Wowee Watermelon Salsa

Fresh watermelon salsa is summer in a bowl juicy sweet refreshing and with just the right touch of spice This is my go to dish for picnics and potlucks because it disappears fast with crunchy chips or simply on its own

I first whipped this up at a family barbecue on a sweltering July afternoon The kids ate it by the spoonful and even my salsa skeptic uncle went back for seconds

Ingredients

• Watermelon: Use the ripest sweetest melon you can find While any variety works seedless is less hassle Remember to save the juice for a fun drink
• Onion: A small amount adds gentle bite Choose fresh onion with no soft spots or strong odor for best flavor
• Garlic Clove: Just one for subtle garlicky background Crush it to release extra flavor
• Limes: Fresh juice and zest brighten everything Pick limes that feel heavy for their size for the juiciest outcome
• Green Pepper: Adds crispness and color Go for a glossy skin and firm feel
• Jalapeno Pepper: Brings mild spice Remove seeds for less heat Always choose bright plump peppers
• Cilantro Leaves: Fresh and vibrant Chop just the leaves for the brightest taste Avoid limp bunches
• Salt: Simple but vital to enhance sweetness of watermelon Use fine salt for better distribution
• Chips Crackers or Pita: Serve with your favorite crunchy base Choose the freshest option with no staleness

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Watermelon:

Using a sharp knife cut the watermelon in half Depending on your style carve either a round bowl or oval shape with a zigzag border Using a large spoon carefully scoop out the flesh leaving a border for sturdiness Check that your shell sits flat by trimming a bit from the base if needed but avoid making a hole Let the bowl drain upside down

Chop and Drain Watermelon:

Trim flesh from carved triangles and add to the main pile Remove dark seeds Chop watermelon into small pea sized bits Work in batches letting the juice drain into the sink as you go Place all chopped melon into a colander and let it drain for at least half an hour up to an hour for best texture Every so often shake or toss to release more juice Save the draining juice for a refreshing drink

Macerate Onion and Garlic:

Finely mince the onion and add to a large mixing bowl Press or mince the garlic and add it in Grate the zest from both limes and add it Squeeze in all the lime juice Let this sit so the onion and garlic flavor mellow in the citrus

Add Peppers and Herbs:

Finely chop the green pepper and add to the bowl Do not stir yet Mince the jalapeno after removing seed and stem Add to bowl along with chopped cilantro and sprinkle on the salt

Combine and Serve:

Right before serving add the drained watermelon Chop into the bowl with the vegetables and mix well Spoon carefully into your decorative watermelon shell Only half will fit at one time Refill as needed

Save

One of my favorite moments with this dish was watching my little niece help carve the fancy zigzag bowl She wore watermelon juice like war paint and we laughed the whole time The scent of fresh lime and cilantro always brings me back to that picnic

Storage Tips

Keep leftover salsa in a tightly covered container in the fridge It is best eaten within twenty four hours as watermelon continues to release juice and soften over time Pour off extra liquid before serving leftovers to refresh the flavor

Ingredient Substitutions

No jalapeno on hand Swap with a pinch of chili flakes or serrano pepper For cilantro haters flat leaf parsley works For more sweetness add a handful of ripe mango chunks For an onion substitute try sweet red onion or even thinly sliced green onion

Serving Suggestions

Heaped into taco shells Over grilled fish or chicken Tossed with cooked shrimp A topper for grain bowls Or simply with pita chips as a party appetizer This salsa brings color and a sweet spicy crunch wherever it goes

Save

Cultural Context

Fruit salsas have roots in Mexico where tangy spicy sweet blends complement grilled meats or simple snacks Watermelon variations are popular for their cooling qualities in hot climates and their vibrant beauty on any spread

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare watermelon salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop and drain the watermelon and prep vegetables in advance. Combine just before serving for freshness.

→ How do I keep the salsa from getting watery?

Thoroughly drain the chopped watermelon for at least 30 minutes, shaking the colander occasionally, for best texture.

→ What other herbs work besides cilantro?

Fresh mint or basil add a unique twist if you prefer a different flavor profile in your salsa.

→ Is this salsa spicy?

The heat level depends on the jalapeno. Remove seeds for mild heat or keep some for extra kick.

→ How should I serve watermelon salsa?

It's delicious with taco chips, toasted pita, crackers, or as a vibrant side salad for grilled dishes.

→ Can I use other peppers instead of green pepper?

You can substitute sweet red or yellow bell pepper for a different flavor and color, if desired.