Shaved Watermelon Radish and Asparagus Salad with Castelvetrano Olives and Gouda

This salad is a beautiful mosaic of complementary textures and fresh spring flavors. Look for magenta-centered watermelon radishes at farmers’ markets. If you can’t track them down, substitute another radish variety. Castelvetranos are big, buttery, bright green olives that are found at most specialty markets. White balsamic vinegar adds sweet acidity without the dark color of regular balsamic, allowing the vibrant colors of this dish to shine.

• 
  
  60 medium-large asparagus spears, ends trimmed or snapped away
  
  


• 
  
  2 cups Castelvetrano olives
  
  


• 
  
  Good-quality extra-virgin olive oil for dressing
  
  


• 
  
  White balsamic vinegar for dressing
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly cracked pepper
  
  


• 
  
  4 medium watermelon radishes, trimmed
  
  


• 
  
  5 oz. Gouda or other semifirm cheese
  
  

Have ready a steamer rack and a pan of simmering water. Fill a large bowl with ice water and place near the stove. Line a platter with a double thickness of paper towels and place near the ice water. Working in batches, arrange about one-third of the asparagus on the steamer rack and place the rack over the water, making sure the water is 1 inch or so below the rack. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and steam the asparagus until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Using tongs, immediately transfer the asparagus to the bowl of ice water. Let cool for a few minutes and then transfer the asparagus to the towel-lined platter and blot dry. Repeat with the remaining asparagus, steaming and cooling them in two batches.

Using a sharp paring knife, slice each asparagus spear in half lengthwise, or in thirds if the spears are particularly thick. Set aside.

Pit the olives by crushing them with the side of a chef’s knife or other
hard, flat object. Work the pits out with your fingers and discard.
Place the olives back into the olive juice (to keep their bright green
color) and refrigerate until needed.

Place the asparagus in a bowl
and toss with just enough olive oil to coat without leaving a puddle at
the bottom of the bowl. Drizzle with a splash of vinegar, season with
salt and pepper, and then gently toss again. Arrange the asparagus on a
platter or divide among individual salad plates.

Using a mandoline set on the narrowest setting, shave the radishes into rounds and place in a bowl. Toss the radish slices with just enough olive oil to coat, add a splash of vinegar, and then season with salt and pepper and toss again. Spread the radish slices across the center of the plated asparagus. Drain the olives and scatter them around the platter or plates. Using a vegetable peeler, shave thin slices of the cheese over the top. Garnish with pepper and serve immediately.

Radish, Carrot, and Edamame Stir-Fry

A quick turn in a sizzling-hot wok gives radishes and carrots deliciously browned edges. Be sure to cut the vegetables into uniform slices so they cook evenly. This is a great side dish for seafood.

• 
  
  2 Tbs. mirin
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. reduced-sodium soy sauce
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. peanut oil
  
  


• 
  
  5 medium carrots (about 3/4 lb.), peeled, halved lengthwise, and cut on the diagonal into 1/4-inch-thick slices
  
  


• 
  
  1-3/4 lb. radishes (about 2 bunches), trimmed and sliced crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick rounds (reserve tops for another use, if desired)
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. minced garlic
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. minced fresh ginger
  
  


• 
  
  2/3 cup shelled edamame (thawed, if using frozen)
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds
  
  

In a small bowl, combine the mirin, soy sauce, and 1/2 tsp. salt.

Heat a 14-inch flat-bottom wok (or a 12-inch heavy-duty skillet) over high heat. Swirl in the oil. Add the carrots and radishes and stir-fry until the edges begin to brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger, and continue to stir-fry until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 2 minutes more.

Add the edamame and soy sauce mixture and stir-fry until just heated through, about 1 minute. Stir in the sesame seeds and serve.

Butter-Braised Radishes

This simple, flavorful braise yields luscious, tender radishes. Their peppery-sweet taste is offset by tangy cider vinegar, rich butter, and just a pinch of sugar. They’re a delicious accompaniment to roast pork or chicken.

• 
  
  1-3/4 lb. radishes (about 2 bunches), tops removed and reserved
  
  


• 
  
  1-1/2 Tbs. unsalted butter
  
  


• 
  
  2/3 cup lower-salt chicken or vegetable broth
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. cider vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. granulated sugar
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  

Trim the radishes and slice them crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick rounds. Trim and discard the stems from a small handful of the tops, wash the leaves thoroughly, pat dry, and then finely chop enough to measure 2 Tbs. (Save the rest of the tops for another use.)

