For years I thought radishes were the most bland vegetable around. I had friends try to persuade me to grow them and I would simply grin and say, “Oh I don’t really eat them.” One day I gave in. With a growth cycle of just a mere 21 days I thought – why not. What I discovered is that radishes are one of my favorite vegetables, in fact I’m thinking of writing an ‘Ode to Radishes‘. Raw, they are so peppery and flavorful that my taste buds literally have a party in my mouth. You can of course slice them thinly with a mandolin slicer and toss them in salads or with other root vegetables and serve raw. But did you know that these beautiful little buxom veggies are incredible roasted? Oh yes step aside potato, red pepper, and butternut squash – the radish may just be the most delicious roasted vegetable to ever grow on this planet (recipe below). Plus did you know that radishes help with:
Weight Loss – Radishes are very filling, which mean that they satisfy your hunger without running up your calorie count. They are also low in digestible carbohydrates, high in roughage and contain a lot of water, making radishes a very good dietary option for those who are determined to lose weight.
Cancer – Since radishes are detoxifiers and are rich in vitamin-C, folic and anthocyanins, they have been connected to treating many types of cancer, particularly colon, kidney, intestinal, stomach and oral cancer.
Constipation – Radishes are very high in fiber which means they can assist with alleviating constipation.
Blood Pressure – Radishes are a very good source of potassium, which contributes to a large list of health benefits. Potassium has been positively connected to reducing blood pressure, because when it interacts with the arterial supply of vascular beds, it can relax the blood vessels, and therefore increase blood flow.
Insect Bites – Radishes have anti-pruritic properties and can be used as an effective treatment for insect bites and bee stings.
Liver & Gallbladder – Radishes are especially beneficial for liver and gallbladder functions. They regulate production and flow of bile and bilirubin, acids, and enzymes. Furthermore, it also removes excess bilirubin from the blood. Regular consumption of radishes protects your liver and gallbladder from infections and ulcers.
Bad Breath -That zingy taste in radishes also helps reduce bad breath.
Skin Disorders – Vitamin-C, phosphorus, zinc and some members of vitamin-B complex that are present in radishes are good for the skin. The water in radishes also helps to maintain healthy moisture levels in the skin.
Roasted Radishes
2 bunches radishes, halved with tops removed
5-7 sprigs of thyme, leaves removed
2Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat to 450 degrees.
Toss radishes with thyme leaves and olive oil and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Place radishes in an oven safe baking dish and roast for about 20 minutes, tossing after 12 minutes for even cooking. Remove when starting to brown around edges.