Easy Watermelon Salsa Recipe

Watermelon salsa is a sweet variation of a classic Mexican condiment made with diced watermelon, jalapeño pepper, red onion, fresh lime juice, and cilantro. In Mexico, each region has its own specialty salsa based on local ingredients and palates. Chefs do not cook salsas crudas—like pico de gallo, mango salsa, and watermelon salsa—unlike other salsas that rely on the deep flavor of charred vegetables and toasted chiles.

Compared to more rich, savory salsas, watermelon salsa has a refreshing, semi-sweet flavor that makes it the perfect gluten-free side dish for grilled BBQ dishes or Mexican delicacies.

Some popular uses of watermelon salsa include:

1. 1. Carnitas tacos: This light salsa will complement the smoky, rich flavor of pulled pork carnitas tacos.
2. 2. Fish tacos: Alongside a light crema, watermelon salsa makes a sweet, refreshing accompaniment to grilled or fried fish tacos.
3. 3. Guacamole: Top your favorite guacamole with this fresh fruit salsa for a tasty twist on this popular avocado dish.
4. 4. Grilled fish or meat: Serve watermelon salsa alongside grilled fish or meat. The salsa’s cool acidity and fresh fruity flavor add levity to salty smoke and char.
5. 5. Quesadillas: Add an unexpected, sweet twist to your quesadillas by using watermelon salsa as a topping.
6. 6. Salads: Top any salad (Mexican-inspired or otherwise) with watermelon salsa for some added sweet-and-savory notes.
7. 7. Shrimp tacos: Take your grilled shrimp tacos to the next level with the addition of this semi-sweet salsa.
8. 8. Sopes: These thick, cup-shaped masa cakes make the perfect vehicle for this refreshing salsa. Adding watermelon salsa will brighten up rich, hearty sopes.
9. 9. Tortilla chips: Serve a plate of freshly fried tortilla chips alongside this fresh fruit condiment.

Make the most of this unique watermelon dish by following these simple tips for making the best fruit salsa possible:

1. 1. Dice the fruit finely. When dicing your watermelon for this salsa, cut it into fine, bite-sized pieces that will easily fit on top of a chip or taco. Larger chunks of watermelon will be difficult to scoop up.
2. 2. Use fresh lime. Using store-bought lime juice will save time, but the taste won’t compare to the quality of fresh-squeezed lime juice.
3. 3. Experiment with additions. Adapt this simple salsa recipe to include your favorite veggies, herbs, and seasonings. If you’re not big on spice, swap the jalapeño for diced green or red bell pepper. Substitute fresh basil, fresh mint, or parsley for the cilantro. Swap the red onion or white onion for green onion. Incorporate minced garlic and additional seasonings like chili powder and cayenne pepper, or add cotija or feta cheese for some salty contrast.
4. 4. Store properly. While it’s best to enjoy this fresh salsa immediately, it will keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.