Spicy Watermelon Cilantro Salad (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Base Salad
01 -
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, loosely packed
02 -
1/2 jalapeño, finely diced or thinly sliced (use more or less depending on your spice tolerance)
03 -
1 small watermelon (or 1/4 of a large one), sliced into bite-sized chunks or wedges
→ Tangy Dressing
04 -
2 tablespoons high-quality olive oil
05 -
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (1-2 limes worth)
06 -
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
07 -
1/2 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
08 -
2 teaspoons honey
→ Toppings
09 -
A sprinkle of flaky sea salt
10 -
Extra cilantro leaves for garnish
11 -
More red pepper flakes if you want added heat
# Instructions:
01 -
Grab your watermelon and cut it up! Make either bite-sized cubes for easy spooning or triangular wedges for a fun hands-on snack. Both styles work, so it depends on how you're planning to serve it.
02 -
In a small bowl, combine freshly squeezed lime juice, olive oil, honey, and kosher salt, stirring well. Add those red pepper flakes for a bold kick if you'd like. Mix it all up until the honey disappears and everything blends smoothly.
03 -
Add your sliced jalapeño and the fresh cilantro to the dressing. If you're looking to lower the heat, take out the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño first. Stir everything together so the flavors fill every bite.
04 -
Lay the watermelon wedges neatly on a large platter or put the cubed pieces in a bowl. Next, pour the citrusy dressing over the watermelon, being sure to spread out the jalapeños and cilantro for even flavor. If you're using cubes, gently stir to coat everything without smashing the fruit.
05 -
Before serving, sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top for that satisfying crunch. Add more red pepper flakes for a zing of spice and toss on a few extra cilantro leaves to brighten the look. Each bite is sweet, spicy, tangy, and salty all at once.
06 -
This dish tastes best right after it's made, so don't wait too long to serve it! The mix of cool melon and zesty, spicy dressing makes it the ultimate refreshing snack for hot days.
# Notes:
01 -
Enjoy this dish fresh! If you leave it too long, the watermelon will get watery and soft because of the lime juice. To prep early, store the dressing and fruit separately in the fridge and mix them right before serving.
02 -
Going vegan? Replace the honey with agave nectar or maple syrup. If you're following Whole30, skip the honey or replace it with date syrup that works with your plan.
03 -
Tailor the spiciness! Mild folks can take out the seeds and ribs from the jalapeño, while spice lovers can keep them or even use a whole pepper.