Description
This refreshing Watermelon Shiso Salad combines the sweetness of juicy watermelon with the unique, herbaceous flavor of shiso leaves, creating a vibrant and flavorful salad. With a light dressing and a touch of citrus, this salad is perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy, light snack.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1/2 cup fresh shiso leaves (about 10–12 leaves), chopped or torn
- 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave (optional for added sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Watermelon:
Cut the watermelon into cubes and place it in a large mixing bowl. - Chop the Shiso and Cucumber:
Thinly slice the cucumber and chop or tear the shiso leaves into bite-sized pieces. Add the cucumber and shiso to the bowl with watermelon. - Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey (if using), rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until combined. - Assemble the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the watermelon, cucumber, and shiso mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly without crushing the watermelon. - Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the salad with sesame seeds and fresh mint leaves, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes for a cooler option.
Notes
- For a more savory version, consider adding a small drizzle of soy sauce to the dressing.
- You can also add sliced radishes or green onions for extra crunch and flavor.
- Shiso leaves are aromatic and slightly peppery. If you can’t find them, basil can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Japanese-inspired, Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg