Zesty Sweet & Sour Watermelon Cucumber Delight
This refreshing Zesty Sweet & Sour Watermelon Cucumber Delight salad will not just tantalize your taste buds but also leave your guests marveling at its vibrant colors and crisp textures. With the juicy sweetness of ripe watermelon perfectly balanced by the crunch of cucumber and a tangy poppy seed dressing, this salad is the ideal accompaniment to any summer barbecue or picnic. The combination of bright green onions lends an extra layer of flavor, making it a family favorite that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cider Vinegar
1/2 cup (measured)
Water
1 cup (measured)
Sugar
1/2 cup (granulated)
Poppy Seeds
1 tablespoon (measured)
Green Onion
1/3 cup (finely chopped)
Seedless Watermelon
3 cups (cut into chunks or balled with a melon baller)
English Cucumbers
2 (peeled, seeded and sliced into small chunks)
Salt
to taste
Black Pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cider vinegar, water, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2
Add the poppy seeds and finely chopped green onions to the mixture, followed by salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
3
In a separate large serving bowl, combine the watermelon chunks and cucumber pieces. Pour the dressing over the top.
4
Gently toss the salad to ensure even coating with the dressing, being careful not to mash the watermelon.
5
For optimal flavor, serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Toss gently again before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Sweet & Sour Watermelon Cucumber Delight?
It is a refreshing summer salad that combines juicy watermelon chunks and crisp cucumber slices in a tangy poppy seed dressing.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 8 people.
What are the primary ingredients for the dressing?
The dressing is made from cider vinegar, water, sugar, poppy seeds, and finely chopped green onions.
What type of cucumber is best for this salad?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 English cucumbers, which should be peeled, seeded, and sliced into chunks.
How should the watermelon be prepared?
You should use 3 cups of seedless watermelon, either cut into chunks or balled with a melon baller.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe that involves simple mixing and tossing steps.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can cover and refrigerate the salad for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
What makes this salad 'sweet and sour'?
The combination of granulated sugar and cider vinegar creates the balanced sweet and sour flavor profile.
How do I ensure the dressing is well mixed?
Stir the cider vinegar, water, and sugar in a mixing bowl until the sugar is completely dissolved before adding other ingredients.
What is the role of green onions in this recipe?
The finely chopped green onions add an extra layer of savory flavor to the sweet and tangy dressing.
Do I need to seed the cucumbers?
Yes, the instructions recommend seeding the English cucumbers before slicing them into chunks.
How many poppy seeds are required?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds.
Can I use a melon baller for the watermelon?
Yes, using a melon baller is a great way to create uniform, decorative watermelon pieces for the salad.
Should I peel the English cucumbers?
Yes, the preparation instructions specify that the cucumbers should be peeled.
What is the best way to toss the salad?
Gently toss the salad to ensure even coating while being careful not to mash the watermelon chunks.
Is this salad suitable for a barbecue?
Absolutely, it is described as the ideal accompaniment to any summer barbecue or picnic.
What seasoning is used in this dish?
The salad is seasoned with salt and black pepper to taste.
How much cider vinegar is needed?
You will need 1/2 cup of cider vinegar for the dressing.
Can I serve this salad immediately?
Yes, the salad can be served immediately for optimal freshness or chilled for later.
Is this a healthy recipe choice?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy recipe featuring fresh fruit and vegetables.
How much sugar is in the dressing?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
What type of watermelon should I buy?
A seedless watermelon is recommended for the best eating experience.
How much water is added to the dressing?
The dressing includes 1 cup of water.
What is the preparation for the green onions?
The green onions should be finely chopped until you have 1/3 cup.
What color profile does this salad have?
The salad features vibrant red from the watermelon and bright green from the cucumbers and onions.
Do I need any special equipment?
Only basic kitchen tools are needed: a large mixing bowl, a serving bowl, and optionally a melon baller.
Is the salad gluten-free?
The ingredients listed (watermelon, cucumber, vinegar, sugar, seeds, onions) are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add more black pepper?
Yes, the recipe suggests adding salt and black pepper to your own personal taste.
What should I do before serving if the salad was refrigerated?
Give the salad a gentle toss again to redistribute the dressing that may have settled.
How much watermelon is required in total?
The recipe requires 3 cups of watermelon chunks or balls.