Escape the summer heat with this vibrant and refreshing Mexican Watermelon Salad! This isn't your average fruit salad; it's a fiesta of flavors, combining the sweet juiciness of watermelon with the spicy kick of jalapeño, the tang of lime, and the satisfying crunch of red onion and cilantro. Imagine the perfect balance of sweet and savory, cool and spicy, all in one delightful bite. This simple yet elegant salad is perfect as a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a refreshing palate cleanser after a spicy meal. It's also incredibly adaptable; feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible burst of fresh flavors. From the preparation of the ingredients to the final flourish, this salad comes together quickly and easily. Ready to discover the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this sensational Mexican Watermelon Salad together.
Tools Needed
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Red Onion: 1/2
- Cucumber: 1 (hot house or English preferred)
- Watermelon: 1/4 of a large watermelon
- Cilantro
- Jalapeno: 1
- Lime
- Honey: 1 tablespoon (or to taste)
- Feta Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs
- Finely dice the red onion.
- Cut the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the diced red onion and cucumber.
- Cut the watermelon into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the cilantro leaves.
- Remove seeds and ribs from the jalapeno and finely dice.
Step 2. Combine Ingredients
- Combine the watermelon, cucumber, red onion, and jalapeno.
Step 3. Add Dressing and Cheese
- Juice the limes.
- Add lime juice and honey.
- Stir in feta cheese.
Step 4. Taste and Adjust
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Read more: Easy Mexican Macaroni Salad Recipe (Cold Salad)
Tips
- Use hot house or English cucumbers for a milder flavor; regular cucumbers are fine too.
- Remove jalapeno seeds and ribs for less heat.
- Don't over-chop the cilantro to preserve its oils.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 4g
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients (except the watermelon) a few hours ahead. Add the watermelon just before serving to prevent it from getting watery.
2. What can I substitute for jalapeño if I don't like spicy food?
You can omit the jalapeño entirely, or use a milder pepper like a poblano, or even a small amount of a sweet pepper for a touch of color and sweetness.
This refreshing Mexican Watermelon Salad is the perfect embodiment of summer's bounty, offering a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Enjoy this easy-to-make recipe as a light meal, a refreshing side dish, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering. So go ahead, embrace the vibrant flavors of Mexico and cool down with this incredibly satisfying salad!