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    Home » Soups & Salads

    Published: Jun 18, 2019 · Modified: Mar 3, 2021 by Angela · This post may contain affiliate links · 48 Comments

    Mexican Watermelon Cucumber Salad

    Jump to Recipe

    This watermelon salad I created for the first time when I didn't want to make the same watermelon, feta, olive version that is all over the internet now.  I quickly decided I wanted to have a Mexican twist where I can use Tajin. Ian and I have started a new fondness for this seasoning blend (especially for rimming our glasses of beer or cocktails).  Tajin is a spice blend of mild chiles, citrus from limes, and salt. It is tangy but not spicy.

    Once I paired up those two flavors the remaining ingredients were not hard to consider. I decided, in the end, to add the list of ingredients below to complete the Mexican taste profile I was going for.  I also wanted to ensure the salad was well balanced with different tastes and textures.  This watermelon salad is vegetarian and vegan as it is made without feta or other cheeses compared to other recipes.

     

    mexican watermelon cucumber salad ingredients

    Mexican Watermelon Cucumber Salad ingredients

     

    Ingredients for Watermelon Salad

    Here is what is needed to assemble the salad:

    • Seedless watermelon - juicy and refreshing
    • Seedless cucumber - for color and a cool crisp texture
    • Toasted pepitas (hulled pumpkin seeds) - for a nutty taste and to add some crunch
    • Red onion - for a sharp kick
    • Dressing - lime, red wine vinegar & olive oil to add to the citrus blend in the Tajin
    • Tajin - seasoning blend of lime, mild chilies & salt that adds a tart zing
    • Fresh herbs to add a sprinkle of earthiness

    I did not add any sort of cheese which many watermelon salads have. This salad needed to be different while also making it fit more dietary needs like vegan, paleo, etc. During this recipe creation, I had to make this a few times to get the dressing right and ensure the watermelon doesn't "water down" the entire salad.  If you follow the instructions below, you will have great results.

     

    How to Make Watermelon Cucumber Salad

    This watermelon salad recipe is so easy and can be made in about 15 minutes. The first step is to dice up the watermelon and get it into a colander in your sink.  It is important to let the watermelon rest and drain while you are cutting the other items and mixing the dressing.  This step helps keep the salad from being too juicy. I know, you want the watermelon to be juicy, that is the whole point of "WATER melon".  But for a salad?  Not this time, no soggy salads, please.

    Next, I like to toast the pepitas, pumpkin seeds. I do so in a dry pan over medium heat.  No need to add oil. Toss them regularly to ensure an even toast. When they are close, watch them like a hawk. I have been known to burn these in the blink of an eye.   When they are done, the pan can rest on the stove so they can cool off. You do not want these hot going into the salad

     

    mexican watermelon cucumber salad toasted pumpkin seeds

    Toast the pepitas (pumpkin seeds)

     

    As the pepitas cool, slice the cucumbers into half rounds. I like the skin on but if you prefer to peel it, you can do that too. I like the brightness of the skins for a pop of color, plus the skins on an English cucumber are more tender and nice on the palate.   The red onion with the watermelon in this salad is a great balance of sweet and spicy. Plus add herbs like basil, cilantro, and fresh parsley.  All of that is an easy prep to dice up the onion and the fresh herbs and set aside.

    In a large serving bowl, add the watermelon that has been draining, the cucumber slices, and the toasted pepitas that have cooled down.

    Whisk the dressing ingredients in a small bowl.    The dressing is the best and perfect for a Mexican watermelon salad thanks to the fresh lime juice and the Tajin seasoning. Everything is now ready for the final step to combine everything and toss it gently.

     

    mexican watermelon cucumber salad ready to assemble the short order cook

    Mexican Watermelon Cucumber Salad ready to assemble

    Pour the dressing over the watermelon, cucumber, and pepitas.  Add the red onion and sprinkle 1 TB of the Tajin over everything.  Combine gently with a large slotted spoon.  Add the fresh herbs to the top and sprinkle with the other 1 TB of Tajin.   Eat immediately as this is best fresh but it can last for about 30 minutes.

     

    PIN THIS RECIPE FOR SAFEKEEPING & SHARING!

     

    Mexican Watermelon Cucumber Salad PIN

    Mexican Watermelon Cucumber Salad PIN

     

    Product Recommendations for this Recipe:

     

    The Short Order Cook is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission on the sale at no additional cost to you. This helps with the costs of running the blog. Thank you! 

