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Spicy Watermelon Tomato Salad Recipe

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This spicy watermelon tomato salad is a vibrant and refreshing summer side dish featuring juicy heirloom tomatoes, sweet watermelon, and a zesty tamari-lime dressing. Enhanced with fresh jalapeños, basil, toasted cashews, and creamy avocado, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and bright flavors.

Ingredients

Dressing

  • 1 tablespoon tamari
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • ½ teaspoon minced ginger

Salad

  • 3 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into wedges
  • 5 cups cut watermelon (about 2-inch triangles)
  • 1 thinly sliced jalapeño and/or a few Thai chiles
  • 2 tablespoons Thai basil or regular basil
  • 2 tablespoons toasted cashews
  • ½ avocado, diced
  • Sea salt, to taste, if desired
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the tamari, fresh lime juice, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Whisk together until evenly mixed to create a flavorful dressing.
  2. Prepare the salad base: Arrange the sliced heirloom tomatoes, cut watermelon triangles, and thinly sliced jalapeño or Thai chiles on a platter or a shallow serving bowl to keep the juices from collecting at the bottom.
  3. Add dressing and toppings: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the arranged fruits and jalapeños. Then sprinkle with fresh Thai or regular basil, toasted cashews, and diced avocado for added flavor, texture, and creaminess.
  4. Season and serve: Taste the salad and season with sea salt as needed. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for extra citrus brightness if desired.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of jalapeño or chiles according to your spice preference.
  • Use a shallow bowl or a platter to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy as juices collect.
  • To toast cashews, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant.
  • This salad is best served fresh to retain the crisp textures and vibrant flavors.
  • For a nuttier flavor, substitute tamari with soy sauce if not avoiding gluten.