Radishes, red, raw
Whole food · Vegetables and Vegetable Products
Photo: Wikipedia
The red radish is a crisp, peppery root vegetable with a vibrant crimson skin and stark white flesh, offering a satisfying crunch and a sharp, mustard-like bite. At only 20 calories per 100g, it is a nutrient-dense, low-energy food that provides a notable amount of fiber (1.3g) and essential minerals like vitamin C and potassium. Its signature flavor comes from glucosinolates, sulfur-containing compounds that also give it potential health benefits.
💚 Why it's loved
People adore radishes for their refreshing crunch and bold, peppery flavor that can elevate a simple salad or sandwich. Their versatility in both raw and cooked preparations, from pickling to roasting, makes them a staple in many global cuisines, adding color and zing.
⚠️ Watch-outs & how to enjoy it better
The strong, pungent flavor can be off-putting to some, especially those sensitive to spicy or bitter tastes. For individuals with sensitive digestive systems, the high fiber and sulfur compounds may cause gas or bloating; pairing with a fat like olive oil or yogurt can help mellow the flavor and improve digestion.
Key benefits
- Very low calorie density, ideal for weight management.
- Good source of dietary fiber for digestive health.
- Rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function.
- Contains glucosinolates, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.
- High water content (over 95%) aids in hydration.
🍽️ Popular dishes
🌍 Where it's eaten
💡 Did you know?
Ancient Egyptians were among the first to cultivate radishes, and they were so valued that they were used as currency to pay the workers who built the pyramids.
Full nutrition (scales with serving)
| Water | 94.7 g |
| Energy (Atwater General Factors) | 19.6 kcal |
| Nitrogen | 0.10 g |
| Protein | 0.66 g |
| Total lipid (fat) | 0.08 g |
| Ash | 0.52 g |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 4.1 g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 1.3 g |
| Sugars, Total | 2.6 g |
| Sucrose | 0.00 g |
| Glucose | 1.6 g |
| Fructose | 1.1 g |
| Lactose | 0.00 g |
| Maltose | 0.00 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 21.5 mg |
| Iron, Fe | 0.00 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 8.9 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 17.9 mg |
| Potassium, K | 198 mg |
| Sodium, Na | 51.2 mg |
| Zinc, Zn | 0.10 mg |
| Copper, Cu | 0.00 mg |
| Manganese, Mn | 0.07 mg |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 17.8 mg |
| Biotin | 0.86 ug |
| Folate, total | 63.2 ug |
FAQ
Are radishes good for weight loss?
Yes, radishes are very low in calories (20 kcal per 100g) and high in water and fiber, which can help you feel full without consuming excess energy.
Can I eat radish leaves?
Absolutely! Radish greens are edible and nutritious, often used in salads, sautés, or as a garnish. They have a slightly bitter, peppery flavor similar to arugula.
How should I store radishes to keep them fresh?
Store radishes in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. Remove the leafy tops before storage to prevent moisture loss, and they should last for about 1-2 weeks.