     

    mexican watermelon cucumber salad close up the short order cook

    Mexican Watermelon Cucumber Salad

    Angela
    A refreshing salad with the zing of Tajin added to watermelon, cucumber, and toasted pepitas.
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 mins
    Course Salad
    Cuisine Mexican
    Servings 8

    Ingredients
      

    • ½ personal size seedless watermelon diced into bite-size pieces
    • 1 English cucumber sliced thinly into ½ rounds
    • ½ C hulled/shelled pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
    • ¼ large red onion diced small

    Dressing Ingredients:

    • 1 TB olive oil
    • 3 TB lime juice
    • ½ TB red wine vinegar
    • 1 TB Tajin seasoning blend

    Salad Toppings:

    • 2 TB Tajin seasoning blend
    • salt & pepper
    • ¼ C fresh herbs chopped combo cilantro, flat-leaf parsley, and/or basil - any mix you prefer

    Instructions
     

    • Dice the watermelon into bite-sized pieces. As you dice, place pieces in a colander in the sink. The watermelon will release juice and you want that to drain to ensure the salad does not get soggy.
    • Toast the pepitas in a dry saute pan over medium heat on the stove. It should take about 5 minutes. Make sure to toss often to ensure an even toast on both sides. Once toasted golden brown, turn off the heat and move the pan to the side so that they can cool before adding to the salad.
    • Dice the red onion and fresh herbs into small dice, and then set them aside.
    • Combine the dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk to combine.
    • In a large serving bowl add the watermelon, cucumber, and the cool pepitas.
    • Pour the dressing over the ingredients in the bowl and stir gently with a large slotted spoon. Once combined, sprinkle over the top 1 TB of the Tajin, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Gently stir to combine. Top with the final 1 TB of Tajin.
    • Serve immediately using a slotted spoon. Best if enjoyed right away but will stay crisp and fresh for at least 30 minutes.

    Notes

    Nutrition Facts
    Servings: 8
    Amount per serving  
    Calories 81
    % Daily Value*
    Total Fat 2.8g 4%
    Saturated Fat 0.5g 3%
    Cholesterol 0mg 0%
    Sodium 302mg 13%
    Total Carbohydrate 14.6g 5%
    Dietary Fiber 1.1g 4%
    Total Sugars 10.4g  
    Protein 1.9g  
    Vitamin D 0mcg 0%
    Calcium 21mg 2%
    Iron 1mg 4%
    Potassium 247mg 5%
    *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calorie a day is used for general nutrition advice.
    Keyword barbecue, fruit, gluten-free, grain-free, party, picnic, potluck, summer, vegan, vegetarian

     

    Did you make this The Short Order Cook Recipe?

    Tag @theshortordercookblog (Instagram & Facebook) or @shortorder_cook (Twitter). 

    I would love to see your latest creations and kitchen adventures.

     

     

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Caroline Parrott says

      June 18, 2019 at 8:27 am

      Oh! This looks good-ideal Summer picnic food. I have a kid whose favorite foods are watermelon and cucumber, too.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        June 18, 2019 at 12:51 pm

        Caroline - that is great. I cannot wait to hear how your kid likes this. It is also easy to have them help in the kitchen to make it. My son helps but it is hard to keep him from eating all the watermelon before I get it in the bowl!

        Reply
    2. Beth Balberchak says

      July 01, 2019 at 8:28 am

      I've got all these ingredients! I'm going to give this a try.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 01, 2019 at 6:25 pm

        Awesome - it is a great salad and I am sure you will like it. I would love to hear how it turns out and what you think. Come back and drop me a comment please.

        Reply
    3. Joanne says

      July 01, 2019 at 8:43 am

      Looks amazingly simple and delicious! Great summer treat!

      Reply
    4. Kate says

      July 01, 2019 at 9:09 am

      I can't wait to try this! I'm not a fan of olives, but LOVE watermelon. This recipe is the perfect solution! Thank you!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 01, 2019 at 6:26 pm

        Happy to hear I can provide a watermelon salad solution - enjoy!

        Reply
    5. Holly Bird says

      July 01, 2019 at 10:16 am

      This looks amazing! I pinned it for later so I can give this yummy recipe a try! Thanks

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 01, 2019 at 6:26 pm

        Great, enjoy

        Reply
    6. Jennifer says

      July 01, 2019 at 11:15 am

      This combo looks so tasty!!!

      Reply
    7. Haley Kelley says

      July 01, 2019 at 2:25 pm

      This looks so good!!! Definitely trying it with friends this summer!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 01, 2019 at 6:27 pm

        I hope you all love it.

        Reply
    8. Cynthia Mackintosh says

      July 01, 2019 at 5:15 pm

      I don't think I've ever seen a watermelon salad before! This looks so interesting and good that I might have to seriously give this recipe a shot.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 01, 2019 at 6:27 pm

        I hope you try it; it is seriously great!

        Reply
    9. jen says

      July 01, 2019 at 6:13 pm

      This looks light and refreshing and perfect for summer

      Reply
    10. Kymberly Irwin says

      July 01, 2019 at 6:40 pm

      Can't wait to try this!!!!!!!

