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Flavorful Spicy Watermelon Salad with Chili Lime and Tajín

spicy watermelon salad - featured image

A refreshing summer salad combining juicy watermelon cubes with a tangy chili lime dressing and smoky Tajín seasoning, perfect for a sweet and spicy flavor punch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (600 grams) fresh watermelon, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • Juice of 2 medium limes (about 3 tablespoons or 45 ml)
  • 2 teaspoons Tajín seasoning (or more to taste)
  • 1/4 cup (4 grams) fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) honey or agave syrup (optional)
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Optional add-ins: crumbled Cotija or feta cheese, thinly sliced red onion, avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Cut about 4 cups (600 grams) of fresh watermelon into bite-sized cubes, removing any seeds if necessary.
  2. Finely chop one small jalapeño (if using), removing seeds for milder spice, and roughly chop 1/4 cup (4 grams) fresh cilantro leaves.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of 2 medium limes (about 3 tablespoons/45 ml), 2 teaspoons Tajín, 1 teaspoon honey or agave (optional), and a pinch of sea salt. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, chopped jalapeño, and cilantro. Pour the chili lime dressing over and gently toss to coat evenly without breaking up the watermelon.
  5. If desired, sprinkle about 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija or feta cheese, and add thinly sliced red onion or avocado slices.
  6. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Before serving, sprinkle a little extra Tajín on top and garnish with whole cilantro leaves.

Notes

Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Adjust the amount of Tajín and jalapeño to control heat level. Chill salad before serving to meld flavors but avoid making too far ahead to prevent sogginess. Toss gently to avoid breaking watermelon cubes.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, spicy watermelon, Tajín, chili lime dressing, summer salad, refreshing salad, easy salad recipe