Chili Lime Watermelon Salad

As the summer sun shines bright, the craving for light, refreshing dishes becomes almost irresistible. Summer salads, with their vibrant colors and crisp textures, are the perfect way to celebrate the season's bounty. Among the myriad of salad options, the Zesty Chili Lime Watermelon Salad stands out as a unique, flavor-packed dish that combines sweet, savory, and spicy elements. This salad is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful explosion of flavors that embodies the essence of summer.

Discover the ultimate summer dish with our Zesty Chili Lime Watermelon Salad! Perfectly combining sweet watermelon, crunchy cucumber, and a hint of heat from jalapeño, this salad is a refreshing way to beat the heat. Toss in fresh cilantro, a zesty lime dressing, and finish with creamy avocado for a nutritious delight. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or casual gatherings, this vibrant salad is sure to impress and keep you hydrated all summer long. Enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite!

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Ingredients

4 cups of seedless watermelon, cubed

1 cup fresh cucumber, diced

½ red onion, thinly sliced

1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for extra heat)

¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Juice of 2 limes

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 avocado, sliced (for garnish)

Crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese (for topping, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Watermelon: Start by cutting the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Mix in the Veggies: Add the diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and finely chopped jalapeño to the bowl with the watermelon.

Season the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, chili powder, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Combine the Ingredients: Drizzle the lime dressing over the watermelon salad. Gently toss everything together until the watermelon and veggies are evenly coated.

Add Fresh Herbs: Fold in the chopped cilantro, mixing gently to distribute it without bruising the salad.

Plate and Garnish: Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with slices of avocado and sprinkle with crumbled feta or cotija cheese if desired.

Chill and Serve: For optimal flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings