This Easy Spicy Watermelon Salad is a colorful mix of sweet watermelon, fresh herbs, and a kick of spice. It’s the perfect way to cool off on a hot day!
Honestly, who knew salad could be so fun? I love how refreshing it is, and adding chili powder gives it a surprising twist! Serve it at BBQs, and watch it disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Use seedless watermelon for this salad to keep it smooth and easy to enjoy. If watermelon isn’t available, cantaloupe or honeydew could work, but the flavor will change slightly.
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños add heat, but you can reduce the quantity if you’re sensitive to spice. For milder options, try using sweet bell peppers or even a sprinkle of black pepper instead.
Cilantro: This herb adds freshness, but if you’re not a fan, fresh mint or parsley can be a nice swap. They both bring a different flavor but still give a fresh touch.
Cotija Cheese: Cotija has a great salty flavor, but feta cheese is a good alternative if it’s hard to find. If you’re avoiding cheese, you can omit it altogether or sprinkle some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get the Right Spice Level in the Salad?
Getting the spice level just right is important for balancing the sweet watermelon. Start with one jalapeño and taste the salad after mixing. If you want more heat, add more slices gradually. Remember, the chili powder can also add spice, so adjust that to your liking, as well.
- Mix the salad gently after adding ingredients to keep the watermelon cubes intact.
- Always taste before serving! Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors greatly.
- If making ahead, leave the cheese off until just before serving to maintain its texture.
How to Make Easy Spicy Watermelon Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1-2 fresh jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese as substitute)
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tsp chili powder (or Tajín seasoning for extra flavor)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick side dish or a light snack on hot days. If you want to let the flavors meld, you can chill it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Watermelon:
Start by placing the cubed watermelon in a large mixing bowl. The watermelon is the star ingredient, and you want it to shine with its juicy sweetness!
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, toss in the thinly sliced jalapeño peppers for a spicy kick and the chopped cilantro for freshness. Their vibrant colors will make your salad even more appealing!
3. Season It Up:
Evenly sprinkle the chili powder or Tajín seasoning over the melon mixture. This will add a zesty flavor to your salad. It’s all about layering those tastes!
4. Add Lime Juice:
Squeeze the juice of one lime over the salad and use a spatula or spoon to gently mix everything together. The lime juice will brighten the flavors and balance the sweetness of the watermelon.
5. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Finally, crumble the cotija cheese on top of the salad for a creamy finish. If you’re using feta cheese, that works great too! It adds a nice salty note to the dish.
6. Final Touches:
Give your salad a quick taste and add salt if needed. Don’t forget that the cheese may add some saltiness, so taste before you add more salt!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or let it chill in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes for a cooling effect. Enjoy your bright, spicy, and refreshing watermelon salad!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Watermelon Salad
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the salad up to 2 hours in advance. However, it’s best to add the cheese just before serving to keep it fresh and maintain its texture.
What If I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
No problem! You can simply omit the jalapeños and chili powder. The salad will still taste delicious with just the sweet watermelon, lime juice, and fresh herbs.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The watermelon will release some juices, so be prepared for a slightly softer texture when you eat it later!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have cotija cheese, you can use feta or even goat cheese for a different flavor. Each will give a unique taste to the salad!