In a 10-inch skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the radishes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the radishes are crisp-tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Uncover, raise the heat to high, and add the vinegar, sugar, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced to a glaze, 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with the chopped leaves and serve.

Garden Lettuce Salad with Skirt Steak, Avocado & Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

This recipe is just a simple garden lettuce salad, but the avocado, toasted pumpkin seeds, and skirt steak make it much more satisfying. A mandoline works especially well to quickly, easily, and evenly slice the carrots and radishes.

• 
  
  1 clove garlic, pounded to a smooth paste with a pinch of salt
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. freshly squeezed lime juice; more as needed
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. red-wine vinegar; more as needed
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. cumin seed, toasted and lightly ground (so still a little coarse)
  
  


• 
  
  1⁄2 tsp. sweet paprika
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  9 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  
  


• 
  
  1 shallot, thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  1⁄2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  
  


• 
  
  One 1-1⁄4-lb. skirt steak, cold
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly ground black pepper
  
  


• 
  
  2 ripe avocados
  
  


• 
  
  4 large handfuls assorted mild garden lettuces, about 8 ounces total, washed and dried
  
  


• 
  
  2 medium-size carrots, very thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  3 radishes, such as French breakfast, very thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  Aleppo pepper, for sprinkling (optional)
  
  

To make the vinaigrette, combine the garlic, lime juice, vinegar, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Whisk in 6 Tbs. of the olive oil. Taste with a leaf of lettuce and adjust the vinaigrette with more lime juice, vinegar, or salt if necessary. Set aside.

Put the shallot in a small bowl and cover with ice water. (The ice water crisps the shallot and helps remove some its hot and gassy flavor.) Set aside.

Warm a small sauté pan over medium heat and add 1 Tbs. of the olive oil and the pumpkin seeds. Fry the seeds, tossing or stirring frequently, until golden, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel and season with salt.

Cut the skirt steak into about 6-inch lengths and return it to the refrigerator until shortly before you are ready to cook it. (Because skirt steak is so thin, you want the beef cold to prevent it from overcooking before it browns.) Season the beef with salt and coarsely ground black pepper. Warm a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot.

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and place the beef in the pan without overlapping the strips. Cook until the beef is nicely browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn and cook on the opposite side until medium rare, 1 to 2 minutes more; time will vary depending on the thickness of the meat. (If necessary, reduce the heat to medium high to finish cooking thicker sections of the meat.) Transfer to a plate and let rest for about 5 minutes.

Cut the avocados in half lengthwise, remove the pits, and slice the flesh diagonally into about 1⁄4-inch slices. Set aside.

Drain the shallot. Put the salad greens in a large work bowl; sprinkle the shallot, carrots, and radishes on top and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss the salad with just enough vinaigrette to lightly coat the greens. Taste and add more salt if necessary. Add about half of the pumpkins seeds and toss once more. With a delicate hand, transfer the salad to a platter or individual serving plates, evenly distributing the seeds, carrots, and radishes that may have fallen to the bottom of the bowl. Then, using a large spoon and starting at the very edge of the avocado (where skin meets flesh), scoop the flesh out of the avocado in one swoop. Separate the avocado slices and tuck them here and there among the greens. (At this point, I like to season the avocado, as best I can, with salt.) Thinly slice the meat against the grain. Arrange the skirt steak on the side or in the salad. Drizzle any remaining vinaigrette on and around the salad, focusing on the avocado and beef. Sprinkle the Aleppo pepper (if using) and the remaining pumpkin seeds on top. Serve immediately.

Butter-Braised Radishes

This simple, flavorful braise yields luscious, tender radishes. Their peppery-sweet taste is offset by tangy cider vinegar, rich butter, and just a pinch of sugar. They’re a delicious accompaniment to roast pork or chicken.

• 
  
  1-3/4 lb. radishes (about 2 bunches), tops removed and reserved
  
  


• 
  
  1-1/2 Tbs. unsalted butter
  
  


• 
  
  2/3 cup lower-salt chicken or vegetable broth
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. cider vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. granulated sugar
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  

Trim the radishes and slice them crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick rounds. Trim and discard the stems from a small handful of the tops, wash the leaves thoroughly, pat dry, and then finely chop enough to measure 2 Tbs. (Save the rest of the tops for another use.)

In a 10-inch skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the radishes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the radishes are crisp-tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Uncover, raise the heat to high, and add the vinegar, sugar, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced to a glaze, 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with the chopped leaves and serve.

