This Watermelon Shiso Salad is a bright and tasty treat that combines sweet watermelon with the unique flavor of shiso leaves. It’s cool, crisp, and perfect for hot days!
I can’t resist how easy this salad is to make! Just chop, toss, and enjoy—it’s like summer in a bowl! Great for picnics, or just lounging in the backyard with friends! 🍉🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Sweet and juicy watermelon is the star here. If you’re looking for a substitute, cantaloupe or honeydew can work, but the texture will differ. Always choose seasonal fruit for the best flavor!
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch to the dish. English cucumbers are great as they have fewer seeds. If unavailable, use Persian cucumbers or even jicama for a different crunch.
Shiso leaves: Shiso brings a unique, minty flavor. If you can’t find it, try fresh mint or basil as alternatives—they won’t be the same, but they’ll add freshness to the salad.
Green Chili: For a little heat, jalapeño is a good pick. If you’d like it milder, remove the seeds and membranes or skip it entirely. Red chili flakes can also give a nice kick if you’re up for it!
Sesame Oil: This oil adds a lovely nutty flavor. You can use olive oil if you’re in a pinch, but it will change the profile a bit. Just know that sesame oil is best for its unique taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Refreshing and Flavorful?
To ensure your salad shines, start with quality ingredients—fresh, ripe watermelon and crisp veggies are key. Here are some important tips:
- Chill your ingredients before mixing—the colder they are, the more refreshing the salad!
- Let the salad sit in the fridge for a bit after mixing. This step helps the flavors blend nicely.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. You might like more oil or vinegar, so taste as you go!
- Toss gently to keep the watermelon intact and avoid mushiness.
Enjoy making this salad a showstopper at your next gathering or simply for a refreshing snack!
Refreshing Watermelon Shiso Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped into small pieces
- 1-2 fresh shiso leaves (green or purple), thinly sliced
- 1 green chili (such as jalapeño or serrano), thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (for slight sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad will take about 15 minutes of preparation time. It’s quick to throw together, and all you need to do is chop and mix the ingredients. Letting it rest in the fridge for about 5-10 minutes helps the flavors marry!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by cutting your watermelon into bite-sized cubes and chopping the cucumber into small pieces. Thinly slice the green chili and chop the green onions. Make sure you’re careful with the chili, adjusting the amount based on how spicy you want your salad!
2. Mix the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the watermelon, cucumber, sliced green chili, and green onions. Add the thinly sliced shiso leaves to the mix. The shiso will add a lovely aromatic touch to the salad!
3. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey or agave syrup if you like a hint of sweetness. Make sure everything is well combined to create a flavorful dressing!
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the watermelon mixture and gently toss everything together. Be careful not to mush up the watermelon—just enough to coat everything with that delicious dressing!
5. Add the Final Touches:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. This really elevates the dish and adds a beautiful finishing touch!
6. Chill and Serve:
Let the salad rest for 5-10 minutes in the fridge to let all the flavors meld together. Once you’re ready to serve, look forward to enjoying this chilled, refreshing dish either as an appetizer or a light side!
Enjoy your delightful Watermelon Shiso Salad—a perfect palette of sweetness, crunch, and flavor for any sunny day! 🍉🌿
FAQ for Refreshing Watermelon Shiso Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! While watermelon is the star, you can add other fruits like cantaloupe, honeydew, or even berries for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that different fruits will change the flavor profile slightly.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
This salad is already vegan-friendly! The dressing made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil doesn’t contain any animal products. Just make sure your soy sauce is gluten-free if you’re sensitive to gluten!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh as the watermelon might release water over time!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but I recommend adding the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients crispy and fresh. If you dress it too early, the watermelon can become too mushy.
