This refreshing Watermelon Shiso Salad combines juicy watermelon with fragrant shiso leaves. It’s a burst of sweet and herbal flavors perfect for hot days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Fresh, juicy watermelon is the star of this salad! You can use any sweet variety, but seedless watermelon is easiest to handle. If watermelon isn’t available, try cantaloupe for a different flavor.
Shiso Leaves: Shiso has a unique flavor that brightens the salad. If shiso is hard to find, mint is a great alternative. While it has a different taste, mint still adds a fresh touch and works nicely in this dish.
Cucumber: Regular cucumber adds crunch, but if you want a twist, try using English cucumber or even a pickling cucumber. Both have excellent texture. If you’re avoiding cucumbers, you could also use zucchini.
Soy Sauce: This provides the savory note in the dressing. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead. You could also try coconut aminos, which is a bit sweeter.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for This Salad?
The dressing is simple, but getting it just right is key to a delicious salad. Here’s how to make it:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil.
- Add a pinch of salt, but remember to taste since soy sauce is salty too!
- Make sure the dressing is well combined before pouring it over the salad. This simple mix adds depth and pulls all the fresh flavors together.
Refreshing Watermelon Shiso Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups watermelon, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/4 cup fresh shiso leaves (or mint as a substitute), chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare. There’s no cooking required, just a bit of chopping and mixing, plus a quick 10 minutes to let the flavors blend. Easy and fresh!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Add the diced watermelon, cucumber, green bell pepper, red cabbage, and chopped shiso leaves. Give them a gentle stir to mix everything together evenly.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. This will be your dressing that adds a delicious flavor to the salad!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to toss everything gently. Make sure all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
4. Add Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top of the salad and add the chopped green onions for a fresh burst of flavor. It looks beautiful!
5. Let it Rest:
Allow the salad to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld together, making your salad even more delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect on a warm day or as a light side dish. Enjoy your refreshing Watermelon Shiso Salad!
Can I Use Different Herbs Instead of Shiso?
Absolutely! If you can’t find shiso, fresh mint is a great substitute. You can also try basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile. Just remember to chop them finely for the best distribution in the salad.
How Can I Adjust the Dressing for a Low-Sodium Version?
If you’re looking to reduce sodium, use a low-sodium soy sauce or substitute it with coconut aminos. You can also increase the acidity by adding more rice vinegar, which will enhance the overall flavor without the added salt.
How Do I Store Leftover Watermelon Salad?
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should stay fresh for up to 2 days. The watermelon may release some juice, so give it a gentle toss before serving again. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be a great next-day snack!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Bell peppers, radishes, or even julienned carrots would be delicious additions. Just keep in mind that they should complement the sweetness of the watermelon for the best flavor combination.
