Watermelon Salad Recipe – Lemon Basil Summer Refreshment

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Watermelon Salad Recipe – Lemon Basil Summer Refreshment

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, summer means seeking out the most refreshing, easy-going recipes possible. And honestly, this Watermelon Salad with Lemon and Basil is it. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and herbaceous – and it takes almost no time at all to throw together. I first made this for a little garden party last year, and it was gone in minutes! Let’s get into it, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This watermelon salad isn’t just delicious; it’s a lifesaver on hot days. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal cooking (okay, zero cooking!). Plus, the bright flavors are just so uplifting. It’s a beautiful, colorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch. Honestly, it’s just pure summer happiness in a bowl.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this little slice of sunshine:

• 2 cup watermelon cubes
• 2-3 tbsp fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because a few little things can make a big difference!

Watermelon Varieties

You can use any watermelon you like for this! Seedless watermelons are super convenient, but if you have a seeded variety, that’s totally fine too. Just be sure to remove the seeds. I personally love the extra sweetness of a yellow or orange watermelon for this salad, but a classic red watermelon works beautifully too.

Fresh Basil vs. Dried Basil

Please, please, please use fresh basil for this recipe. Dried basil just doesn’t have the same vibrant flavor. The aroma of fresh basil is a huge part of what makes this salad so special. If you’re growing your own, even better!

Lemon Juice – Freshly Squeezed is Best

Again, fresh is best! Bottled lemon juice can have a slightly metallic taste. Squeezing your own lemon juice takes just a minute and really elevates the flavor. About one medium-sized lemon should give you 2 tablespoons.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some magic happen!

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Don’t overthink it – just give it a good whisk until everything is combined.
2. Gently arrange the watermelon cubes and fresh basil leaves in a serving bowl. You can be artistic here, or just toss them in – it’s up to you!
3. Drizzle the lemon dressing over the salad. Be sure to get a little dressing on everything.
4. Gently toss to combine. You want everything nicely coated, but be careful not to mush the watermelon.
5. Chill for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the watermelon to get extra refreshing. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned over the years…

• Don’t be afraid to season! Salt and pepper really bring out the sweetness of the watermelon.
• Cut the watermelon into bite-sized cubes. This makes it easier to eat and ensures that the dressing coats everything evenly.
• Use a light hand when tossing. You don’t want to bruise the watermelon.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Spice Level – Adding a Chili Flake Kick

My friend Priya loves to add a tiny pinch of red chili flakes to the dressing for a little heat. It’s a surprisingly delicious combination!

Festival Adaptations – Summer Solstice Salad

For a summer solstice celebration, I like to add edible flowers to the salad for an extra touch of whimsy.

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is naturally vegan! No changes needed.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! No changes needed.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is fantastic on its own as a light lunch or snack. It also pairs beautifully with grilled fish or chicken. You can also serve it as a side dish at a barbecue or picnic. It’s a real crowd-pleaser!

Storage Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed immediately, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the watermelon may release some liquid as it sits, so it might be a little less crisp.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Is this salad best served immediately, or does it benefit from chilling?

Chilling for about 10 minutes definitely enhances the flavors! It’s not essential, but it’s a nice touch.

Can I use other herbs besides basil in this salad?

While basil is my go-to, mint or even a little cilantro could be interesting! Just use what you like.

What’s the best way to cut a watermelon for this recipe?

I find it easiest to cut the watermelon in half, then into slices, and finally into cubes. There are tons of great tutorials online if you need a visual guide.

Can I add feta cheese or another cheese to this salad?

Absolutely! Feta is a classic pairing with watermelon. A little goat cheese would also be lovely.

How can I prevent the watermelon from becoming soggy?

Don’t dress the salad too far in advance. Add the dressing right before serving to keep the watermelon crisp.