Spicy Watermelon Salsa with Jalapeño, Cilantro & Lime Juice
This refreshing Spicy Watermelon Salsa combines juicy watermelon with zesty jalapeños and bright lime juice for a perfect summer dish. It’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal addition to any gathering.
- Author: Bluebella
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
- 4 cups of seedless watermelon, diced (about 1 medium watermelon)
- 1 medium red onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Optional: 1 avocado, diced (for added creaminess)
- Start by preparing your watermelon. Cut the watermelon in half and scoop out the flesh using a large spoon, then dice it into 1-inch cubes. Aim for about 4 cups of diced watermelon, which is roughly one medium watermelon. Keep an eye out for any seeds if your watermelon isn’t seedless.
- Next, finely chop the medium red onion. You’ll want about 1 cup. To avoid tears, try chilling the onion in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before chopping. This step can help reduce the release of sulfur compounds that cause eye irritation.
- Now, take your jalapeños. Slice them in half lengthwise and remove the seeds for less heat. Finely chop 1-2 jalapeños based on your heat preference. Remember that the heat can vary, so start with one pepper and taste before adding more.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced watermelon, chopped red onion, and jalapeños. Use a rubber spatula to gently fold the ingredients together, being careful not to crush the watermelon cubes. You want to maintain the salsa's texture, so take your time.
- Add in the 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro and the juice of 2 limes. The lime juice not only adds flavor but also prevents the watermelon from browning. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
- Season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting to taste. Mix again and taste your salsa; you may want to add a pinch more salt or lime juice based on your preference.
- If you’re adding avocado for creaminess, gently fold in 1 diced avocado at the end to prevent it from becoming mushy. The avocado adds a lovely texture and richness that complements the salsa beautifully.
- Let your watermelon salsa rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Serve chilled, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Be cautious with the jalapeños; start with one and taste before adding more. For maximum flavor, choose ripe and in-season watermelons. This salsa can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.