Butter-Braised Radishes

This simple, flavorful braise yields luscious, tender radishes. Their peppery-sweet taste is offset by tangy cider vinegar, rich butter, and just a pinch of sugar. They’re a delicious accompaniment to roast pork or chicken.

• 
  
  1-3/4 lb. radishes (about 2 bunches), tops removed and reserved
  
  


• 
  
  1-1/2 Tbs. unsalted butter
  
  


• 
  
  2/3 cup lower-salt chicken or vegetable broth
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. cider vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. granulated sugar
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  

Trim the radishes and slice them crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick rounds. Trim and discard the stems from a small handful of the tops, wash the leaves thoroughly, pat dry, and then finely chop enough to measure 2 Tbs. (Save the rest of the tops for another use.)

In a 10-inch skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the radishes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the radishes are crisp-tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Uncover, raise the heat to high, and add the vinegar, sugar, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced to a glaze, 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with the chopped leaves and serve.

Butter-Braised Radishes

This simple, flavorful braise yields luscious, tender radishes. Their peppery-sweet taste is offset by tangy cider vinegar, rich butter, and just a pinch of sugar. They’re a delicious accompaniment to roast pork or chicken.

• 
  
  1-3/4 lb. radishes (about 2 bunches), tops removed and reserved
  
  


• 
  
  1-1/2 Tbs. unsalted butter
  
  


• 
  
  2/3 cup lower-salt chicken or vegetable broth
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. cider vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. granulated sugar
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  

Trim the radishes and slice them crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick rounds. Trim and discard the stems from a small handful of the tops, wash the leaves thoroughly, pat dry, and then finely chop enough to measure 2 Tbs. (Save the rest of the tops for another use.)

In a 10-inch skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the radishes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the radishes are crisp-tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Uncover, raise the heat to high, and add the vinegar, sugar, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced to a glaze, 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with the chopped leaves and serve.

Garden Lettuce Salad with Skirt Steak, Avocado & Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

This recipe is just a simple garden lettuce salad, but the avocado, toasted pumpkin seeds, and skirt steak make it much more satisfying. A mandoline works especially well to quickly, easily, and evenly slice the carrots and radishes.

• 
  
  1 clove garlic, pounded to a smooth paste with a pinch of salt
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. freshly squeezed lime juice; more as needed
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. red-wine vinegar; more as needed
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. cumin seed, toasted and lightly ground (so still a little coarse)
  
  


• 
  
  1⁄2 tsp. sweet paprika
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  9 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  
  


• 
  
  1 shallot, thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  1⁄2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  
  


• 
  
  One 1-1⁄4-lb. skirt steak, cold
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly ground black pepper
  
  


• 
  
  2 ripe avocados
  
  


• 
  
  4 large handfuls assorted mild garden lettuces, about 8 ounces total, washed and dried
  
  


• 
  
  2 medium-size carrots, very thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  3 radishes, such as French breakfast, very thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  Aleppo pepper, for sprinkling (optional)
  
  

To make the vinaigrette, combine the garlic, lime juice, vinegar, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Whisk in 6 Tbs. of the olive oil. Taste with a leaf of lettuce and adjust the vinaigrette with more lime juice, vinegar, or salt if necessary. Set aside.

Put the shallot in a small bowl and cover with ice water. (The ice water crisps the shallot and helps remove some its hot and gassy flavor.) Set aside.

Warm a small sauté pan over medium heat and add 1 Tbs. of the olive oil and the pumpkin seeds. Fry the seeds, tossing or stirring frequently, until golden, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel and season with salt.

Cut the skirt steak into about 6-inch lengths and return it to the refrigerator until shortly before you are ready to cook it. (Because skirt steak is so thin, you want the beef cold to prevent it from overcooking before it browns.) Season the beef with salt and coarsely ground black pepper. Warm a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot.

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and place the beef in the pan without overlapping the strips. Cook until the beef is nicely browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn and cook on the opposite side until medium rare, 1 to 2 minutes more; time will vary depending on the thickness of the meat. (If necessary, reduce the heat to medium high to finish cooking thicker sections of the meat.) Transfer to a plate and let rest for about 5 minutes.

Cut the avocados in half lengthwise, remove the pits, and slice the flesh diagonally into about 1⁄4-inch slices. Set aside.