      Reply
    11. Kyndall Bennett says

      July 01, 2019 at 6:50 pm

      I have never considered adding seasoning to watermelon, but it looks like it would be an interesting recipe to try.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 01, 2019 at 7:35 pm

        Try it, it really adds some "pow" to the watermelon.

        Reply
    12. Dena says

      July 01, 2019 at 7:12 pm

      This sounds AH-MAZING! Pinning this for later!!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 01, 2019 at 7:36 pm

        Thank you

        Reply
    13. Tricia Snow says

      July 01, 2019 at 7:34 pm

      What an interesting combination of flavors! I can't wait to try it!

      Reply
    14. Kendra says

      July 01, 2019 at 8:08 pm

      I've never tried tajin seasoning, but it sounds perfect with watermelon!

      Reply
    15. Leigh Ann says

      July 01, 2019 at 8:08 pm

      Your watermelon salad looks so refreshing and unique! Thanks for sharing it.

      Reply
    16. Karie says

      July 01, 2019 at 10:54 pm

      My kids love anything with Tajin on it. I need to try this.

      Reply
    17. Suzan says

      July 02, 2019 at 3:06 am

      I've never tried Tajin seasoning. This looks so appetizing I may have to hunt some down 🙂

      Reply
    18. Shirley says

      July 02, 2019 at 4:25 am

      This looks delicious and so colorful and fun for summer meals. Love it!

      Reply
    19. Adrienne Redelings says

      July 02, 2019 at 4:44 am

      This looks delicious! We have this on the menu this week she this looks like the perfect side! I can't wait to try it.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 02, 2019 at 4:56 pm

        I cannot wait to hear what you think.

        Reply
    20. Magan says

      July 02, 2019 at 7:05 am

      This looks fantastic! Great for the upcoming holiday when it’s so hot outside.

      Reply
    21. Karla says

      July 02, 2019 at 9:05 am

      My kids are notoriously awful about trying new things. So I am always looking for things that contain what I know they like and adding a different taste. They LOVE watermelon!!!!! Even if they only pick out the watermelon, they will be introduced to a new taste and once they decide they like the new taste, they are often led to try the other parts of the dish. Crossing my fingers on this one. And if they only eat the watermelon anyway, I win! I'll get the rest of the salad! lOL

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 02, 2019 at 4:57 pm

        Great plan, crossing fingers too!

        Reply
    22. Alexandra says

      July 02, 2019 at 11:24 am

      Great post! thank you for sharing! sounds like something my 3yo would absolutely love

      Reply
    23. Laura Lee says

      July 02, 2019 at 5:28 pm

      I seriously bookmarked this. My husband doesn't like cucumbers so if I make it, I'll get it all to myself! And, that's fine by me.

      Reply
    24. Michele says

      July 03, 2019 at 10:28 am

      This looks delicious! I bet it would go great with the jalapeño mule!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 03, 2019 at 4:25 pm

        I think you are onto something magical, Michele.

        Reply
    25. Cindy says

      July 03, 2019 at 7:26 pm

      I love watermelon and I’m excited to try this recipe. Thank you for not adding cheese!! 😉

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 04, 2019 at 2:24 pm

        You are welcome - enjoy the cheese-free version!

        Reply
    26. Jennifer Morrison says

      July 03, 2019 at 8:54 pm

      This sounds amazing!!! I love Watermelon and Tajin. I think that this salad would be amazing!!! Thanks for sharing.

      Reply
    27. Lina says

      July 04, 2019 at 3:19 am

      This looks amazing! I have all these ingredients and will have to make them today. Happy 4th!

      Reply
    28. Emily says

      July 04, 2019 at 1:32 pm

      WOAH! This looks so yummy! Perfect for a holiday weekend!

      Reply
    29. T.M. Brown says

      July 08, 2019 at 5:27 pm

      This looks like a very interesting recipe ~ flavors I would have never thought would go together. Going to have to give this a try.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        July 08, 2019 at 8:51 pm

        Pls do try it out, I think you will be pleasantly surprised!

        Reply
    30. Marianne says

      May 15, 2020 at 7:21 am

      Sounds perfect for a summer BBQ! Recipe pinned for later!

      Reply
      • Angela says

        May 16, 2020 at 3:16 pm

        It sure is great for summer and thanks for pinning.

        Reply
    31. Beth Shields says

      May 16, 2020 at 4:06 pm

      This looks so delicious and refreshing...so does the martini. I will be making both likely. Thanks for the recipes.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        May 17, 2020 at 10:35 am

        You are welcome.

        Reply
    32. Dee | Grammy's Grid says

      August 30, 2020 at 6:16 pm

      CONGRATS! Your post is FEATURED at my #UnlimitedMonthlyLinkParty 16, open until September 26.

      Reply
      • Angela says

        August 30, 2020 at 9:36 pm

        Great, thank you.

        Reply

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