If you’re dreaming of a dish that’s equal parts refreshing, delicious, and so gorgeously colorful it belongs at the center of your summer table, look no further than Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing. This dazzling, juicy salad bursts with seasonal berries, crisp watermelon cubes, and a zesty, herby dressing that ties everything together—pure sunshine in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbeatable Refreshment: Crisp watermelon and juicy berries mingle in a tangy mint lime dressing, making every bite revitalizing and hydrating.
- Stunning Visual Appeal: The vivid reds, pinks, and deep purples of the fruits turn this salad into a showstopper for picnics, parties, or family meals.
- Ridiculously Easy & Quick: Minimal prep, no cooking, and just three steps—anyone can whip up this Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing in minutes.
- A Sweet & Healthy Treat: Naturally sweetened and loaded with vitamins, this is a dessert you’ll feel good about serving (and sneaking an extra helping of!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things oh-so-simple, letting the, sweet, ripe fruit take center stage. Each ingredient has a job—bringing texture, freshness, natural sweetness, and a pop of color to make your Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing unforgettably vibrant!
- Watermelon: Choose a seedless, ripe melon for juicy bites and beautiful color—dice into bite-sized cubes for easy serving.
- Strawberries: Pick berries that are firm and deep red for the best flavor; hull and halve or quarter them for a pretty presentation.
- Cherries: Sweet cherries add a gorgeous deep hue and tartness; pit and halve them to distribute evenly through the salad.
- Raspberries: These delicate berries offer incredible fragrance and a melt-in-mouth texture—handle gently to keep them whole.
- Lime Juice: Bright and zingy, fresh lime juice lifts all the fruit flavors and makes the salad come alive.
- Maple Syrup: A splash of maple syrup brings gentle sweetness and glossy appeal—substitute honey or agave if you like!
- Mint Leaves: Fresh mint is the magic touch that transforms the salad, lending coolness and herbal aroma; chop just before using for best flavor.
Variations
The beauty of Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing is that it’s wildly flexible! Don’t hesitate to swap fruit or herbs depending on what’s fresh, what’s in season, or what’s hanging out in your fridge—make it your own signature salad.
- Add More Fruit: Blueberries, blackberries, kiwi, grapes, cantaloupe, or pineapple can join the party for extra color and excitement.
- Swap the Herb: If mint isn’t your favorite, try fresh basil, cilantro, or flat-leaf parsley for a totally new flavor twist.
- Try a Different Sweetener: Use honey, agave, or your preferred vegan sweetener instead of maple syrup—adjust to your sweetness preference.
- Citrus Vibes: Switch out lime for lemon or even a splash of orange juice for a unique zing in your dressing.
How to Make Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing
Step 1: Prep and Chop the Fruit
Start by washing all your berries under cold water and letting them dry gently on paper towels. Chop the watermelon into bite-sized, juicy cubes. Hull the strawberries and cut them in halves or quarters, slice the cherries in half and remove the pits, and keep your raspberries whole and gorgeous for that “wow” factor.
Step 2: Make the Mint Lime Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, maple syrup, and finely chopped mint. This zesty, slightly sweet dressing is what transforms the fruit into a show-stopping salad, so don’t skimp on the mint!
Step 3: Toss and Serve
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the chopped fruit. Pour the mint lime dressing over the top and use a big spoon or spatula to toss everything together with a light touch—just until coated. Serve Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing right away, preferably chilled!
Pro Tips for Making Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing
- Choose Super-Ripe Fruit: The sweeter your berries and watermelon, the less dressing you’ll need—the flavors shine brightest when fruit is at its peak.
- Don’t Over-Mix: Gently fold the fruit with the dressing to keep berries intact and the salad looking fresh and beautiful.
- Chill Before Serving: For the most refreshing experience, pop the salad in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before serving, especially on a hot day!
- Dress Right Before Serving: Add the dressing just before you serve the salad to prevent the fruit from releasing too many juices.
How to Serve Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing
Garnishes
To really make your Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing pop, add a scatter of extra chopped mint leaves, tiny edible flowers like violets, or a zesting of lime right before serving. A handful of toasted sliced almonds can also add a delightful crunch if you want a little contrast!
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a light meal. It’s also the perfect companion for quiche, brunch spreads, or as a bright, fresh side at barbecues and picnics.
Creative Ways to Present
Spoon your Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing into hollowed-out watermelon halves for a jaw-dropping centerpiece, or layer it into parfait glasses for a pretty, portable dessert. For parties, divide the salad into individual cups and garnish for grab-and-go fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you do have leftover salad, cover it tightly and store in the fridge. It will keep well for about a day, although the fruit will release more juice and soften as it sits—still delicious, just a bit juicier!
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing—the texture of the fruit changes dramatically, losing its fresh bite and turning mushy after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh for that crisp, juicy contrast!
Reheating
No reheating needed (or advised)—this salad is all about those cool, crisp textures. If it’s been refrigerated, just give it a quick toss and serve chilled straight from the fridge.
FAQs
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Can I use frozen fruit in Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing?
While it’s possible, frozen fruit will release extra water when thawed and may become mushy, so the salad won’t have the same fresh texture and visual appeal. For best results, always use fresh fruit.
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How far in advance can I make this salad?
You can prep the fruit and the dressing a few hours ahead, but wait to combine them until just before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant.
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What other herbs can I use besides mint?
Basil and cilantro both add wonderfully fresh, unexpected notes to this salad. Flat-leaf parsley is another great option for a subtle herby kick.
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Is Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing vegan?
Yes! Just be sure to use maple syrup or agave in the dressing, rather than honey, to keep it completely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ll treat yourself and your loved ones to this Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing—every bowlful is a celebration of summer’s best flavors! Whether you’re dining al fresco or simply craving something fresh and fun, this simple recipe brings a little extra sparkle to your table. Enjoy every bright, minty bite!
Print
Berry Watermelon Salad With Mint Lime Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and colorful Berry Watermelon Salad with a zesty Mint Lime Dressing. This vibrant salad is bursting with summer flavors and is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Ingredients
Watermelon Salad:
- 650 grams watermelon, cubed (about 4 cups)
- 150 grams strawberries
- 150 grams cherries
- 150 grams raspberries
Mint Lime Dressing:
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit: Wash and cut all the fruits into bite-sized pieces. Combine in a mixing bowl.
- Mint Lime Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix lime juice, maple syrup, and chopped mint.
- Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the fruits and gently toss to combine. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Check the post for detailed instructions and additional tips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 120 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 20g
- Sodium: Approx. 5mg
- Fat: Approx. 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 0.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 30g
- Fiber: Approx. 3g
- Protein: Approx. 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