Drain the shallot. Put the salad greens in a large work bowl; sprinkle the shallot, carrots, and radishes on top and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss the salad with just enough vinaigrette to lightly coat the greens. Taste and add more salt if necessary. Add about half of the pumpkins seeds and toss once more. With a delicate hand, transfer the salad to a platter or individual serving plates, evenly distributing the seeds, carrots, and radishes that may have fallen to the bottom of the bowl. Then, using a large spoon and starting at the very edge of the avocado (where skin meets flesh), scoop the flesh out of the avocado in one swoop. Separate the avocado slices and tuck them here and there among the greens. (At this point, I like to season the avocado, as best I can, with salt.) Thinly slice the meat against the grain. Arrange the skirt steak on the side or in the salad. Drizzle any remaining vinaigrette on and around the salad, focusing on the avocado and beef. Sprinkle the Aleppo pepper (if using) and the remaining pumpkin seeds on top. Serve immediately.

Butter-Braised Radishes

This simple, flavorful braise yields luscious, tender radishes. Their peppery-sweet taste is offset by tangy cider vinegar, rich butter, and just a pinch of sugar. They’re a delicious accompaniment to roast pork or chicken.

• 
  
  1-3/4 lb. radishes (about 2 bunches), tops removed and reserved
  
  


• 
  
  1-1/2 Tbs. unsalted butter
  
  


• 
  
  2/3 cup lower-salt chicken or vegetable broth
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. cider vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. granulated sugar
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  

Trim the radishes and slice them crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick rounds. Trim and discard the stems from a small handful of the tops, wash the leaves thoroughly, pat dry, and then finely chop enough to measure 2 Tbs. (Save the rest of the tops for another use.)

In a 10-inch skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the radishes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the radishes are crisp-tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Uncover, raise the heat to high, and add the vinegar, sugar, and 1/2 tsp. salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced to a glaze, 2 to 3 minutes. Garnish with the chopped leaves and serve.

Garden Lettuce Salad with Skirt Steak, Avocado & Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

This recipe is just a simple garden lettuce salad, but the avocado, toasted pumpkin seeds, and skirt steak make it much more satisfying. A mandoline works especially well to quickly, easily, and evenly slice the carrots and radishes.

• 
  
  1 clove garlic, pounded to a smooth paste with a pinch of salt
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. freshly squeezed lime juice; more as needed
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. red-wine vinegar; more as needed
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. cumin seed, toasted and lightly ground (so still a little coarse)
  
  


• 
  
  1⁄2 tsp. sweet paprika
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  9 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  
  


• 
  
  1 shallot, thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  1⁄2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  
  


• 
  
  One 1-1⁄4-lb. skirt steak, cold
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly ground black pepper
  
  


• 
  
  2 ripe avocados
  
  


• 
  
  4 large handfuls assorted mild garden lettuces, about 8 ounces total, washed and dried
  
  


• 
  
  2 medium-size carrots, very thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  3 radishes, such as French breakfast, very thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  Aleppo pepper, for sprinkling (optional)
  
  

To make the vinaigrette, combine the garlic, lime juice, vinegar, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Whisk in 6 Tbs. of the olive oil. Taste with a leaf of lettuce and adjust the vinaigrette with more lime juice, vinegar, or salt if necessary. Set aside.

Put the shallot in a small bowl and cover with ice water. (The ice water crisps the shallot and helps remove some its hot and gassy flavor.) Set aside.

Warm a small sauté pan over medium heat and add 1 Tbs. of the olive oil and the pumpkin seeds. Fry the seeds, tossing or stirring frequently, until golden, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel and season with salt.

Cut the skirt steak into about 6-inch lengths and return it to the refrigerator until shortly before you are ready to cook it. (Because skirt steak is so thin, you want the beef cold to prevent it from overcooking before it browns.) Season the beef with salt and coarsely ground black pepper. Warm a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot.

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and place the beef in the pan without overlapping the strips. Cook until the beef is nicely browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn and cook on the opposite side until medium rare, 1 to 2 minutes more; time will vary depending on the thickness of the meat. (If necessary, reduce the heat to medium high to finish cooking thicker sections of the meat.) Transfer to a plate and let rest for about 5 minutes.

Cut the avocados in half lengthwise, remove the pits, and slice the flesh diagonally into about 1⁄4-inch slices. Set aside.

