Il Gatto's ravanelli: 100 Favorite Dishes, No. 53

In the plain white dish

​Despite it's vibrant magenta coat, the radish usually plays the role of supporting garnish or salad accoutrement. Not so at Il Gatto, where the ravanelli makes the taproot of the Raphanus sativus a star, putting it front and center in this simple, yet addicting dish. Served on plain white with a modicum of fanfare, it's is a sly little side that can easily escape your notice.

Here's why you shouldn't let that happen...

Ravanelli means radishes in Italian, and the other components involved in this plate respect that fact. Mixed with orange zest and the all-important anchovy vinaigrette (don't make that face about the tasty fish), the radishes glisten with pride.

Making unlikely foods sexy

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But, of course, looks aren't everything. The peppery radishes soak in the citrus oil and anchovy flavor, creating a perfect melange of flavors. Be sure to sop up the extra liquid with the quartered radishes, and because it's healthy and inexpensive ($3 at happy hour/$5 on the regular menu) you won't suffer a lick of guilt, even if you must get a second helping.

Starring: beautiful, delicious radishes

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