Description
The Spicy Watermelon & Jicama Salad is a blend of fresh watermelon, jicama, and a touch of chili, creating a perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and heat. Watermelon, known for its hydrating qualities, is paired with the crunchy and slightly nutty flavor of jicama. This dish is then given an extra dimension of flavor with the addition of lime juice, chili, and cilantro, offering a refreshing yet spicy kick. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a snack, this salad is sure to become a summer favorite.
Ingredients
- 6 cups watermelon (cubed or balled)
- 2 cups jicama (peeled and julienned or cubed)
- 1 small serrano or jalapeño chili (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional for brightness)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or Tajín (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: Cotija cheese crumbles, mint leaves, sliced scallions, or basil
Instructions
1. Prep the Produce
- Cube watermelon into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel jicama and cut into thin sticks or small cubes.
- Thinly slice chili pepper (remove seeds for less heat).
- Chop cilantro and optional herbs.
2. Mix the Salad Base
- In a large bowl, combine watermelon, jicama, chili slices, and herbs.
- Toss gently to avoid breaking the watermelon.
3. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Combine & Chill
- Pour dressing over salad and toss gently.
- Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to let flavors meld.
5. Serve & Garnish
- Just before serving, sprinkle Cotija cheese or fresh mint if using.
- Serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
Notes
For an extra kick, sprinkle with a little more chili powder or a squeeze of lime before serving. This salad is best enjoyed chilled and makes a refreshing side for summer meals
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook / Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican / Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 150g)
- Calories: ~80
- Sugar: ~12g
- Sodium: ~150mg
- Fat: ~0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Protein: ~1g
- Cholesterol: None
Keywords: Watermelon Jicama Salad, Spicy Fruit Salad, Summer Watermelon Salad, Jicama and Watermelon Salad