Drain the shallot. Put the salad greens in a large work bowl; sprinkle the shallot, carrots, and radishes on top and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss the salad with just enough vinaigrette to lightly coat the greens. Taste and add more salt if necessary. Add about half of the pumpkins seeds and toss once more. With a delicate hand, transfer the salad to a platter or individual serving plates, evenly distributing the seeds, carrots, and radishes that may have fallen to the bottom of the bowl. Then, using a large spoon and starting at the very edge of the avocado (where skin meets flesh), scoop the flesh out of the avocado in one swoop. Separate the avocado slices and tuck them here and there among the greens. (At this point, I like to season the avocado, as best I can, with salt.) Thinly slice the meat against the grain. Arrange the skirt steak on the side or in the salad. Drizzle any remaining vinaigrette on and around the salad, focusing on the avocado and beef. Sprinkle the Aleppo pepper (if using) and the remaining pumpkin seeds on top. Serve immediately.

Jícama, Radish, and Pickled Shallot Salad with Feta

Bright, zesty, and refreshing, this crunchy salad can be served over tacos, alongside black beans and rice, or eaten all on its own.

• 
  
  2 small shallots, cut in half crosswise and then thinly sliced lengthwise
  
  


• 
  
  3 Tbs. red wine vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  5 medium radishes, trimmed, quartered lengthwise and then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices
  
  


• 
  
  1 medium jícama (about 1 lb), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice
  
  


• 
  
  1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus 1 Tbs. cilantro leaves
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. fresh lime juice
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. honey
  
  


• 
  
  1/4 tsp. finely grated lime zest
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly ground black pepper
  
  


• 
  
  Pinch of cayenne
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. grapeseed oil
  
  


• 
  
  1/2 cup crumbled feta
  
  

In a small bowl, combine the shallots with the red wine vinegar and 1/4 tsp. salt; let sit until the shallots have mellowed and turned a light pink, about 15 minutes. Strain the shallots and discard the liquid.


In a medium bowl, toss the shallots, radishes, jícama, cilantro, and a pinch of salt.


In a small bowl, whisk the lime juice, honey, lime zest, 1/4 tsp. salt, a few grinds of black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. Gradually whisk in the grapeseed oil.


Toss the dressing with the vegetables. Fold in the feta and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Shaved Watermelon Radish and Asparagus Salad with Castelvetrano Olives and Gouda

This salad is a beautiful mosaic of complementary textures and fresh spring flavors. Look for magenta-centered watermelon radishes at farmers’ markets. If you can’t track them down, substitute another radish variety. Castelvetranos are big, buttery, bright green olives that are found at most specialty markets. White balsamic vinegar adds sweet acidity without the dark color of regular balsamic, allowing the vibrant colors of this dish to shine.

• 
  
  60 medium-large asparagus spears, ends trimmed or snapped away
  
  


• 
  
  2 cups Castelvetrano olives
  
  


• 
  
  Good-quality extra-virgin olive oil for dressing
  
  


• 
  
  White balsamic vinegar for dressing
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly cracked pepper
  
  


• 
  
  4 medium watermelon radishes, trimmed
  
  


• 
  
  5 oz. Gouda or other semifirm cheese
  
  

Have ready a steamer rack and a pan of simmering water. Fill a large bowl with ice water and place near the stove. Line a platter with a double thickness of paper towels and place near the ice water. Working in batches, arrange about one-third of the asparagus on the steamer rack and place the rack over the water, making sure the water is 1 inch or so below the rack. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and steam the asparagus until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Using tongs, immediately transfer the asparagus to the bowl of ice water. Let cool for a few minutes and then transfer the asparagus to the towel-lined platter and blot dry. Repeat with the remaining asparagus, steaming and cooling them in two batches.

Using a sharp paring knife, slice each asparagus spear in half lengthwise, or in thirds if the spears are particularly thick. Set aside.

Pit the olives by crushing them with the side of a chef’s knife or other
hard, flat object. Work the pits out with your fingers and discard.
Place the olives back into the olive juice (to keep their bright green
color) and refrigerate until needed.

Place the asparagus in a bowl
and toss with just enough olive oil to coat without leaving a puddle at
the bottom of the bowl. Drizzle with a splash of vinegar, season with
salt and pepper, and then gently toss again. Arrange the asparagus on a
platter or divide among individual salad plates.

Using a mandoline set on the narrowest setting, shave the radishes into rounds and place in a bowl. Toss the radish slices with just enough olive oil to coat, add a splash of vinegar, and then season with salt and pepper and toss again. Spread the radish slices across the center of the plated asparagus. Drain the olives and scatter them around the platter or plates. Using a vegetable peeler, shave thin slices of the cheese over the top. Garnish with pepper and serve immediately.

