This refreshing watermelon shiso salad is a perfect summer treat! With juicy watermelon cubes and the unique taste of shiso leaves, it’s light, bright, and super satisfying.
I love how easy this salad is to whip up, making it ideal for hot days. Plus, who wouldn’t want to munch on something so colorful and tasty? It’s like a summer party on your plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Watermelon: Choose a ripe, seedless watermelon for the best sweetness and texture. If watermelon isn’t available, cantaloupe or honeydew melon can work as good alternatives, just adjust the flavor with a bit more lime juice since they’re less sweet.
Shiso Leaves: Shiso adds a minty, slightly spice-like taste. If you can’t find shiso, consider using mint or basil for a fresh flavor, though the taste will change slightly.
Cucumber: Any cucumber will do, but English cucumbers are my favorite since they have fewer seeds and a nice crunch. If cucumbers are out of season, zucchini can be a great substitute.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the salad, but lemon juice can be a handy substitute if you don’t have limes on hand. It offers a similar tangy kick!
How Can I Make Sure the Salad Stays Crisp?
To keep your salad fresh and crisp, one important tip is to prep the ingredients just before serving. Watermelon can release water as it sits, making the salad soggy. Also, add salt just before serving to avoid drawing out moisture!
- Mix watermelon, shiso, cucumber, and onion in a bowl.
- Whisk dressing in a separate bowl; don’t add until serving.
- Toss gently and serve soon after, preferably chilled!
Refreshing Watermelon Shiso Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cut into cubes
- 10-12 fresh shiso leaves, thinly sliced
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Toasted sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prep and serves up a burst of flavor in no time. Perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish for your summer gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Salad Base:
In a large bowl, add the watermelon cubes, thinly sliced shiso leaves, cucumber slices, and red onion. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together. This vibrant combo will already look beautiful!
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, honey (or agave syrup), rice vinegar, and olive oil until everything is well combined. Taste a bit of the dressing to see if you’d like to adjust the sweetness or acidity.
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients, then toss gently. Make sure all the pieces get coated with the yummy dressing; this will enhance all the flavors!
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over your salad to taste. Remember, a little goes a long way, so start with a sprinkle and adjust as needed.
5. Allow the Flavors to Meld:
Let your salad sit for about 5-10 minutes. This gives the flavors a chance to combine beautifully, making every bite a burst of freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled, and if you like, garnish with toasted sesame seeds for an extra bit of crunch and flavor. Enjoy this refreshing dish during warm days or as a lovely side at any meal!
FAQ for Refreshing Watermelon Shiso Salad
Can I Use Other Melons Instead of Watermelon?
Absolutely! Cantaloupe and honeydew can make great substitutes. Keep in mind that they have different sweetness levels, so you might want to adjust the amount of lime juice accordingly to balance the flavors.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Just know that the watermelon may release some moisture over time!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan-Friendly?
Yes! The salad is naturally vegan when using agave syrup instead of honey. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based, making it perfect for anyone following a vegan diet.
What If I Can’t Find Shiso Leaves?
If shiso leaves are hard to find, you can substitute them with fresh mint or basil. While the flavor will be slightly different, these herbs will still add a refreshing touch to your salad!
