How to Cut Fancy Radishes

Radishes can be transformed into decorative --- and edible --- flowers.

Serving hors d'oevres is a convenient way to keep your guests occupied while you are putting the finishing touches on dinner. If you are planning on providing a vegetable tray, consider including some red radishes for a touch of color. Go one step further and cut the radishes into fancy flower shapes. It's easy to do and your guests will be impressed with your culinary talents. Does this Spark an idea?

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Red globe radishes
Sharp paring knife
Bowl

Instructions

Radish Roses
- 1
  
  Remove the green leaves from the radishes and wash under running water. Use the tip of the knife to remove the stems from the radishes.
- 2
  
  Cut four lines approximately 1/4 inch deep across the top of the radish so that the cuts intersect in the center of the top of the radish and eight equal line segments are formed.
- 3
  
  Cut a narrow triangle shape around each of the eight line segments with the base of the triangle at the middle of the radish and the point of the triangle at the top.
- 4
  
  Remove the radish pieces as they are cut away to reveal eight petals.
- 5
  
  Create another row of petals by cutting diagonal lines parallel to the first row of petals about 1/2 inch below the first row.
- 6
  
  Use your fingertips to gently spread the second row of petals outward. Place the radishes in a bowl of ice water to help open the petals to create a beautiful, red blossom.
Radish Blossoms
- 7
  
  Remove the leaves from the radishes and wash under running water. Make a thin slice across the top of the radish to remove the stem.
- 8
  
  Hold the radish between your pointer finger and your thumb so that the side of the radish is facing out.
- 9
  
  Locate the midpoint between the top and bottom of the radish. Hold the knife at a 45 degree angle and insert the knife halfway into the radish to create a diagonal cut.
- 10
  
  Pull the knife out and make another opposite diagonal cut so that the two cuts you made meet at a point to form a partial triangle.
- 11
  
  Continue making diagonal cuts all the way around the side of the radish until you make the final cut that meets the first cut.
- 12
  
  Hold the top half of the radish between two fingers and the bottom half with your other hand. Twist gently in opposite directions to pull the halves apart to reveal two decorative radish blossoms.

Tips & Warnings

Store radishes in the refrigerator for up to seven days after purchasing.
Wash and salt radishes to tone down the peppery flavor.
Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly using soap and warm water prior to handling produce to prevent cross-contamination.