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Watermelon Radish Carpaccio - Crisp, Bright, and Effortlessly Elegant

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Watermelon radishes (2–3 medium, firm and heavy for their size)
  • Extra-virgin olive oil (good quality for drizzling)
  • Lemon (zest and juice)
  • Honey or maple syrup (just a touch)
  • Sea salt (flake salt if you have it)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • Fresh herbs (dill, chives, or parsley)
  • Capers (rinsed and patted dry; optional)
  • Shaved Parmesan or pecorino (optional)
  • Toasted nuts or seeds (pistachios, almonds, or pumpkin seeds; optional)
  • Good-quality flaky finishing salt (optional but recommended)

Method
 

  1. Prep the radishes: Scrub the watermelon radishes and trim both ends. If the skin is tough, peel lightly, but keep as much color as possible.
  2. Slice thinly: Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice into paper-thin rounds. Aim for transparency—you should almost be able to see through them.
  3. Arrange the carpaccio: Fan the slices on a large plate or platter, overlapping slightly to create a mosaic. Keep it to a single layer for best texture.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons olive oil with 1 tablespoon lemon juice, a pinch of zest, and 1/2 teaspoon honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Dress lightly: Spoon or drizzle the dressing evenly over the radish slices. You want a thin, glossy coat—not a pool.
  6. Add the accents: Sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs. Scatter a few capers and a handful of shaved Parmesan if using. Finish with toasted nuts or seeds for crunch.
  7. Season to finish: Add a final pinch of flaky sea salt and a twist of black pepper. A light extra drizzle of olive oil won’t hurt.
  8. Rest briefly: Let the plate sit for 5–10 minutes so the flavors open up and the radish softens slightly.
  9. Serve: Bring it to the table as a starter or side. It pairs beautifully with crisp white wine, sparkling water with citrus, or a light roast chicken or fish.