Jícama, Radish, and Pickled Shallot Salad with Feta

Bright, zesty, and refreshing, this crunchy salad can be served over tacos, alongside black beans and rice, or eaten all on its own.

• 
  
  2 small shallots, cut in half crosswise and then thinly sliced lengthwise
  
  


• 
  
  3 Tbs. red wine vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  5 medium radishes, trimmed, quartered lengthwise and then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices
  
  


• 
  
  1 medium jícama (about 1 lb), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice
  
  


• 
  
  1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus 1 Tbs. cilantro leaves
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. fresh lime juice
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. honey
  
  


• 
  
  1/4 tsp. finely grated lime zest
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly ground black pepper
  
  


• 
  
  Pinch of cayenne
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. grapeseed oil
  
  


• 
  
  1/2 cup crumbled feta
  
  

In a small bowl, combine the shallots with the red wine vinegar and 1/4 tsp. salt; let sit until the shallots have mellowed and turned a light pink, about 15 minutes. Strain the shallots and discard the liquid.


In a medium bowl, toss the shallots, radishes, jícama, cilantro, and a pinch of salt.


In a small bowl, whisk the lime juice, honey, lime zest, 1/4 tsp. salt, a few grinds of black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. Gradually whisk in the grapeseed oil.


Toss the dressing with the vegetables. Fold in the feta and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Pan-Seared Skirt Steak with Warm Radish and Red Onion Pickle

The quick vegetable pickle is a bright, tangy complement to marinated steak. If there’s any left over, try it on a turkey sandwich.

For the steak:

• 
  
  2 lb. skirt steak
  
  


• 
  
  1/2 cup plus 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  
  


• 
  
  1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. Dijon mustard
  
  


• 
  
  2 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
  
  


• 
  
  2 tsp. honey
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
  
  


• 
  
  4 medium cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  
  

For the pickle:

• 
  
  1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  
  


• 
  
  3 Tbs. apple cider vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. honey
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. sherry vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. ground coriander
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  
  


• 
  
  1 bunch red radishes (8 or 9), halved and thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  1 small red onion, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise
  
  


• 
  
  1 small jalapeño, seeded and thinly sliced
  
  

Marinate the steak: Trim any large patches of fat from the surface. If necessary, cut the steak crosswise into pieces 8 to 10 inches long. In a 9x13-inch baking dish (or similar), whisk 1/2 cup of the oil, the lemon juice, mustard, lemon zest, honey, pepper flakes, garlic, 1-1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Arrange the steak in the dish and turn to coat with the marinade. Cover with plastic and refrigerate for at least 2 hours but preferably overnight.

Make the pickle: In a medium saucepan, stir together the oil, cider vinegar, honey, sherry vinegar, coriander, 1-1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Add the radishes, carrot, onion, and jalapeño and toss gently to coat. Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are wilted and the radishes are no longer crunchy but are still firm, 4 to 5 minutes. Give it one final stir and remove from the heat. Set aside, uncovered, while you cook the steak.

Cook the steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Season on both sides with 1/2 tsp. salt and a few grinds of pepper. Heat 1 Tbs. of the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the steak to the hot skillet in a single layer and cook, flipping once, until deeply browned on both sides and cooked to your liking—medium rare will take 5 to 7 minutes total. Transfer the steak to a carving board and set aside. Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel, heat the remaining 1 Tbs. oil, and cook the remaining steak as above.

Let the steaks rest for at least 5 minutes; then slice thinly across the grain and transfer to a large platter. Pour any accumulated juices over the steaks, top with the warm radish pickle, and serve.

Jícama, Radish, and Pickled Shallot Salad with Feta

Bright, zesty, and refreshing, this crunchy salad can be served over tacos, alongside black beans and rice, or eaten all on its own.

• 
  
  2 small shallots, cut in half crosswise and then thinly sliced lengthwise
  
  


• 
  
  3 Tbs. red wine vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  5 medium radishes, trimmed, quartered lengthwise and then cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices
  
  


• 
  
  1 medium jícama (about 1 lb), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice
  
  


• 
  
  1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus 1 Tbs. cilantro leaves
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. fresh lime juice
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. honey
  
  


• 
  
  1/4 tsp. finely grated lime zest
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly ground black pepper
  
  


• 
  
  Pinch of cayenne
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. grapeseed oil
  
  


• 
  
  1/2 cup crumbled feta
  
  

In a small bowl, combine the shallots with the red wine vinegar and 1/4 tsp. salt; let sit until the shallots have mellowed and turned a light pink, about 15 minutes. Strain the shallots and discard the liquid.


