You might think of the humble radish as a mere salad sidekick.

This spring, we invite you to take a closer look at this snappyyet often overlookedgem of a root.

Food Styling: Greg Luna

Youre familiar with common red radishes and perhaps others like Easter egg and watermelon.

types of radishes on blue green background

Credit:Jacob Fox. Food Styling: Greg Luna

Here are a few types of radishes to seek out at farmers markets or try growing at home.

Plus, we’re sharing our favorite radish recipes.

What Are Radishes?

french breakfast radish

Credit:Jacob Fox

Radishes are a root vegetable that comes in a variety of sizes and colors.

you’re free to eat them raw or cooked.

you’re able to even saute, roast, orpickle radishes.

bacchus radish

Credit:Jacob Fox

Many different radish varieties can be used interchangeably, so experiment to find the ones you enjoy most.

And dont toss the greens!

Add them to salads or saute in garlic and olive oil for a simple side.

shunkyo semi long radish

Credit:Jacob Fox

What Do Radishes Taste Like?

The flavor of radishes varies greatly from variety to variety.

Some are very mild in flavor, while others can be quite spicy.

nero tondo radish

Credit:Jacob Fox

Our Test Kitchen recommends trying radishes on their own to see which flavor profile you like best.

Bacchus

Round in shape with rich purple skin, this radish can become quite spicy.

Try it stir-fried or roasted to tame the heat.

alpine radish

Credit:Jacob Fox

Nero Tondo

The black Spanish heirloom radish has a sharp, peppery flavor reminiscent of horseradish.

How to Grow Radishes

Radishes are an easy seed-sown crop.

How to Store Radishes

Cut off the green radish tops for longer storage.

helios radish

Credit:Jacob Fox

Radishes will stay fresh in the refrigerator 3 to 4 weeks.

How to Cook with Radishes

There are so many ways to cook with radishes.

Try eating them with butter, bread, and salt.

kn bravo radish

Credit:Jacob Fox

Or, thinly slice them andadd them to a salad.

If you want to try cooking radishes, we love making this sheet pan dinner withRoasted Salmon and Radishes.

Roasted radishes are also delicious in thisBeet Salad.

soros radish

For a new take on veggie crudite, try poaching radishes and serving them with a tangyWalnut Sauce.