A Springtime Snack with Butter and Radishes
In spring, when radishes are sweet, crisp, and fresh from the garden, we only think of one thing to pair them with: butter and salt. We grew up eating fresh radish sandwiches as a snack—flavorful sourdough bread slathered in butter, layered with red radishes, and topped with a sprinkle of salt.
Our spring has been mild, but overnight temperatures kept our soil cold. We planted our cold-season garden vegetables, radishes, peas, carrots, onions, beets and lettuce in early April. Cold season crops can handle frosty mornings, and it took about two weeks for everything to germinate. Growth had been slow until these last two weeks, when the soil temperatures warmed up, and the plants really took off.
This week, we harvested our first batch of radishes and they are so sweet and crisp! We have a second succession of radishes that will be ready in about two more weeks. Planting radishes when the nights are cool is the key to keeping them sweet and avoiding a sharp and spicy flavor.
While we love a radish sandwich, we wanted to turn this classic pairing into a shareable spread. This version is creamy, colorful, and sure to get people talking at your next cookout.
What Is Radish Butter?
This flavorful spread is made by blending finely chopped radishes with rich, European-style butter. The peppery bite of radishes contrasts beautifully with the smooth sweetness of Royal Guernsey Creamery butter, and a pinch of salt plus a garnish of herbs rounds it out.
The French Roots of Radishes and Butter
Inspired by traditional French appetizers, where radishes are simply served with butter
and salt, this twist turns that timeless combination into something ready for bread, crackers, or veggies. It’s a classic idea reimagined for today’s table—and a new favorite in our radish recipe collection.
Tips for the Best Flavor
Chop and Dry the Radishes
Use a food processor to chop the radishes finely—about 10 pulses does the trick. To avoid excess moisture, spread them between paper towels and let them sit for about 10 minutes.
Start with Softened Butter
Soft, not melted, works best. Royal Guernsey Creamery butter adds the creamy texture and sweetness that make this spread shine.
Add a Bright Garnish
Top with thinly sliced chives or green onion tops. Using herbs in season with your radishes gives you a perfect pairing with a flavorful finish.
Want Extra Kick? Add Horseradish
A little horseradish goes a long way if you want something with a bold edge.
How to Serve
This spread is versatile. Try it:
- Slathered on crusty sourdough or toasted baguette
- As a flavorful addition to a crudité platter with carrots, celery, and cucumbers
- Alongside spring appetizers or as a picnic snack
Easy Radish Butter Recipe
Ingredients
3 ounces radishes, trimmed
2 tablespoons Royal Guernsey Creamery butter, softened
⅛ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon chives, sliced thin
Horseradish, optional
Flaky sea salt, optional
Directions
- Quarter the radishes and place them in a small food processor. Pulse until finely chopped, scraping the sides as needed.
- Spread the radishes over three layers of paper towels. Press with another three layers to remove moisture. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the butter, salt, and radishes until well combined.
- Adjust salt to taste. For added heat, stir in ½ to 1 teaspoon of horseradish.
- Garnish with chives and flaky sea salt.
Serve with: crusty bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks.
