Spicy Watermelon Jalapeño Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Watermelon Jalapeño Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish with a kick. The sweetness of the watermelon is balanced by the heat from the jalapeño and the earthiness of the grilled corn. The fresh herbs elevate the flavors, and the lime dressing adds a tangy zest that ties everything together. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures—crunchy, juicy, spicy, and herby—all in one bite. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it an ideal option for a summer cookout, BBQ, or picnic.

Ingredients

• 1 ear of corn, husked
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, or avocado oil
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 1 large jalapeño pepper, de-seeded and finely chopped (leave the seeds in for more heat)
• ½ cup mixed finely chopped herbs, such as cilantro, scallions, or mint
• Salt and black pepper
• 1 pound watermelon, cut into bite-sized chunks to yield 1 ½ to 2 cups fruit

For serving:

• ¼ cup corn nuts, optional
• Chili powder, optional, for more heat

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Grill the Corn: Heat the neutral oil in a skillet or on a grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the husked ear of corn and cook for 5–7 minutes, rotating occasionally, until it is nicely charred and cooked through. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Salad Base: While the corn is cooling, cut the watermelon into bite-sized chunks and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Chop the Corn: Once the corn is cool enough to handle, use a knife to slice off the kernels and add them to the bowl with the watermelon.
4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil (or avocado oil), lime zest, lime juice, finely chopped jalapeño, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the watermelon and corn mixture. Add the chopped herbs and toss gently to combine everything evenly.
6. Serve: Garnish the salad with optional corn nuts and a sprinkle of chili powder if desired for extra heat and crunch. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• More Heat: For an extra kick, leave the seeds of the jalapeño in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Vegan Cheese: Add crumbled vegan cheese or feta for a tangy contrast.
• Add Fruit: Try adding additional fruits like cucumber, mango, or pineapple for extra sweetness and variety.
• Grilled Veggies: You can also add grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers or red onions, for a more substantial salad.

Storage/Reheating

This Spicy Watermelon Jalapeño Salad is best served fresh. The watermelon will release water as it sits, which can make the salad soggy. If you need to store leftovers, keep the dressing and the salad separate and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 1 day.

Reheating is not recommended, as the watermelon will lose its crisp texture and freshness when warmed.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the watermelon fresh and crunchy. However, you can prepare the corn and chop the watermelon and herbs ahead of time, then toss everything together right before serving.

What can I use instead of corn?

If you don’t have corn or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even jicama.

Can I add more spice to this salad?

Yes, you can increase the heat by adding more jalapeños or chili powder. You could also try adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a finely chopped serrano pepper.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Can I substitute the watermelon for another fruit?

Yes! If you don’t have watermelon, you can substitute it with other juicy fruits like cantaloupe, honeydew, or pineapple for a different flavor profile.

What kind of herbs should I use?

Fresh cilantro, scallions, and mint all work beautifully in this salad. Feel free to use whatever herbs you have on hand or prefer—basil would also add a nice touch.

Can I add nuts to this salad?

Yes! Adding crunchy toppings like roasted peanuts, almonds, or cashews would give the salad an extra texture. You could also use roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

How do I keep the salad from becoming soggy?

To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, make sure to serve it right after tossing and avoid letting it sit too long in the dressing. Keep the watermelon and dressing separate until right before serving for the best texture.

How spicy is this salad?

The spiciness of the salad depends on how much jalapeño you use and whether you leave the seeds in. If you want it mild, remove all the seeds from the jalapeño. For more heat, leave them in or add an additional spicy pepper.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, adding a sprinkle of feta, goat cheese, or even a creamy vegan cheese would be a great addition to balance the heat and enhance the flavors.

Conclusion

Spicy Watermelon Jalapeño Salad is a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The juicy watermelon pairs perfectly with the heat of the jalapeño and the zesty lime, while the corn and fresh herbs add texture and freshness. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer dish or a unique side to your main course, this salad will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy it at your next barbecue, picnic, or dinner party!

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