Watermelon is such a summer staple and I’m always on the hunt for new ways to use it. This Watermelon Ceviche is a colourful vegan twist on a classic Peruvian dish and is jam packed with healthy flavour.
A bowl of ceviche is a fun appetizer to serve with some tortilla chips. It’s super refreshing and makes the perfect snack on a hot summer day. I didn’t have the proper fish for ceviche the other day, but I did have a watermelon and we got a little creative! I was SO happy with how it turned out! With a little bit of spice from the jalapeño, creaminess from the avocado, and citrus from the lime, this dish comes together in one delicious, colourful bowl of goodness.
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 [1] 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.
Nutrition Value of Watermelon
Speaking of watermelon, might I say that this fruit is a nutrition powerhouse!? Watermelon is low in calories but contains valuable nutrients like vitamin C and A. It also contains L-citrulline, an amino acid that helps our body make L-arginine, which helps our cells divide and relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation (through increasing nitric oxide production to get all geeky). best dietary sources of lycopene [2], an antioxidant linked to the prevention of prostate cancer.
Now, if you’re looking for another heat free snack or appetizer this summer I recommend trying this Creamy Cashew Cheese Spread. [3] Mind you, a person can’t go wrong with a simple guacamole (this particular version [4] from our friend Cheryl is a winner) and some Pico de Gallo [5]. If you’re not going the vegan route this Smoked Salmon Crostini [6] is always a winner! And if you’re on the hunt for the perfect drink to pair with this, look no further than this Mixed Citrus Margarita [7].
Have an amazing long weekend friends!
Tori
Watermelon Ceviche
This watermelon ceviche is perfect for entertaining and simple to make just before your guests arrive!
Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed watermelon (seeds removed)
- 1 thinly sliced jalapeño
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 - 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 cubed avocado (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
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Gently stir together all ingredients except for the avocado. Before serving top with the diced avocado and cilantro if desired and serve with tortilla chips.