As we prepare for back to school season, we try to get in as much summer as we can! We plan last minute pool parties and trips to the beach before the hectic school life begins. We make sure to indulge in summertime foods while we can. I just made the most delicious Cumber Watermelon Salad that you just have to try- perfect for the last days of summer. I got the recipe from Kim Severson of the New York Times and just made a few small changes. This summer salad is both light and flavorful. I first saw this on Pinterest looking for a light dish to take with me to a pool party. I am so glad I gave it a try and everyone was a fan.
Easy Watermelon And Cucumber Salad
Here are 5 reasons that Watermelon Cucumber Salad is a perfect summer recipe.
1. Refreshing Ingredients:
- Watermelon: High water content (about 92%) makes it incredibly hydrating and cooling, perfect for hot summer days.
- Cucumber: Also high in water content and known for its refreshing, crisp texture.
2. Nutritional Benefits:
- Hydration: Both watermelon and cucumber help keep you hydrated.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Watermelon is rich in vitamins A, B6, and C, while cucumber provides vitamins K and C.
- Low in Calories: Both ingredients are low in calories, making it a light, healthy option.
3. Easy to Prepare:
- Minimal Ingredients: You typically only need a few ingredients: watermelon, cucumber, a bit of mint, lime juice, and maybe some feta cheese.
- Quick Assembly: No cooking required; just chop and mix.
4. Versatile Flavors:
- Sweet and Savory: The sweetness of the watermelon pairs beautifully with the crispness of the cucumber. Adding a bit of feta cheese or a balsamic reduction can enhance the flavor profile with a savory touch.
- Herbs and Citrus: Fresh mint or basil adds a burst of flavor, while lime or lemon juice provides a zesty finish.
5. Aesthetic Appeal:
- Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of red watermelon, green cucumber, and any added herbs make the salad visually appealing.
- Festive Look: It’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, and barbecues, adding a bright and cheerful dish to the table.
Simple Ingredients:
- 3 cups of crsip cucumbers, cut into ½ inch cubes (English cucumber or Persian cucumbers have less seeds)
- 4 cups of watermelon, cut in 1 inch cubes (Kitchn shows you how to cut a watermelon into cubes)
- 3 ½ Tablespoons of fresh lime juice (I bought the pre-squeezed kind)
- 3 Tablespoons of hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons of seeded and finely diced jalapeno
- ½ teaspoon of sea salt
- 1/3 cup of chopped flat-leaf parsley (fresh herbs contrast so nicely with the sweet watermelon)
- Black pepper (to your taste)
How To Make Cucumber Watermelon Salad:
Cut your watermelon and cucumbers into cubes.
Place the cucumber and watermelon into a large bowl with a strainer over it. This allows any of the juice from the watermelon to drip into the bowl.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours.
When it is done refrigerating, put the cucumbers and watermelon into a serving dish.
In a separate bowl, whisk the: lime juice, hoisin sauce, jalapeno, and salt. Then pour over the cucumber and watermelon. Gently toss the ingredients to spread the dressing around.
Add the parsley and toss gently again. Add the black pepper to taste and salt if needed. It is ready to serve.
Printable Watermelon-Cucumber Salad Recipe Card
Watermelon Cucumber Salad
Ingredients
- 3 cups of cucumbers, cut into ½ inch cubes
- 4 cups of watermelon, cut in 1 inch cubes (
- 3 ½ Tablespoons of lime juice
- 3 Tablespoons of hoisin sauce
- 2 teaspoons of seeded and finely diced jalapeno
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/3 cup of chopped flat-leaf parsley
Instructions
- Place the cucumber and watermelon cubes into a strainer over a medium sized bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. This allows any of the juice from the watermelon to drip into the bowl so the dressing doesn't get watered down.
- When it is done refrigerating, put the cucumbers and watermelon into a serving dish.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the: lime juice, hoisin sauce, jalapeno, salt, and pepper. Then pour over the cucumber and watermelon. Gently toss the ingredients to spread the dressing around.
- Add the parsley and toss gently again.
- It is now ready to serve and enjoy.
Nutrition Facts
Watermelon Cucumber Salad
Serves: 8
| Amount Per Serving: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 45.33 kcal | |
| % Daily Value* | ||
| Total Fat 0.39 g | 0% | |
| Saturated Fat 0.07 g | 0% | |
| Trans Fat 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol 0.18 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium 245.38 mg | 10.2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate 10.75 g | 3.3% | |
| Dietary Fiber 0.84 g | 0% | |
| Sugars 7.22 g | ||
| Protein 1.05 g | ||
| Vitamin A 3.83 % | Vitamin C 14.73 % | |
| Calcium 1.89 % | Iron 2.98 % | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Family Focus Blog
You will love the sweetness of the watermelon, the crunch of the cucumbers, the salt and sour of the hoisin, and the heat from jalapenos. Delish! Another fun variation of this you can try is adding feta cheese crumbles for a extra salty but creamy touch.
This cucumber watermelon salad recipe is so light and tasty you will go back for seconds! The best part about this summer salad is that both cucumbers and watermelon are nutritious so you can enjoy guilt free!
This Watermelon Cucumber Salad is an ideal summer dish because it’s light, hydrating, and full of fresh flavors that can help beat the heat and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy the crunchy texture of this perfect summer side dish! Now that you know a great summer time salad that is both easy and delicious, will you make some for yourself or your family?
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Cucumber Sandwich Recipe (Gluten-Free)