CHILLED WATERMELON & MINT SALAD
Chilled Watermelon & Mint Salad is a simple yet flavourful dish that combines the juicy sweetness of watermelon with the refreshing aroma of fresh mint and a hint of lime. This hydrating and cooling salad is perfect for hot days, providing a burst of natural sweetness with a crisp and energizing finish. Watermelon is packed with antioxidants and hydration, making this dish a fantastic way to stay refreshed and nourished. This easy, uncooked salad takes just minutes to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for quick meals, summer picnics or elegant appetizers. The combination of watermelon’s natural sugars with the zesty brightness of lime and the herbal freshness of mint creates a well-balanced, palate-cleansing dish. Whether enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, this salad is a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy fresh ingredients at their best.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Appetiser, Snack, Side
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Caribbean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, 5 Ingredients or Less
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Summer, Picnic, BBQ, Brunch, Cocktail Party, Healthy Eating
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low Sugar, High Fibre, Quick & Easy, Hydrating
DISH TYPE
Salad, Side Dish, Refreshing Appetiser
INGREDIENTS
- 50g watermelon, cubed
- 5 fresh mint leaves, torn
- ½ tsp lime juice
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 15 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein:3g
- Fats:1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Fibre:3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Watermelon: Cut fresh watermelon into small cubes, ensuring they are seedless for a smooth texture. If using a whole watermelon, remove the rind and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Chill The Watermelon: For the best experience, place the watermelon cubes in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before assembling the salad. Chilling enhances the natural sweetness and makes the dish extra refreshing.
- Add Fresh Mint: Tear the mint leaves into smaller pieces and gently toss them with the watermelon cubes. The mint should be fresh and fragrant for optimal flavour.
- Drizzle With Lime Juice: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad, ensuring even distribution. The acidity of the lime enhances the watermelon’s sweetness and adds a bright, citrusy kick.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy this salad chilled, either as a refreshing appetizer, a side dish or a light snack. Garnish with additional mint leaves for extra presentation appeal.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
None
TIPS
- Choose A Ripe Watermelon: A perfectly ripe watermelon has a deep red interior, a hollow sound when tapped, and a uniform shape with a yellow spot on the rind where it ripened on the ground.
- Chill Before Serving: Keeping the watermelon cold before assembling the salad enhances its refreshing qualities and makes it more enjoyable.
- Use Fresh Mint: Fresh mint leaves provide the best flavour; dried mint is not recommended for this dish.
- Enhance The Flavour: Add a pinch of sea salt to intensify the natural sweetness of the watermelon.
- Balance Acidity: If you prefer a more tangy taste, increase the lime juice slightly.
VARIATIONS
- Watermelon & Feta Salad: Add crumbled feta cheese for a salty contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the watermelon.
- Spicy Watermelon Salad: Sprinkle with a pinch of chilli flakes or Tajín seasoning for a unique sweet-spicy flavour.
- Cucumber-Watermelon Fusion: Mix in thinly sliced cucumber for extra hydration and a satisfying crunch.
- Nutty Watermelon Salad: Sprinkle chopped pistachios, almonds or sunflower seeds over the salad for a delightful crunch.
- Tropical Watermelon Salad: Add mango or pineapple chunks for an exotic flavour boost.
- Balsamic Drizzle: For a gourmet touch, drizzle aged balsamic vinegar or balsamic reduction over the salad.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The watermelon will release juices over time, so it is best enjoyed fresh.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as watermelon loses its texture when frozen and thawed.
- Meal Prep Friendly: If preparing in advance, keep the mint and lime juice separate from the watermelon until ready to serve, which maintains freshness.