In a medium bowl, toss the shallots, radishes, jícama, cilantro, and a pinch of salt.


In a small bowl, whisk the lime juice, honey, lime zest, 1/4 tsp. salt, a few grinds of black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. Gradually whisk in the grapeseed oil.


Toss the dressing with the vegetables. Fold in the feta and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Shaved Watermelon Radish and Asparagus Salad with Castelvetrano Olives and Gouda

This salad is a beautiful mosaic of complementary textures and fresh spring flavors. Look for magenta-centered watermelon radishes at farmers’ markets. If you can’t track them down, substitute another radish variety. Castelvetranos are big, buttery, bright green olives that are found at most specialty markets. White balsamic vinegar adds sweet acidity without the dark color of regular balsamic, allowing the vibrant colors of this dish to shine.

• 
  
  60 medium-large asparagus spears, ends trimmed or snapped away
  
  


• 
  
  2 cups Castelvetrano olives
  
  


• 
  
  Good-quality extra-virgin olive oil for dressing
  
  


• 
  
  White balsamic vinegar for dressing
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly cracked pepper
  
  


• 
  
  4 medium watermelon radishes, trimmed
  
  


• 
  
  5 oz. Gouda or other semifirm cheese
  
  

Have ready a steamer rack and a pan of simmering water. Fill a large bowl with ice water and place near the stove. Line a platter with a double thickness of paper towels and place near the ice water. Working in batches, arrange about one-third of the asparagus on the steamer rack and place the rack over the water, making sure the water is 1 inch or so below the rack. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and steam the asparagus until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Using tongs, immediately transfer the asparagus to the bowl of ice water. Let cool for a few minutes and then transfer the asparagus to the towel-lined platter and blot dry. Repeat with the remaining asparagus, steaming and cooling them in two batches.

Using a sharp paring knife, slice each asparagus spear in half lengthwise, or in thirds if the spears are particularly thick. Set aside.

Pit the olives by crushing them with the side of a chef’s knife or other
hard, flat object. Work the pits out with your fingers and discard.
Place the olives back into the olive juice (to keep their bright green
color) and refrigerate until needed.

Place the asparagus in a bowl
and toss with just enough olive oil to coat without leaving a puddle at
the bottom of the bowl. Drizzle with a splash of vinegar, season with
salt and pepper, and then gently toss again. Arrange the asparagus on a
platter or divide among individual salad plates.

Using a mandoline set on the narrowest setting, shave the radishes into rounds and place in a bowl. Toss the radish slices with just enough olive oil to coat, add a splash of vinegar, and then season with salt and pepper and toss again. Spread the radish slices across the center of the plated asparagus. Drain the olives and scatter them around the platter or plates. Using a vegetable peeler, shave thin slices of the cheese over the top. Garnish with pepper and serve immediately.

Pan-Seared Skirt Steak with Warm Radish and Red Onion Pickle

The quick vegetable pickle is a bright, tangy complement to marinated steak. If there’s any left over, try it on a turkey sandwich.

For the steak:

• 
  
  2 lb. skirt steak
  
  


• 
  
  1/2 cup plus 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  
  


• 
  
  1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. Dijon mustard
  
  


• 
  
  2 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
  
  


• 
  
  2 tsp. honey
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
  
  


• 
  
  4 medium cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  
  

For the pickle:

• 
  
  1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  
  


• 
  
  3 Tbs. apple cider vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. honey
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. sherry vinegar
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. ground coriander
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  
  


• 
  
  1 bunch red radishes (8 or 9), halved and thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  1 small red onion, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise
  
  


• 
  
  1 small jalapeño, seeded and thinly sliced
  
  

Marinate the steak: Trim any large patches of fat from the surface. If necessary, cut the steak crosswise into pieces 8 to 10 inches long. In a 9x13-inch baking dish (or similar), whisk 1/2 cup of the oil, the lemon juice, mustard, lemon zest, honey, pepper flakes, garlic, 1-1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Arrange the steak in the dish and turn to coat with the marinade. Cover with plastic and refrigerate for at least 2 hours but preferably overnight.

