Crisp Endive and Radish Salad with Bitter Orange Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A refreshing salad featuring the natural bitterness of endive and radishes, brightened by a tangy dressing made with fresh bitter orange juice and honey. This mediterranean-inspired salads (vegetarian) ready in about 15 minutes blends heads, leaves separated Belgian endive, medium, thinly sliced radishes, bitter orange juice into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 140 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 140 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Rinse and separate the leaves of 3 heads Belgian endive into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice 6 medium radishes.
  2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup bitter orange juice, 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until fully emulsified.
  3. Step 3: In a large salad bowl, combine the endive leaves and radish slices. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until all leaves are coated and slightly glossy.
  4. Step 4: Sprinkle 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds and 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint leaves over the top for a crunchy, aromatic finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp texture and pronounced bitter-citrus flavor contrast.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Crisp Endive and Radish Salad with Bitter Orange Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 15 minutes (15 min prep + 0 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Crisp Endive and Radish Salad with Bitter Orange Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Crisp Endive and Radish Salad with Bitter Orange Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Crisp Endive and Radish Salad with Bitter Orange Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Crisp Endive and Radish Salad with Bitter Orange Dressing vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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