Watermelon Lime Mint Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how incredibly easy this salad is to throw together in just 15 minutes, using seasonal fruit and pantry staples. The combination of watermelon, berries, and cherries provides a naturally sweet base, while the lime and mint dressing adds a vibrant, tangy twist. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free, which means I can serve it to just about anyone without worry. Whether I’m looking for a healthy snack, a colorful side dish, or a beautiful addition to a brunch table, this salad always delivers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salad
4 cups watermelon, cubed into 2.5 cm pieces
1.5 cups strawberries, sliced
1.5 cups raspberries
1.5 cups cherries, pitted and halved

Dressing
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
1.5 teaspoons lime zest
2 tablespoons agave syrup
1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped

Directions

1. I start by preparing the dressing: in a small bowl, I whisk together the agave syrup, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped mint until smooth and fragrant.

2. Next, I cube the watermelon and slice the strawberries, making sure all the fruit is chilled for that extra refreshing effect.

3. In a large salad bowl, I gently mix the watermelon, strawberries, raspberries, and cherries.

4. I drizzle the lime-mint dressing over the fruit and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

5. Just before serving, I like to garnish with a few extra mint leaves for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings — ideal for a large fruit salad to share.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

I sometimes like to switch things up based on what I have on hand:

• Swap the raspberries for blueberries or blackberries.

• Use maple syrup instead of agave for a deeper sweetness.

• Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or vegan feta if I’m craving a savory-sweet combo.

• For a tropical twist, I toss in some cubed mango or pineapple.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The fruit will release juices over time, so I give it a gentle toss before serving again. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, and I don’t recommend freezing or reheating it.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make this salad?

I prefer to make it right before serving to preserve the texture and flavor of the fruit. However, I can prep the dressing and cut the fruit a few hours in advance, keeping everything chilled separately.

Can I use frozen fruit?

I don’t recommend using frozen fruit for this salad, as it tends to be too soft and watery once thawed. Fresh fruit gives the best texture and presentation.

What can I use instead of mint?

If I’m not a fan of mint, I like to try fresh basil for a slightly different but equally refreshing flavor.

Is there a low-sugar version?

Yes, I can omit the agave syrup entirely if my fruit is sweet enough on its own, or I can reduce the amount to taste.

Can I make this salad for a crowd?

Absolutely. I just double or triple the ingredients depending on how many people I’m serving. It’s always a hit at gatherings.

Conclusion

This Watermelon Lime Mint Salad is a simple yet stunning dish that brings together juicy fruit and a refreshing citrusy dressing in every bite. It’s the kind of salad I turn to when I want something light, colorful, and delicious — a true celebration of summer flavors.

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