Make the pickle: In a medium saucepan, stir together the oil, cider vinegar, honey, sherry vinegar, coriander, 1-1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/4 tsp. pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Add the radishes, carrot, onion, and jalapeño and toss gently to coat. Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are wilted and the radishes are no longer crunchy but are still firm, 4 to 5 minutes. Give it one final stir and remove from the heat. Set aside, uncovered, while you cook the steak.

Cook the steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Season on both sides with 1/2 tsp. salt and a few grinds of pepper. Heat 1 Tbs. of the remaining oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the steak to the hot skillet in a single layer and cook, flipping once, until deeply browned on both sides and cooked to your liking—medium rare will take 5 to 7 minutes total. Transfer the steak to a carving board and set aside. Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel, heat the remaining 1 Tbs. oil, and cook the remaining steak as above.

Let the steaks rest for at least 5 minutes; then slice thinly across the grain and transfer to a large platter. Pour any accumulated juices over the steaks, top with the warm radish pickle, and serve.

Garden Lettuce Salad with Skirt Steak, Avocado & Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

This recipe is just a simple garden lettuce salad, but the avocado, toasted pumpkin seeds, and skirt steak make it much more satisfying. A mandoline works especially well to quickly, easily, and evenly slice the carrots and radishes.

• 
  
  1 clove garlic, pounded to a smooth paste with a pinch of salt
  
  


• 
  
  2 Tbs. freshly squeezed lime juice; more as needed
  
  


• 
  
  1 Tbs. red-wine vinegar; more as needed
  
  


• 
  
  1 tsp. cumin seed, toasted and lightly ground (so still a little coarse)
  
  


• 
  
  1⁄2 tsp. sweet paprika
  
  


• 
  
  Kosher salt
  
  


• 
  
  9 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil
  
  


• 
  
  1 shallot, thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  1⁄2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  
  


• 
  
  One 1-1⁄4-lb. skirt steak, cold
  
  


• 
  
  Freshly ground black pepper
  
  


• 
  
  2 ripe avocados
  
  


• 
  
  4 large handfuls assorted mild garden lettuces, about 8 ounces total, washed and dried
  
  


• 
  
  2 medium-size carrots, very thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  3 radishes, such as French breakfast, very thinly sliced
  
  


• 
  
  Aleppo pepper, for sprinkling (optional)
  
  

To make the vinaigrette, combine the garlic, lime juice, vinegar, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Whisk in 6 Tbs. of the olive oil. Taste with a leaf of lettuce and adjust the vinaigrette with more lime juice, vinegar, or salt if necessary. Set aside.

Put the shallot in a small bowl and cover with ice water. (The ice water crisps the shallot and helps remove some its hot and gassy flavor.) Set aside.

Warm a small sauté pan over medium heat and add 1 Tbs. of the olive oil and the pumpkin seeds. Fry the seeds, tossing or stirring frequently, until golden, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel and season with salt.

Cut the skirt steak into about 6-inch lengths and return it to the refrigerator until shortly before you are ready to cook it. (Because skirt steak is so thin, you want the beef cold to prevent it from overcooking before it browns.) Season the beef with salt and coarsely ground black pepper. Warm a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until very hot.

Add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and place the beef in the pan without overlapping the strips. Cook until the beef is nicely browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn and cook on the opposite side until medium rare, 1 to 2 minutes more; time will vary depending on the thickness of the meat. (If necessary, reduce the heat to medium high to finish cooking thicker sections of the meat.) Transfer to a plate and let rest for about 5 minutes.

Cut the avocados in half lengthwise, remove the pits, and slice the flesh diagonally into about 1⁄4-inch slices. Set aside.

Drain the shallot. Put the salad greens in a large work bowl; sprinkle the shallot, carrots, and radishes on top and season with salt and pepper. Gently toss the salad with just enough vinaigrette to lightly coat the greens. Taste and add more salt if necessary. Add about half of the pumpkins seeds and toss once more. With a delicate hand, transfer the salad to a platter or individual serving plates, evenly distributing the seeds, carrots, and radishes that may have fallen to the bottom of the bowl. Then, using a large spoon and starting at the very edge of the avocado (where skin meets flesh), scoop the flesh out of the avocado in one swoop. Separate the avocado slices and tuck them here and there among the greens. (At this point, I like to season the avocado, as best I can, with salt.) Thinly slice the meat against the grain. Arrange the skirt steak on the side or in the salad. Drizzle any remaining vinaigrette on and around the salad, focusing on the avocado and beef. Sprinkle the Aleppo pepper (if using) and the remaining pumpkin seeds on top. Serve immediately.