Tomato-Watermelon Salad
A vibrant, refreshing salad combining sweet watermelon, tangy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and spicy jalapenos, perfect for summer gatherings and light, flavorful dining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the rind from the watermelon and discard.
- Cut the watermelon into 1-inch cubes (about 12 cups).
- Cut each tomato into 8 wedges.
- Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, then crosswise into 1/2-inch slices.
- In a large serving bowl, combine the watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, jalapeno chiles, lime juice, and cilantro; toss well.
- Refrigerate the salad; it can be prepared a day ahead.
- Before serving, toss with salt if desired, and drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using heirloom tomatoes for a vibrant color and taste contrast. If you prefer a milder salad, you can substitute the jalapenos with bell peppers. Fresh mint could also be an excellent addition alongside cilantro for a refreshing twist. For a heartier salad, try incorporating some crumbled feta or grilled shrimp, which can complement the sweetness of the watermelon.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato-Watermelon Salad is a perfect light appetizer or side dish for summer barbecues. Pair it with grilled meats or seafood for a refreshing contrast. It also goes well with dishes like *Pita Venita* or *Maria'S Pizza Bread(By Special Request From Friends Who Have Eaten It)*. Serve it chilled for the best experience, and consider adding some sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can re-toss it gently to mix the flavors. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the watermelon and tomatoes can become mushy when thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato-Watermelon Salad contains roughly 230 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 883mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day ahead. Just combine the ingredients and refrigerate. However, wait to add salt and olive oil until just before serving to maintain the texture of the watermelon and tomatoes.
What can I use instead of lime juice?
If you don't have lime juice, lemon juice is a great substitute and will still provide a nice acidity. You could also use apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile, but adjust the quantity to taste.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, this Tomato-Watermelon Salad is entirely vegan-friendly! It relies on fresh vegetables and herbs, making it a great choice for plant-based diets. Just ensure any added ingredients, like feta, are also vegan if you choose to include them.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).