Description
Watermelon Fries are a refreshing and vibrant summer snack made by cutting seedless watermelon into fry-like strips, marinated in a zesty lime juice and honey mixture with a hint of sea salt and optional chili powder for a spicy kick. Garnished with fresh mint and basil, this healthy, no-cook recipe is perfect for cooling off on warm days.
Ingredients
Scale
Watermelon Fries
- 1 small seedless watermelon
Marinade
- 1/4 cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons honey (or agave nectar for vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, fine grain
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
Garnish (Optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Wash the Watermelon: Give your watermelon a good scrub under cold running water to ensure it’s clean before cutting.
- Trim the Ends: Using a large, sharp knife, carefully slice off both ends of the watermelon to create a stable base.
- Remove the Rind: Stand the watermelon upright on one flat end. Slice downwards around the fruit to remove all the green and white rind completely.
- Inspect for White Parts: Trim away any remaining white or pale pink parts of the rind for better texture and taste.
- Cut into Slabs: Lay the rindless watermelon on its side and cut it into 1-inch thick slabs.
- Cut into Fries: Slice each slab into 1-inch wide strips, resembling french fries.
- Pat Dry: Gently pat the watermelon fries dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Combine Marinade Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey (or agave nectar), sea salt, and chili powder if using.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the marinade and adjust sweetness or saltiness to your preference.
- Place Fries in a Bowl: Put the watermelon fries in a shallow dish or a large zip-top bag for marinating.
- Pour Marinade Over Fries: Pour the marinade evenly over the fries ensuring all pieces are coated well.
- Marinate in the Refrigerator: Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour.
- Gently Toss Occasionally: Toss the fries a few times during marination to ensure uniform flavor absorption.
- Drain the Fries: Before serving, gently drain the watermelon fries from the marinade to avoid sogginess.
- Arrange on a Platter: Neatly arrange the fries on a serving platter for presentation.
- Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle chopped fresh mint and basil leaves over the top for added freshness and aroma.
- Serve with Lime Wedges: Offer lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the fries as desired.
- Enjoy Immediately: Serve and enjoy the watermelon fries fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use a ripe, seedless watermelon for the best texture and sweetness.
- Adjust the chili powder amount or omit it completely depending on your spice preference.
- Patting the watermelon fries dry before marinating helps them absorb the flavors without becoming too watery.
- Marinating time can be shortened to 30 minutes for a lighter flavor or extended to 1 hour for more intense taste.
- Serve immediately after marinating for optimal freshness; leftovers can be stored but may become soggy.
