Watermelon Caprese Salad
EQUIPMENT
- Small ice cream scoop
INGREDIENTS
- 4 cups watermelon balls (use a small ice cream scoop)
- 1 cup fresh bocconcini (mozzarella pearls)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon (~2 tablespoons)
- 3 fresh basil leaves, torn
- 4 tablespoons balsamic vinaigrette
- ½ cup pecans, roasted and roughly chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the watermelon balls, mozzarella pearls, diced cucumber, and sliced strawberries. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste, as the sweetness of the watermelon and strawberries will balance the tanginess of the dressing. Sprinkle the roasted pecans and serve.
MY NOTES
FAQ
What goes well with watermelon caprese salad?
Watermelon salad pairs excellently with a variety of dishes, particularly during the warm summer months. Grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork bring a savory element that complements the salad’s refreshing sweetness. Seafood options such as grilled shrimp, fish, or even seared scallops create a delightful combination of flavors. Vegetarian options like grilled halloumi cheese or tofu offer a satisfying contrast to the juicy watermelon. For a Mediterranean twist, serve it with Greek-style lamb kebabs or falafel. Additionally, light and fresh pasta salads, quiches, or grain bowls with roasted vegetables are excellent choices to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
How do you keep watermelon caprese salad from getting soggy?
To prevent watermelon salad from getting soggy, follow these simple steps. First, ensure the watermelon is ripe but not overly mushy. Cut the watermelon and other fruits or vegetables into bite-sized pieces, removing excess seeds and juice. Pat the watermelon pieces dry with a paper towel before mixing with other ingredients. Combine the ingredients just before serving to maintain their individual textures. If making the salad ahead of time, store the components separately and mix them right before serving. Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve to keep it fresh and crisp.
How long can you keep watermelon caprese salad in the fridge?
Watermelon salad can be kept in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. However, its freshness and texture are best within the first day of preparation. To maximize shelf life, store the salad in an airtight container to minimize exposure to air, which can lead to faster deterioration. Keep it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally at temperatures below 40°F (4°C). If the salad has any dairy-based dressings, it’s advisable to consume it within a day to avoid potential spoilage.
