This refreshing watermelon and shiso salad is perfect for hot days! Sweet chunks of watermelon mix with aromatic shiso leaves for a burst of flavor that’s simply delicious.
Every bite is a little summer party in your mouth! I love serving it as a light snack or a fancy side at picnics. It’s super easy to whip up, just chop and toss—how simple is that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Use any sweet, ripe watermelon for the best flavor. If watermelon isn’t available, cantaloupe or honeydew can work too, but they will change the taste slightly.
Shiso Leaves: These leaves add a unique flavor. If you can’t find them, mint or basil can be used as substitutes, making sure to adjust the quantity as they have different flavor profiles.
Jalapeño: This ingredient adds a kick! If you prefer a milder salad, skip the jalapeño or use bell pepper instead for a crunch without the heat.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, swap soy sauce with tamari. Coconut aminos can also be a great alternative for a soy-free dressing.
Sesame Oil: This ingredient enhances the nutty flavor, but if you’re allergic to sesame, you could use a light olive oil or avocado oil instead.
How Do You Make Sure the Salad Stays Crisp?
To keep your salad fresh and crisp, follow these steps:
- Start with cold ingredients. Refrigerate the watermelon and cucumber before using.
- Cut the watermelon just before mixing, as it can release juice and make the salad soggy.
- Add the dressing right before serving to avoid wilting the greens and cucumbers.
By doing these things, your salad will stay light and crunchy, making each bite enjoyable!
Easy Watermelon Shiso Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 5–6 fresh shiso leaves, thinly sliced (use a mix of green and purple if available)
- 1 jalapeño or green chili, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Time Needed:
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, plus you can chill it for an additional 10-15 minutes to let the flavors develop even more before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
Start by making the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey. Whisk everything together until the honey is fully dissolved. This will create a smooth and delicious dressing for your salad!
2. Combine Watermelon and Cucumber:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed watermelon, diced cucumber, and the sliced jalapeño if you’re using it. The juicy watermelon and crisp cucumber balance beautifully together!
3. Toss with Dressing:
Now, pour the dressing over the watermelon mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat the fruit and veggies evenly, allowing all those yummy flavors to mix. Be careful not to crush the watermelon pieces!
4. Add Shiso and Green Onions:
Add the thinly sliced shiso leaves and sliced green onions to the bowl. Fold them in gently for a burst of fresh flavor. Shiso really elevates this salad!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch and nutty flavor. You can enjoy the salad right away or let it chill for 10-15 minutes to really enhance that refreshing taste!
This Easy Watermelon Shiso Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that brings together the sweet watermelon, crisp cucumber, and aromatic shiso with a savory dressing. It’s perfect for a summer dish or a light appetizer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Regular Cucumbers Instead of English Cucumbers?
Absolutely! Regular cucumbers can be used; just peel them if the skin is too thick for your taste. English cucumbers tend to have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, making them a bit more refreshing in salads, but regular cucumbers will work just fine!
What Can I Substitute for Shiso Leaves?
If you can’t find shiso leaves, mint or basil are great substitutes! They offer a different but equally refreshing flavor. Use them in slightly smaller amounts as they can be stronger in taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the watermelon may release some juice, so it’s best to consume it as soon as possible for optimal freshness and crunch!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Store the watermelon and cucumber separately and mix them with the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. The salad can be refrigerated for up to 1 hour before serving if needed.
