Dessert

Watermelon Radish Salad with Miso, Maple, and Sesame Recipe

ByMaya Arden April 2, 2026April 2, 2026

Introduction

This Watermelon Radish Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring crisp, thinly sliced radishes tossed in a flavorful miso-maple vinaigrette. It’s a perfect light starter or a colorful side to brighten up any meal.

Thin slices of pink radish with green edges are rolled and arranged in a circular pattern inside a white bowl. The radish slices are topped with a light dressing that has a slightly shiny texture, sprinkled with white and black sesame seeds, and finely chopped green herbs. Small green mint leaves are scattered on top, adding color contrast. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 watermelon radishes, thinly sliced with a mandolin or potato peeler
1 tbsp white miso

2 tsp maple syrup
Ginger, grated to taste

2 scallions, finely chopped (light green and white parts; reserve green for topping)
1/2 lemon

1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp tamari
1 tsp sesame oil

1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Black and white sesame seeds, for topping

Fresh mint, for topping and to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together the white miso, maple syrup, grated ginger, chopped scallions (light green and white parts), juice of half a lemon, rice vinegar, tamari, sesame oil, olive oil, salt, and pepper until fully combined to create the vinaigrette.
Step 2: Fold each radish slice gently in half and arrange them neatly in a shallow bowl or serving dish.

Step 3: Pour the vinaigrette evenly over the folded radishes and let the salad sit for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the radishes to soften slightly.
Step 4: Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with black and white sesame seeds, the reserved green parts of the scallions, and fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use a mandolin or sharp peeler to slice radishes thinly for a tender, foldable texture.

Add thin slices of cucumber or avocado for extra creaminess and crunch.
Adjust the amount of ginger and maple syrup to suit your taste preferences for spice and sweetness.
For a vegan option, ensure the tamari is gluten-free and omit any non-vegan ingredients.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The radishes will soften further over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, gently toss and freshen the salad with extra lemon juice before serving. Avoid storing with the sesame seed and mint toppings—they should be added just before serving to maintain their texture.

How to Serve

Thin, curved slices of pink and light green watermelon radish are arranged in a circular pattern inside a white bowl, creating one layered flower-like shape. The radish slices have a smooth texture with a gradient from bright pink in the center to pale green edges. Scattered throughout the radish are small black and white sesame seeds sprinkled on top, adding little dots of contrast. Small green leaves are placed sporadically among the radish slices, giving fresh color pops. A clear glossy dressing lightly coats the radish, reflecting light softly. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular radishes instead of watermelon radishes?

Yes, regular radishes can be used, but watermelon radishes have a unique mild sweetness and vibrant color that makes this salad especially attractive and flavorful.