Low Iodine Smoky Paprika Watercress and Cucumber Salad
Peppery watercress, cool cucumber rounds, and paper-thin radishes come together in a salad that feels fresh and a little bold all at once. The real star is the smoky, warmly spiced dressing — smoked paprika and cumin whisked into olive oil and bright lemon juice give every bite a depth that most salads simply don't have. A touch of raw honey rounds out the heat without making things sweet, and a pinch of cayenne keeps it lively if you want that extra kick. Toasted pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch and a nutty richness that makes this feel like a complete dish rather than a side thought. Managing iodine intake often means scrutinizing packaged dressings and seasoning blends for hidden additives, but here everything is made from scratch with whole, straightforward ingredients — no surprises. The sea salt is used in a small, controlled amount, and every other component is naturally low in iodine, so you can dress and toss with confidence. Serve it immediately after adding the seeds so they stay crisp and the greens hold their gorgeous, vibrant color.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the salad
- ¼ cup raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- 5 oz watercress, thick stems removed
- 1 english cucumber, thinly sliced into rounds
- 3 radishes, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
For the dressing
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp raw honey
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
Chef's tipFine sea salt and table salt measure the same - no conversion needed. - ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the pumpkin seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until they begin to pop and turn golden, about 2–3 minutes. Watch closely, as they can brown quickly. Transfer to a small plate and set aside.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, honey, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) until the dressing is smooth and uniform in color.
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