This vibrant Watermelon Shiso Salad is a true treat! With juicy watermelon chunks and the unique flavor of shiso leaves, it’s both refreshing and fun to eat.
The combination is perfect for hot days or when you need a light snack. I love to serve it at picnics, and it always gets compliments—who knew salad could be this exciting? 🍉🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Fresh, ripe watermelon is key for sweetness and juiciness. If watermelon isn’t available, try cantaloupe or honeydew for a similar taste.
Cucumber: I prefer using English cucumbers since they are sweeter and have fewer seeds. You can also swap with Persian cucumbers or omit altogether if you want something lighter.
Shiso: This herb adds a distinct flavor. If you can’t find it, mint or basil can be used as a substitute, though the taste will differ a bit.
Jalapeño: For a milder option, try bell pepper or omit it completely. If you love heat, consider using serrano peppers instead for an extra kick!
Sesame Oil: This oil provides a rich, nutty flavor. If you’re sensitive to sesame, grapeseed oil or a light olive oil can work well.
How Do I Make Sure My Watermelon Shiso Salad Is Full of Flavor?
To create a delicious salad, focus on dressing and chilling the salad. First, whisk the dressing ingredients well to blend the flavors fully. After mixing the dressing with the salad, let it chill for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the ingredients to absorb the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- Combine all fresh ingredients but don’t dress them until just before serving.
- Mix the dressing in a separate bowl for even coating.
- Chill to let flavors marry; it truly makes a difference!
Refreshing Watermelon Shiso Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1-2 fresh shiso leaves, thinly sliced (green or purple shiso)
- 1 small jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus another 15-20 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’ll spend about 30 minutes from start to serving, making this dish perfect for a quick and healthy option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the watermelon cubes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced shiso leaves, sliced jalapeño (if you’re using it), and chopped green onions. Gently mix these ingredients together with a spatula or spoon until they’re well combined.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and minced garlic until everything is well mixed. This dressing adds a lovely balance of flavors to your salad!
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the watermelon mixture and toss gently to ensure that all the ingredients are coated with the dressing. Be gentle to keep the watermelon cubes intact!
4. Add the Finishing Touch:
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the salad for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. You can adjust the amount depending on your preference.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
After chilling, give the salad a gentle toss one more time before serving. Enjoy this vibrant and refreshing watermelon shiso salad as a delightful side dish or as a light appetizer!
This salad beautifully combines the sweetness of watermelon with the herbal aroma of shiso, along with a hint of heat from jalapeño, creating a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for warm weather. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions about Watermelon Shiso Salad
Can I Use Other Herbs Besides Shiso?
Absolutely! If you can’t find shiso, mint or basil make excellent substitutes, though they will give the salad a slightly different flavor. Choose fresh herbs for the best results!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Rice Vinegar?
If rice vinegar isn’t available, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as alternatives. They will add a nice acidity, but start with a bit less and adjust to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the watermelon may release some liquid, so just give it a gentle toss before eating!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with ingredients like feta cheese, avocado, or other seasonal fruits like mango or berries for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the dressing accordingly for balance!
