Watermelon is a quintessential summer fruit, and I’m always experimenting with creative ways to use it. This Vegan Watermelon Ceviche is a vibrant, plant-based twist on the classic Peruvian dish, packed with healthy flavours that make it the perfect appetizer for a hot summer day.
A refreshing bowl of ceviche is the perfect snack to pair with crispy tortilla chips—especially on a hot day!
It’s light, zesty, and packed with flavour. I love serving it as a poolside snack or bringing it to a summer potluck. The inspiration behind this recipe was simple: when I didn’t have the traditional fish for ceviche but had a ripe watermelon on hand, I decided to get a little creative. The result? A vibrant, colourful dish that’s sure to become your new go-to for summer gatherings!
What is Ceviche?
Traditional ceviche uses citrus juice to cure the fish in the dish, ‘cooking’ it with acid. If you’re looking for a guide to making ceviche the traditional way with fish I found this article from Bon Appétit that does a spectacular job explaining it all including the type of fish to use, how to choose a fresh fish and how long to ‘cook’ it for.
Since this particular dish requires no heat (and the watermelon isn’t as delicate as fish, which can get tough if left in the marinade for too long), this watermelon ceviche can be made in advance, just leave out the avocado and add it in just before serving!
Health Benefits of Watermelon
Let’s talk about watermelon—it’s not just delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits! This sweet, hydrating fruit is low in calories and rich in essential vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin A. It also contains L-citrulline, an amino acid that boosts circulation by helping our body produce L-arginine, which relaxes blood vessels and supports healthy cell division. Plus, watermelon is one of the best sources of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to reducing the risk of prostate cancer.
Enjoy more of my watermelon recipes, like Watermelon Feta Salad and Strawberry Watermelon Refreshers!
More Summer Snacks You’ll Love
If you’re looking for more delicious and easy-to-make appetizers for your summer get-togethers, I’ve got you covered:
Watermelon Ceviche
Watermelon Ceviche
Enjoy this Vegan Watermelon Ceviche, a fresh, healthy summer appetizer with avocado, lime, and jalapeño—perfect for hot days and easy to make!
Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed watermelon (seeds removed)
- 1/2 cubed avocado*
- 1 thinly sliced jalapeño
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 – 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta (optional)
Instructions
-
Gently stir together all ingredients including feta if using, and serve with tortilla chips.
Recipe Notes
*Leave avocado off unless enjoying right away. If making this ahead, add in the cubed avocado right before serving
I made this delish recipe tonight and added some feta cheese as well. So wonderful – I will for sure be making this again many times this summer!
Great idea! Sounds delicious!
Tasty recipe. Added some nectarines and feta cheese as well
Great idea!
Hi Tori, I’m confused about the cilantro as you have two photos with cilantro in the watermelon ceviche but none listed in the ingredients. Is that an oversight or did the cilantro not go well with the watermelon?
Thanks and love your blog!
Crystal
Hi Crystal! It is optional but you are right we should have put it in the ingredients as such thanks for catching that! I added it in to the recipe, please let me know if you make it, I always enjoy hearing the feedback!
Have a great weekend, Tori
Can I safely can/preserve this without a pressure canner?
I don’t think so unfortunately
I can’t wait to try this! Is there an oil free version of this? I’m just curious. What does the olive oil do?
Hi Jay! Similar to a salad dressing it carries flavour, and also helps with the absorption of lycopene which is an antioxidant in watermelon!
Hi Tori, this looks so delicious! Just wondering if it can be made ahead of time ?
Yes! Just leave out the avocado and add it in just before serving! xx Tori
Thank you for this recipe! I recently had watermelon ceviche at a restaurant while on vacation and wanted to recreate it at home. This recipe was spot on!
Wow thanks Jennifer! I appreciate you leaving a review. I’m thrilled you loved this recipe!