Vegan Watermelon Salad Recipe

This vegan watermelon salad has a satisfying balance of sweet and savory flavors. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for summertime entertaining (or whenever you can get your hands on some sweet, ripe watermelon).

What to serve with this vegan watermelon salad

If you’re looking for a tasty main course to serve with this salad, try these vegan stuffed portobello mushrooms. They’re filling, flavorful, and perfect for entertaining. And for dessert, try these mouthwatering chocolate covered dates. They’re quick and easy to make.

Main ingredients and substitutions

You can use any type of watermelon in this vegan watermelon salad, as long as it’s ripe and flavorful. I prefer to use a seedless variety of watermelon just because it’s easier to eat, but you can use whatever kind is available.

I used baby cucumbers this time but you can use any type of cucumber you like. You can either leave the skin on or remove the peel if you prefer. And if you’re not a fan of cucumbers you can substitute green bell peppers instead (or any other color bell pepper – I just think the pink watermelon looks pretty next to something green).

Olives add salty, briny flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet, juicy watermelon. I used kalamata olives this time but any good quality olive will work well. Alternatively you can substitute some chopped or crumbled vegan feta cheese instead. That will add a similar level of briny saltiness.

Some finely chopped red onion adds a savory flavor that balances the sweetness of the watermelon with the saltiness of the olives. You can substitute any other type of onion, scallions, or even fresh chives for a milder oniony flavor if you’re not a fan of raw onions.

Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing, summery layer of flavor to this watermelon salad. You can substitute fresh basil instead if you like.

The dressing for this salad is simple: just extra virgin olive oil, fresh squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. You can substitute avocado oil and fresh lime juice if you prefer.

How to make it

Start by adding the extra virgin olive oil, fresh squeezed lemon juice, and salt to a large mixing bowl, then use a whisk to mix well. 

Next you’ll add the watermelon and cucumber (both chopped into bite sized pieces), olives (cut in half), finely chopped red onion, and finely chopped fresh mint leaves to the bowl.

Gently stir to ensure everything is mixed and evenly coated with dressing, then enjoy.

Storage

Store this vegan watermelon salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

More summer recipes to try

• These chocolate banana popsicles are refreshing and delicious.
• These chocolate pineapple rings are easy to make yet impressive.
• These caramelized peaches are golden, juicy, and flavorful.
• These lemon popsicles are a refreshing and delicious dessert.

You might also like

• This chickpea flour cake is vegan, gluten free, and refined sugar free. It’s sweet, moist, and chocolaty.
• This chocolate buckwheat cake is easy to make and delicious. It’s a nutritious dessert that tastes totally decadent.
• These chocolate chip chickpea flour cookies are sweet and chewy with a hint of saltiness. They’re perfect when you’re craving a nutrient-dense treat.
• This simple lemon oregano vinaigrette is loaded with flavor from fresh lemon zest. Toss it with your favorite greens or drizzle it over grilled vegetables.