Watermelon Salsa
Watermelon Salsa Recipe - Vegan Recipe with Fresh Ingredients
Introduction
Watermelon salsa is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for summer gatherings and barbecues. The combination of sweet watermelon, tangy balsamic vinegar, and spicy jalapeno pepper creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that will impress your guests.
History
Watermelon salsa is a modern twist on traditional salsa recipes, which typically include tomatoes, onions, and peppers. The addition of watermelon adds a sweet and juicy element to the dish, making it a popular choice for those looking for a refreshing and light appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh watermelon, diced medium
- 0.5 cup red onion, diced small
- 0.5 cup sweet red pepper, diced medium
- 0.5 cup tomato, diced medium
- 1 tsp jalapeno pepper, minced
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1.5 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 0.25 cup olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
How to prepare
- Combine all the ingredients and refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve the dish cold or slightly warm with your preferred seafood or chicken.
Variations
- Add diced avocado for a creamy texture.
- Substitute mango for the watermelon for a tropical twist.
- Use pineapple instead of watermelon for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to dice the ingredients to a uniform size to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeno pepper to suit your spice preference.
- For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno pepper before mincing.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve watermelon salsa with grilled shrimp, fish tacos, or as a topping for grilled chicken or pork. It can also be enjoyed on its own with tortilla chips or as a topping for salads.
Cooking Techniques
Refrigerate the salsa for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the salsa cold or slightly warm for the best flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use white vinegar or lime juice instead of balsamic vinegar.
- Substitute parsley, basil, or cilantro with your favorite herbs.
Make Ahead Tips
Watermelon salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Serve watermelon salsa in a hollowed-out watermelon shell for a fun and festive presentation. - Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair watermelon salsa with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
- Serve with a light and refreshing beer, such as a wheat beer or pale ale.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover watermelon salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Serve cold or at room temperature, but do not reheat as the watermelon will become mushy.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
- Approximately 100 calories per serving
Carbohydrates
- Watermelon: 11g per cup
- Red onion: 10g per cup
- Sweet red pepper: 9g per cup
- Tomato: 5g per cup
- Jalapeno pepper: 4g per pepper
Fats
- Olive oil: 14g per tablespoon
Proteins
- None
Vitamins and minerals
Watermelon is a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
- Red pepper is high in vitamin C and vitamin A.
- Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and potassium.
Alergens
None
Summary
Watermelon salsa is a low-calorie dish that is high in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for those looking to add more fruits and vegetables to their diet.
Summary
Watermelon salsa is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for summer entertaining. With its sweet and spicy flavors, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy this refreshing salsa with your favorite grilled meats or as a snack with tortilla chips.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Watermelon Salsa. It was a hot summer day, the kind that makes you long for something refreshing and light to eat. I was visiting my dear friend Maria, who had invited me over for a lunch in her garden. As we chatted and sipped on some ice-cold lemonade, Maria disappeared into her kitchen and emerged with a bowl of the most beautiful, vibrant salsa I had ever seen.
I took one look at the colorful mixture of diced watermelon, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice, and I knew I had to have the recipe. Maria laughed when I asked her for it, saying that she had learned how to make it during a trip to Mexico many years ago. She graciously wrote down the ingredients and instructions for me, and that day, I fell in love with Watermelon Salsa.
Over the years, I have made this salsa countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of that sunny afternoon in Maria's garden, and the joy of discovering a new and delicious dish.
The first step in making Watermelon Salsa is, of course, selecting the perfect watermelon. I always look for a melon that feels heavy for its size, with a deep, hollow sound when tapped. I then carefully cut the watermelon into small, uniform cubes, making sure to remove any seeds as I go. The sweetness of the ripe watermelon is the star of this salsa, so it is important to choose a good one.
Next, I dice a red onion and chop up a jalapeno pepper, making sure to remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. The contrast of the spicy jalapeno with the sweet watermelon is what makes this salsa so delicious. I also chop up some fresh cilantro, which adds a bright, herbaceous note to the dish.
In a large bowl, I combine the diced watermelon, red onion, jalapeno, and cilantro, tossing everything together gently. I then squeeze the juice of a lime over the mixture, which adds a tangy kick and helps to bring all the flavors together. I like to let the salsa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Watermelon Salsa is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. I love to scoop it up with crisp tortilla chips for a refreshing snack, or serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light and flavorful meal. It also makes a fantastic topping for tacos or salads, adding a burst of color and flavor to any dish.
As I sit here writing this, I am struck by how a simple recipe for Watermelon Salsa has become such a beloved part of my culinary repertoire. It is a dish that never fails to impress, whether I am serving it to friends at a summer barbecue or enjoying it on a quiet evening at home. And every time I make it, I am transported back to that sunny day in Maria's garden, where I first discovered the magic of this delicious salsa.
Categories
| Jalapeno Pepper Recipes | Onion Recipes | Red Bell Pepper Recipes | Salsa Recipes | Tomato Recipes | Vegan Recipes | Watermelon Recipes |