higher for a vegetable, too. One cup has one gram of protein, and half of its carbohydrates come from fiber.
Even though they grow underground, radishes are not related to carrots or potatoes very closely. Instead, they are cruciferous vegetables like cabbage. This gives them the same health benefits for fighting inflammation and helping to regulate H pylori in the gut. These delicious root vegetables also contain a compound that may help protect against cancer. [source]
What Varieties Work?
With all of these health benefits, you may want to explore the whole range of radish options. For this garlic roasted radishes recipe, however, some work better than others. Consider these following popular varieties:
- Watermelon radishes with a unique pink and white center are crisp and sweet, making them best for eating raw.
- Classic red radishes have a firmer texture and more spice. They roast very well and are highly recommended for this recipe.
- White icicle or French radishes look more like white carrots. They have a delicate flavor that works well for both raw and cooked dishes.
- Daikon radishes are large purple or white roots often found in Asian cooking. They roast up well but are more commonly used in stir-fries and for pickling.
Within these different radish varieties, there are many named hybrids. You can also find unique types like black Spanish radishes, giant ones, purple varieties, and more. Experiment when roasting radishes or make a dish with a mixture for a colorful and flavorful presentation
Serving Suggestions
All these details in this ultimate guide on how to cook radishes should convince you that roasting them with garlic makes for a delicious and nutritious side dish all on its own. Of course, you can serve this easily next to baked chicken, seared meats, or a vegetarian dish.
Whether you cook them in the oven or try air fryer radishes, you get the same incredible taste without the peppery bite some people do not like when they are raw. As this preparation method will quickly become a favorite, you might like to think of new seasonings to add.
Variations
There are no limitations in adding herbs, spices, and other ingredients to this unique take on cooked root vegetables. Try some of the following combinations to see which ones you and your family like the best. They also make great choices for potluck picnics and parties.
- Add red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
- Mix in bacon bits and caramelized diced onion.
- Combine garden-fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and parmesan for a basil pesto radish variation.
- Roast radishes with lemon slices.
- Drizzle lemon juice or parsley pesto over the roasted radishes.
- Go southwest with chili powder, cumin, cayenne, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
Roast Daikon Radish in an Asian Style
If you use these large radishes common in east Asian cooking, take things one step farther with classic spices frequently used in their recipes. Keep the garlic and add more pepper, coriander, turmeric, ginger, and even a splash of soy sauce or tamari. Before serving, drizzle a touch of sesame oil on top for the perfect finish.
Additional air fryer recipes
If you love the air fryer as much as I do, consider preparing more side dishes with this helpful tool. Air fried potatoes are a classic side dish you can serve with any meal. Two other vegetables that provide a wonderful nutty taste are these roasted cauliflower or zucchini sticks recipes.
Recipe origins
I was never a fan of fresh radishes except when carved into a radish flower. They really do make a stunning addition to any vegetable platter.
Only as a young adult did I learn about the magical transformation that vegetables undergo after roasting them. That’s when I fell in love with roasted radishes.
Fast forward a few decades and I am now using my air fryer for cooking them. You can probably already imagine that if I’m sharing this recipe with all of you, it’s because both methods will provide you with a delicious side dish.
The versatility of roasting root vegetables like radishes of all varieties can expand your recipe repertoire considerably. It also helps to use a convection oven to get the same amazing results.
This is a great way to use up more of your rampant radish crop from your backyard vegetable garden. Even off-season, it will convince you to reach for a bunch of radishes at the store, too.
I hope you get a chance to try it.
Enjoy!
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If you are interested, the air fryer I am using is the Breville Smart Toaster Oven. Head on over to my amazon store for all the details.
THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.
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Maria
★★★★★ If you have made these roasted radishes, I would love to hear about them in the comments below and be sure to rate the recipe!
Recipe
How to Cook Radishes – Oven or Air Fried
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Ingredients
- 2 bunches radishes 1 pound, washed, trimmed and halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil extra virgin
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- minced parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- If using the oven, preheat to 425℉ (220°C). Place rack in the lower third of the oven.If using an air fryer, preheat to 400° F (200°C).
- Place the cut radishes in a large bowl.
- Add olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss together thoroughly to evenly coat the radishes.
- If using the oven, spread the radishes on a parchment-lined sheet pan or air fryer basket large enough to space out evenly and accommodate in a single layer.
- For Oven: Bake at 425℉ (220°C) for about 15 minutes. Remove them from the oven and toss with the minced garlic. Please return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown. For Air Fryer: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes. Remove them from the air fryer and toss with the minced garlic. Return and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Taste for doneness.
- Once done, transfer to a serving plate, garnish with minced parsley and serve immediately.
Video
Notes
- Always preheat your oven or air fryer. High temperatures are essential in achieving that crispy texture.
- One pound of radishes is about 2 store-bought bunches.
- If harvesting your own radishes, scrub them properly before cutting them in half to prevent contamination from the soil.
- Cutting the radishes roughly the same size ensures uniform cooking and the best consistency.
- While you could use dried garlic powder, fresh tastes so much better in this type of recipe.
- Please do not add the garlic at the beginning of the roasting process because it will overcook and burn.
- Baking temperatures for the air fryer are just a guideline. Make sure to consult your manual.
C. King
Awesome thank u.
Maria
My pleasure! Thanks so much for stopping by!
val
One of my favorite vegetables… especially when they are roasted. Thanks Maria!
Maria
I agree Val! They are so tasty! Thanks for stopping by Val, I appreciate it!