Char-Grilled Radishes with Apple, Dates, & Crispy Radish Greens

1. Prepare radish greens

First, take your bunch of radishes and separate the greens from the roots. If the greens are fresh, they can be a delicious part of this dish. Wash them thoroughly in a salad spinner to remove any dirt. In a large skillet, heat a splash of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the radish greens, a pinch of kosher salt, some freshly ground black pepper, and a sprinkle of dried chile flakes. Cook the greens until they are slightly wilted and tender. This should take just a few minutes. Once done, set them aside to cool.

2. Grill or roast radishes

While the greens are cooling, preheat your grill or oven to high heat, around 450°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals get nice and hot until they’re covered with white ash. Scrub the radishes clean, then spread them out on the grill or a baking sheet if using the oven. Grill or roast the radishes for 12 to 15 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are slightly soft when squeezed. This grilling step intensifies their natural sweetness and gives them a lovely char.

3. Prepare vinegar dressing

Once the radishes are cool enough to handle, halve them and place them in a large mixing bowl. Return to your radish greens now that they are cooled, chop them roughly and toss them with a splash of red or white wine vinegar and a bit more olive oil to taste. This vinegar dressing helps to balance the richness of the grilled radishes with a bright, tangy flavor.

4. Combine salad ingredients

To the bowl with the radish halves, add the chopped dates, thinly sliced apple and red onion, marinated radish tops, and parsley leaves. Season with a bit more kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of chile flakes. Toss everything together gently so the flavors meld but the ingredients keep their integrity.

5. Finish and serve

Finally, drizzle a bit more olive oil over the salad and sprinkle the roughly chopped toasted almonds on top. Give the mixture one last toss to ensure everything is well coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—this is your moment to make sure the flavors are bright and balanced. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.