Although we are into spring for the last week or so, it has still been quite cold in Ontario. It is almost as if the weatherman’s memo did not reach whoever it had to. We have been dawdling with the change with no glimmer of warm sunny days in sight. This time last spring, we had stowed away all our winter gear and were busting out the shorts.  Patios were teaming with people sipping heady concoction and eating all sorts of mouthwatering food that spring had to offer.

Every year I look forward to start off spring. The sudden change in vibe amazed me in my FOB (Fresh off the Boat) years in Toronto. A spring date was picked and like a beautifully synchronized orchestra, the sun would shine benevolently, birds would chirp, trees that had been barren through the dread of cold would begin to sprout greens, grocery stores stock a new selection of veggies and fruits, menus in restaurants would be updated, racing season would begin.  Even after 4 years, this rather dramatic overhaul in weather still excites me.
This year however, it has been a tad bit disappointing with the delayed start we are experiencing. At these uncertain times of varying temperatures, I have been looking for something fresh and bright but also warm and soothing. This apple radish salad with a ginger lime dressing offered me that balance. The crisp apple, peppery notes of the radish is offset by the freshness of the lime and warmth of the ginger. It makes a nice slaw or it can be used as toppings for burgers or tacos.

Apple Radish Salad with a Ginger Lime dressing

Serves 2-3

• A small bunch of radish sliced thinly into strips (I used 4 large sized ones)
• 1 apple sliced thinly into strips (granny smith would be the best, I used honey crisp at the time when I was photographing it)
• Handful of cilantro or parsley chopped
• 1 green chilly (optional)
• 1 spring onion finely chopped (The salad is perfectly fine without it, but I used in some other versions and loved it)
• ½ inch ginger grated
• Juice of one lime
• 1-teaspoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Assemble the Salad

In a bowl mix the thinly sliced apple, radish, cilantro, green chilly and spring onion

Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, ginger salt and pepper

Pour in the dressing over the apple radish mixture when you are about to serve