Click to rate this post!
[Total: 3 Average: 5]
Spicy Watermelon Salad
Spicy Watermelon Salad is a delightful fusion of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that’s perfect for summer. Juicy watermelon cubes are tossed with a squeeze of fresh lime, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a medley of fresh herbs, creating a refreshing salad that’s as bold as it is beautiful. This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you're looking to spice up your usual watermelon snack or impress guests at your next gathering, this salad is a must-try.
Equipment
- Cutting Board.
- Chef’s Knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Juicer or Citrus Reamer
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Serving Platter or Bowl
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 6 cups seedless watermelon cubed (about half a large watermelon)
- 1 cucumber thinly sliced
- ½ red onion thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese optional, for added creaminess
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
Dressing Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice about 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, for added sweetness
- 1 teaspoon chili powder adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra spice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish (Optional)
- Lime wedges
- Extra mint and cilantro leaves
- Sprinkle of chili powder
Instructions
Prepare the Watermelon
- Cut the Watermelon: Start by cutting the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Place the watermelon on a cutting board, and using a sharp chef’s knife, slice off the ends. Stand the watermelon on one of the flat ends and carefully cut away the rind. Once peeled, cut the watermelon into thick slices, then into cubes.
- Drain Excess Juice: If the watermelon is particularly juicy, you may want to drain off some of the excess juice before adding it to the salad. This helps prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
Prepare the Other Ingredients
- Slice the Cucumber and Red Onion: Thinly slice the cucumber and red onion. The cucumber adds a crisp texture, while the red onion offers a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the watermelon.
- Chop the Herbs: Roughly chop the fresh mint and cilantro leaves. These herbs provide a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the watermelon and the heat from the chili.
- Slice the Jalapeño: Thinly slice the jalapeño pepper. If you prefer a milder salad, remove the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño before slicing.
Make the Dressing
- Mix the Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. The lime juice adds a zesty tang, while the chili powder and cayenne bring the heat.
- Taste and Adjust: Before adding the dressing to the salad, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or cayenne. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more honey.
Assemble the Salad
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, cucumber slices, red onion, mint, cilantro, and jalapeño slices. Toss gently to mix the ingredients without bruising the watermelon.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. The dressing should enhance the natural sweetness of the watermelon while adding a kick of spice.
- Add the Feta: If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the salad. The creamy, salty flavor of the feta complements the sweetness of the watermelon and the spice from the dressing.
Serve and Garnish
- Plate the Salad: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with extra mint and cilantro leaves for a burst of color.
- Optional Garnishes: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of lime juice, and sprinkle a little extra chili powder on top for a final kick of spice.
- Enjoy: Serve the Spicy Watermelon Salad immediately while it’s fresh and chilled. It’s best enjoyed as a side dish at a barbecue, a refreshing starter, or even a light snack on a hot day.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Spicy Watermelon Salad
- Use Fresh, Seedless Watermelon: Choose a ripe, seedless watermelon for the best flavor and texture. Seedless watermelons make the preparation easier and provide a more enjoyable eating experience.
- Adjust the Spice Level: This salad is highly customizable. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the cayenne pepper. For those who love a fiery kick, add more jalapeño or use a hotter pepper like serrano.
- Serve Immediately: Watermelon tends to release water as it sits, so this salad is best served immediately after preparation. If you need to make it ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss it with the salad just before serving.
- Try Different Herbs: While mint and cilantro are traditional, you can experiment with other herbs like basil or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Add Crunch with Nuts: For an added texture contrast, sprinkle some toasted nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, over the salad just before serving.