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Watermelon Shiso Salad Recipe


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4 from 54 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A refreshing and vibrant Watermelon Shiso Salad, combining juicy watermelon cubes with fragrant shiso leaves, crisp cucumber, and a zesty lime dressing. This light and flavorful salad is perfect for a quick summer appetizer or a healthy side dish.


Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 cups watermelon, cubed
  • 1/2 cup fresh shiso leaves (about 1012 leaves), chopped or torn
  • 1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave (optional for added sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish (Optional)

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Cube the watermelon into bite-sized pieces, chop or tear the shiso leaves, and thinly slice the cucumber. Place all these salad components into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, honey or agave (if using), rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
  3. Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the watermelon, shiso, and cucumber mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure the salad is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the optional sesame seeds and fresh mint over the salad just before serving for added texture and aromatic freshness. Serve chilled and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • You can replace shiso with fresh basil or mint if unavailable, though the flavor will differ.
  • For a vegan option, use agave instead of honey.
  • Adjust sweetness by omitting or adding more honey/agave depending on your preference.
  • Serve the salad chilled for maximum refreshment, especially on hot days.
  • Adding a handful of toasted nuts or crumbled feta can add texture and protein.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Japanese