Looking for a refreshing dish that packs a punch? Dive into the world of flavors with our Spicy Vegan Watermelon Salad, where sweet meets heat in the most delightful way! This vibrant salad combines juicy watermelon, crunchy corn, and a medley of nuts, all elevated by the aromatic touch of fresh basil and a kick of cayenne pepper. Perfect for summer gatherings or a light lunch, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s get started on this quick and easy recipe that can be whipped up in just 15 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups watermelon, cubed
- 1 cup corn, cooked
- 1/2 cup mixed nuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping them precisely. Cube the watermelon into uniform 1-inch pieces, ensuring they are fresh and chilled.
- If using fresh corn, cook the corn kernels by boiling or grilling until tender and slightly charred. Allow the corn to cool to room temperature.
- Toast the mixed nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance their flavor and crunch. Set aside to cool.
- Chop the fresh basil leaves finely, releasing their aromatic oils. Use a sharp knife to ensure clean, precise cuts.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed watermelon, cooled corn kernels, and toasted mixed nuts.
- Sprinkle cayenne pepper over the mixture, adjusting the amount to suit your spice preference. Mix gently to distribute the heat evenly.
- Drizzle fresh lime juice over the salad, which will add brightness and help balance the spicy and sweet flavors.
- Gently fold in the chopped basil, ensuring even distribution throughout the salad.
- Season with salt to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting as needed.
- Chill the salad for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together. Serve cold as a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Watermelon: For the best flavor, select a ripe watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a uniform shape. Look for a creamy yellow spot on the bottom, which indicates ripeness.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: If you’re short on time, frozen corn can be a great alternative to fresh. Just thaw and use it directly in the salad for convenience.
- Nut Variations: Feel free to mix and match your nuts! Almonds, walnuts, or pecans can add different textures and flavors to the salad.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you're not a fan of too much heat, start with half the amount of cayenne pepper and gradually increase it to your liking.
- Chill for Best Flavor: Allow the salad to chill for at least 10 minutes after mixing. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or as a light main course. It pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or tacos.
- Garnish for Presentation: For an extra touch, sprinkle some extra chopped basil or a few whole nuts on top just before serving to make the dish visually appealing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 177kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
